Rapid rise earns Humphries Origin nod

GEELONG defender Lawson Humphries will represent his home state in next year’s much-anticipated AFL Origin match, after being named in Western Australia’s squad on Thursday.

His selection recognises a rapid rise at AFL level, with the 22-year-old now an established part of Geelong’s backline after just 36 games.

He becomes the first Cat selected in the Western Australia squad and will line up alongside stars including the Blues’ Patrick Cripps, Fremantle’s Shai Bolton and the Swans’ Chad Warner.

Humphries, who grew up in Western Australia, was selected by Geelong taken with pick 63 in the 2023 draft, after playing for Wickham Wolves and Swan Districts in his junior career.

He has missed just one match since his 2024 debut, with his composure off half-back, elite skills on both feet and classy decision-making proving critical in the Cats’ push to the grand final.

The state honour follows last week’s announcement that Humphries had re-signed with Geelong, committing to the club until at least the end of the 2028 season.

Captain Patrick Dangerfield was also announced as a member of the Victorian squad on Thursday, bringing the Cats’ tally to five.

He joins Cats teammates Jeremy Cameron, Max Holmes and Tom Stewart, with senior coach Chris Scott appointed to lead the Victorian side.

The Origin will return on Saturday, February 14, with the clash between Victoria and Western Australia set to take place at Optus Stadium.