Cats load up in AFL Draft

GEELONG has added seven new faces to its list for the 2025 season after using all of its selections in the Telstra AFL Draft and Rookie Draft.

The Cats first selection in last week’s AFL draft came at pick 44, with the club choosing to take Norwood SANFL key forward Jay Polkinghorne.

Polkinghorne is known for his incredible set of hands, a big frame and was regarded as one of the most reliable set-shot goal kickers in the draft class.

With pick 52, Geelong chose to go big, securing towering ruckman Jacob Molier.

The Sturt SANFL product ranked fifth at the national combine over the 20-metre sprint, while also performing strongly in the agility test.

Impressive defender Lennox Hoffman was secured with the Cats pick 66 selection.

The Sandringham Dragons youngster was tied to St Kilda, however the Saints did not match the bid from the Cats.

Hoffman possesses speed, brilliant aerial ability and went at nearly 80 per cent efficiency by foot during his Dragons season.

With its last selection, Geelong selected powerful forward Keighton Matofai Forbes from the Western Jets.

Matofai-Forbes is touted as an impressive player in one on one contests and uses his power and strength to often outmuscle opponents.

Geelong recruiting manager Stephen Wells said he was delighted with the club’s mix of players.

“As each of our selections came, it presented us with a great opportunity to draft different types of players that we thought would be a great fit for our football club.

“In the end we were able to pick players who we think deserve an opportunity at AFL level, and we will get to work with right away to develop them and integrate them into our football program.”

Geelong also added Falcons midfielder Xavier Ivisic, Barwon Heads product Joe Pike and Patrick Retscheko in the rookie draft.

Local pair Lachie Jaques and River Stevens have also made their AFL dreams come true and are heading to the Western Bulldogs and North Melbourne respectively.