Delisted Bomber Oskar Smartt says he is chasing a new start in Perth after signing a two-year deal with East Fremantle, taking him until the end of 2025. 

The 20-year-old was taken at pick 17 in the 2025 Mid-Season Draft and appeared in four games this year, debuting in round 18 against Richmond. 

However, Essendon opted not to offer him another contract, delisting him at the end of the season. 

He says a fresh start in Perth was made easier, as several WAFL clubs came knocking. 

“It was just starting a new chapter, going ahead. Getting out of Victoria would be a good start. The weather here isn’t too good,” he says.

“Then, having a look at all the clubs over there. It’s just all family-oriented. They just all look like good teams. So it was definitely a hard pick. 

“I was actually picking between Subiaco and East Freo. So, East Freo just made it to the top.” 

Smartt joined Essendon’s VFL program in 2024 and played 24 games at State League level, proving to be a handy inclusion for the side, where he kicked 23 goals during the stint. 

East Fremantle forward Jed Hagan announced he would head to Tasmania to play in their inaugural VFL side, opening up a gap in the forward line for Smartt to slot into.  

He says he is keen to continue playing his small forward role, with WAFL signature style of play a match made in heaven for his skill set. 

“I feel like it would be a lot better for my type of football, with bigger ovals and all,” he said. 

“The ovals here are pretty small, so it’d be good for my small forward and mid role if I were to play the mid in the East Freo, but I think it would suit my football just a lot better over there.” 

Although Smartt has four games of AFL under his belt, he admits he could have used those opportunities better.

While Smartt has committed to East Fremantle for the next two years, he says he hasn’t taken his sights off another opportunity at the AFL level. 

“It was a very good opportunity, but it wasn’t taken the best way possible,” he says. 

“I missed a few goals and all that kind of stuff. It was definitely the biggest eye-opener for me, like it was a dream come true. 

“It was just amazing to be honest, and all I want to do is just get back out there and just have another crack.”

IMAGE: Essendon FC