Seven rounds into the 2025 Smithy’s VFL season, Werribee is pleased to announce the signing of Emerson Jeka, who joins the club after five seasons at AFL level.

Jeka spent time with both Hawthorn and Geelong during his AFL career.

Hawthorn drafted the 198cm key position player with the club’s first pick in the 2019 Rookie Draft. Once considered a potential first-round selection, a knee injury in his draft year saw him slide to the rookie draft.

After spending his first season developing through scratch matches during the COVID-impacted 2020 campaign, Jeka earned his AFL debut in Round 7 in the 2021 season. He played four AFL games in 2021, including a two-goal performance against Fremantle in just his third appearance. He also impressed at VFL level, kicking 23 goals across the season.

Although used primarily as a forward in the VFL, Jeka was swung into defence in 2022, where he featured in three AFL games.

In 2024, Jeka joined Geelong and played 19 games for their VFL side, bringing his total VFL experience to 52 games. He averaged 18 disposals and six marks per game across the season.

A Werribee local, Jeka played all his junior football for the Altona Vikings and was drafted from the Western Jets. He returned to Altona (WFNL) at the conclusion of his AFL stint.

Football Manager Kyle Hartigan said, “It’s great to have such a quality local Wyndham person and player join our football club. We are really excited to see what he can bring.” Emerson is super talented, and he will be a great addition to our group. Having played at the highest level, he can add value in so many ways.”