West Coast Eagles forward Archer Reid has joined another team he's passionate about, signing on as RSPCA WA's newest ambassador.
The young Eagle will use his growing profile to help shine a light on animal welfare issues and support RSPCA WA's work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming vulnerable animals across Western Australia.
Reid joins fellow RSPCA WA ambassadors West Coast Eagles AFLW player Courtney Rowley, West Coast Fever assistant coach Sharni Layton, Channel 10's Beau Pearson, and Nova 93.7's Nat Locke.
RSPCA WA spokesperson Lou Rowe said Archer was a natural fit for the ambassador team.
"Archer is part of an exciting new generation at the Eagles and we're delighted he's chosen to use his profile to help animals who desperately need someone in their corner," Ms Rowe said.
"Our ambassadors help us reach new audiences and generate support for the thousands of animals who need us every year, and we're really looking forward to having Archer on board."
Reid said dogs were always an important part of his family while he was growing up, making the decision to become an RSPCA WA ambassador an easy one.
"I've always loved animals, so when the opportunity came up to support RSPCA WA and the work they do, it was an easy yes," he said.
"I'm looking forward to getting involved and hopefully helping more people understand what goes into giving animals who've had a tough start a second chance."
One of Reid's first priorities will be supporting RSPCA WA's Give to Get Them Home campaign in October – the charity's biggest fundraising day of the year, when donations are doubled thanks to matched giving partners.
Reid said he hoped WA businesses would consider coming on board as matched givers.
"The Eagles are incredibly lucky to have so many WA businesses and people who get behind the club and make a real difference," he said.
"I'd love to see some of that same generosity thrown behind RSPCA WA and the animals they care for.
"Becoming a matched giver means you're not just making your own contribution – you're encouraging thousands of other West Australians to give because they know their donation will go twice as far."
Ms Rowe said matched givers were critical to the campaign's success.
"Give to Get Them Home is our single biggest donation day of the year with an ambitious target of $400,000 this year - that simply wouldn't be possible
without businesses and individuals willing to put up those matching funds," she said.
"We'd love Archer's call to inspire some new members of WA's business community to join us this October."
More details are available by calling RSPCA WA on 9209 9300 or emailing
Reid took some time out from training this week to visit the current residents at the RSPCA in Malaga, and to learn more about the organisation's animal welfare work.
Ms Rowe said he clearly had a soft spot for all animals, enjoying time spent with Bentley the rabbit, English Staffy Sadie, Mochi the Maltese x Shih Tzu, and nine-week-old kitten Springbok.
