Harwood to Lead PFL Men’s Representative Side in 2026
29 Apr, 2026
The Perth Football League is pleased to announce the reappointment of Jackson Harwood as Men’s Representative Coach for 2026, following a historic state campaign last season.
Harwood guided the PFL Men’s State Team to a landmark six-point victory over the VAFA on Victorian soil in 2025, marking the first win of its kind for the League’s Open Age men’s side.
He will now lead the PFL in its upcoming clash against Country Football WA on June 19, as the League looks to build on that breakthrough result.
Harwood said the opportunity to go around again is one he is both proud of and excited by.
“It’s exciting to be going around again. It’s a strong competition, so to be leading that is a huge honour,” Harwood said.
The 2026 clash presents a different challenge, with Country Football WA boasting a deep talent pool drawn from regional competitions.
“It’s hard to get a full read on what their list looks like until closer to the game, but there are so many good players running around who’ve come from WAFL or strong amateur programs,” he said.
While the opposition may differ, Harwood believes the key to success will once again lie in connection and cohesion, a hallmark of last year’s side.
“In WA, a lot of these players have played against each other for years. They know each other, they’ve come through the same systems, and that familiarity really helps build connection quickly,” he said.
With a degree of turnover expected, Harwood is focused on blending continuity with fresh energy.
“There’ll be a bit of a changing of the guard, but what worked well last year was having a core group who had been through the program before and could drive those standards,” he said.
Despite last year’s success, Harwood remains focused on evolving the program.
“A lot comes down to who’s available and who can commit, but we felt we got it pretty right last year,” he said.
“It’s another opportunity to test yourself and put together the strongest side available against quality opposition.”
Harwood, who is also Head Coach of Kingsway, led the club to an A Grade premiership in 2024 and a preliminary final appearance in 2025.
The PFL’s representative clash against Country Football WA will take place on June 19 at HIF Stadium, with further details to be confirmed.
