Five young Cats sign contract extensions

GEELONG has re-signed a core group of five youngsters in a huge win for the side long-term.

The new contracts include Toby Conway until 2025, Max Holmes and Mark O’Connor through to 2024, and Ollie Dempsey and Shannon Neale until the end of next season.

Holmes is quickly establishing himself in the Cats’ best 22, having played 11 games this year.

O’Connor has played 79 games for Geelong in a number of roles since being brought to the club from Ireland.

Conway, who signed the longest extension, is yet to debut. The 205-centremeatre-tall ruckman was selected with pick 24 in the 2021 National Draft.

2021 rookie draftee Dempsey has played two games this season, while Neale has played the one since being selected in the 2020 National Draft.

– BY NIC NEGREPONTIS/ SEN