Cats young gun ready for Hawks showdown

Geelong defender Sam De Koning says the Cats are refreshed, focused and ready for a fierce preliminary final clash against Hawthorn under the lights at the MCG this Friday night.

Geelong booked its place in the prelim with a convincing win over Brisbane in the qualifying final two weeks ago. Hawthorn, meanwhile, has charged into September from eighth on the ladder, knocking over the Giants before eliminating minor premiers Adelaide in straight sets with a strong showing last Friday night.

In a recent sit‑down with Times News Group journalist Nathan Rivalland, De Koning reflected on the lead‑up to the biggest match of the season so far.

“We’ve had a bit of time now to reset and enjoy this moment before we get ready for Hawthorn,” he said.

“Two wins to go. Hopefully we can bring the silverware back to Geelong.”

With Reece Stanley sidelined, De Koning has stepped into more ruck duties, drawing on his background as a midfielder to adapt.

“Although I was a bit nervous and a touch rusty, I felt like I found my place,” he said.

“I’m just trying to do the job for the team and help us win.”

He said Geelong’s sustained success was built on culture, not luck.

“The club’s culture is so conducive to winning. It’s built over time with new faces, new leaders, but the same standards,” he said. (Geelong’s sustained success was built on culture)

Living in Torquay, De Koning turns to surfing and golf to switch off from the pressure of finals.

“It’s my form of meditation. It clears my mind so I can attack my footy.”

With a grand final berth on the line, De Koning and his teammates are embracing the challenge ahead.