Every great dynasty has its origin story. For the Geelong Cats, the 2007–2011 era was built on a foundation of shrewd drafting and development—players like Joel Selwood, Tom Hawkins, and a host of others who would become club legends. But as the 2025 AFL Season approaches, a new wave of talent is emerging from the Cattery. These rising stars aren't just future prospects; they're the players who will carry the Cats back to the AFL Grand Final and beyond.
If you're new to following the Cats, or you're a lifelong fan who wants to understand who to watch, this guide is your roadmap. We'll explore the pipeline that produces Geelong's elite talent, from the AFL Draft to the Geelong VFL, and highlight the young guns ready to make their mark. Let's dive into the future of Geelong football.
The Geelong Development Machine: How Rising Stars Are Made
The Cats have long been admired for their ability to develop players. While some clubs rely on high draft picks, Geelong consistently finds gems in the later rounds—or even as rookie selections. This isn't accidental. It's a system built on patience, culture, and a clear pathway from junior football to the AFL.
The AFL Draft: Finding Diamonds in the Rough
Geelong's recruiting team, led by Stephen Wells, has a reputation for spotting talent that others miss. In recent years, the Cats have used the AFL Draft to secure players who might not be household names on draft night but become crucial contributors. Think of players like Tom Stewart (a rookie selection who became an All-Australian) or Mark Blicavs (a steeplechaser turned midfielder). The 2025 season will see more of these hidden gems emerge.
The key is that Geelong doesn't chase the flashiest names. They look for players with high footy IQ, strong character, and a willingness to work. This philosophy has kept the Cats competitive even when they're not picking in the top ten.
The Geelong VFL: The Finishing School
Before they become stars, most Geelong players spend time in the Geelong VFL. This isn't a punishment—it's a finishing school. The VFL team, which plays at Kardinia Park, provides a direct pathway to senior selection. Players learn the Cats' game plan, build chemistry with future teammates, and develop the resilience needed for AFL football.
For example, Ollie Henry (drafted in 2021) spent significant time in the VFL before breaking into the seniors. That experience helped him become a reliable forward in the 2024 season. The VFL program is also where players like Max Holmes and Tanner Bruhn honed their craft before becoming regulars.
Key Rising Stars to Watch in 2025
The 2025 AFL Season will be a defining year for several young Cats. Here are the names you need to know.
Jhye Clark: The Midfield General
Drafted with pick 8 in the 2022 AFL Draft, Jhye Clark is the kind of player who makes everyone around him better. A hard-nosed midfielder with elite foot skills, Clark has drawn comparisons to a young Joel Selwood—not just for his tenacity, but for his leadership potential. In 2024, he played 15 games and showed flashes of brilliance. Expect him to take a massive leap in 2025, especially as Patrick Dangerfield and the midfield veterans begin to manage their workloads.
Oliver Dempsey: The Utility Ace
Oliver Dempsey is the definition of a modern footballer. At 191 cm, he can play as a midfielder, forward, or even a wingman. Drafted in 2021, Dempsey has slowly built his game in the Geelong VFL and senior side. His 2024 season was a breakout—he averaged 18 disposals and kicked 12 goals in 20 games. The Cats love versatility, and Dempsey provides exactly that. He could be the X-factor in the 2025 Finals Series.
Ted Clohesy: The Rookie Revelation
Sometimes the best stories come from the rookie list. Ted Clohesy, picked up in the 2023 rookie draft, is a prime example. A hard-working midfielder from the Geelong region, Clohesy impressed in the VFL before earning a senior debut in 2024. His work rate and defensive pressure have already won over Chris Scott. If he continues to develop, Clohesy could become a permanent fixture in the 22.
Mitch Knevitt: The Big-Bodied Midfielder
At 192 cm and 88 kg, Mitch Knevitt is built for AFL football. Drafted in 2021, he's taken time to adjust to the speed of the game, but his 2024 season showed significant growth. Knevitt played 12 games, averaging 14 disposals and showing a knack for winning contested ball. With Tom Hawkins nearing the end of his career, the Cats need midfielders who can also push forward. Knevitt fits that mold perfectly.
Shaun Mannagh: The Late Bloomer
Not every rising star is a teenager. Shaun Mannagh, drafted at age 26 in the 2023 mid-season draft, is proof that hard work pays off. A mature-age recruit from the VFL, Mannagh made an immediate impact in 2024, playing 18 games and kicking 15 goals. His story is a testament to the Cats' willingness to find talent anywhere. In 2025, he'll be a key part of the forward line rotation.
The Role of Leadership in Developing Rising Stars
One of the reasons Geelong is so successful at developing young players is the culture set by its leaders. Joel Selwood, though retired, still influences the club through his mentorship. Patrick Dangerfield and Tom Hawkins remain active in guiding the next generation.
Learning from the Best
When a young player walks into the Cattery, they're surrounded by premiership winners. Dangerfield, a Brownlow Medal winner, works closely with midfielders like Clark and Knevitt. Hawkins, the club's all-time leading goalkicker, mentors the forward line. This isn't just lip service—it's a structured program where veterans take younger teammates under their wing.
For example, Tom Hawkins has been instrumental in the development of Ollie Henry and Shannon Neale. Both players have credited Hawkins with teaching them how to read the play, lead at the ball, and handle the pressure of AFL football.
Chris Scott's Development Philosophy
Chris Scott, the Geelong coach, is known for his patience. Unlike some coaches who rush young players into the seniors, Scott prefers to let them develop in the Geelong VFL until they're ready. This approach has paid dividends. Players like Tom Stewart and Mark Blicavs spent significant time in the reserves before becoming stars.
Scott also emphasizes positional flexibility. He wants his players to be able to play multiple roles, which makes them more valuable come the AFL Finals Series. That's why you'll see a player like Max Holmes shift from wing to half-back to midfield in the same game.
The Pathway: From Local Footy to the AFL
For aspiring young footballers, the Geelong Cats offer a clear pathway. It starts with local clubs, progresses through the Geelong Falcons (the region's NAB League team), and culminates in the AFL Draft.
The Geelong Falcons Connection
The Geelong Falcons have produced some of the Cats' best players. Patrick Dangerfield (though drafted by Adelaide) is a Falcons product, as are Joel Selwood and Tom Hawkins. In recent years, the Falcons have continued to feed talent to the Cattery. Jhye Clark and Oliver Dempsey both played for the Falcons before being drafted.
The Cats maintain a strong relationship with the Falcons, ensuring that local talent is identified and developed early. This connection is a key reason why Geelong consistently drafts players who understand the club's culture.
The Importance of Kardinia Park
Kardinia Park, also known as GMHBA Stadium, is more than just a venue—it's a development hub. The Kardinia Park Redevelopment has turned the ground into a world-class facility, with state-of-the-art training spaces, recovery areas, and a dedicated VFL program. Young players spend countless hours here, honing their skills and building bonds with teammates.
The redevelopment also includes improved seating and amenities for fans, making it an even better place to watch the rising stars of tomorrow. If you're planning to attend a game, check out our stadium guide for tips on the best spots to see the action.
Practical Tips for Following the Rising Stars
Want to track the progress of Geelong's next generation? Here's how to stay informed.
Watch the VFL Games
The Geelong VFL plays most of their home games at Kardinia Park, often as curtain-raisers to AFL matches. These games are your best chance to see players like Ted Clohesy or Mitch Knevitt before they become household names. The VFL also streams games online, so you can watch from anywhere.
Follow the AFL Draft
The AFL Draft is where the future of the club is shaped. Pay attention to the Cats' picks and the players they select. Even if you don't know much about the draftees, you can learn about their strengths and weaknesses through draft analysis. The Cats often pick players who are overlooked by other clubs, so there's always a story behind each selection.
Engage with the Community
The Geelong Cats fanbase is one of the most passionate in the AFL. Join online forums, follow fan accounts on social media, and attend training sessions at Kardinia Park. You'll hear about rising stars before the mainstream media catches on.
The Future Is Bright
As the 2025 AFL Season approaches, the Geelong Cats are in a unique position. They have a core of experienced stars like Patrick Dangerfield and Tom Hawkins, but they also have a wave of young talent ready to take the reins. The rising stars we've discussed—Jhye Clark, Oliver Dempsey, Ted Clohesy, Mitch Knevitt, and Shaun Mannagh—represent the next chapter of Geelong's success.
But the pipeline doesn't stop there. The Cats will continue to use the AFL Draft, the Geelong VFL, and the Geelong Falcons to find and develop the players who will one day hoist the AFL Premiership cup. Whether you're a new fan or a seasoned supporter, there's never been a better time to follow the Cats.
So, keep an eye on the young guns. Watch them grow. And remember: every legend starts somewhere. The next Joel Selwood or Tom Hawkins might be playing in the VFL right now, waiting for their chance.
Ready to learn more about the Cats? Start with our getting started guide for new fans, or explore the history of leadership with our captains through the ages article. The future of Geelong football is in good hands—and you're invited to be part of it.
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