From AFL experience to local footy stars, Geelong's VFL list has some exciting new faces ready to roll in the 2023 Smithy's Season.

Former Essendon utility Brayden Ham headlines the inclusions, following 45 games across four seasons with the Bombers.

“Brayden Ham is a really positive signing and brings AFL experience,” Geelong VFL coach Mark Corrigan said.

“His training standards and obviously his flexibility to play multiple roles (are great assets), but his AFL experience and that consistency of performance are key to what he will bring to the program, and he’s a great person, too.”

Tynan Smith has also crossed to Geelong, having previously played with Northern Bullants and Essendon in the VFL.

“He’s played a lot of VFL footy for the Bullants; he’s a competitor, and he brings a lot of consistency for us, in what is a relatively young and experienced group, so that will be really important for us,” Corrigan said.

Bailey Van de Heuvel, brother of former AFLW Cat Sophie Van de Heuvel, has joined the Cats after two seasons with Footscray, and shapes as a strong key defender for the side with good aerial skills and a calm head.

Two-time Geelong Football League Mathieson Medallist Harry Benson has also signed on after dominating at local level, with Corrigan hopeful the 23-year-old can take his game to new heights in the VFL program.

Reigning Cats best and fairest Jye Chalcraft looks poised for another big year, while new captain Angus Byrne and vice-captains Daniel Capiron and Tom Feely are ready and raring to lead the Cats into the new season.

“The leaders are really important for the progress and development of the younger boys to make them feel comfortable and develop a sense of belonging really quickly,” Corrigan said.

Marcus Herbert has moved down back for the 2023 season and has already shown he could take his game further this season, with his agility, ball movement skills and great awareness in traffic.

Corrigan also highlighted the “unique skill set” of Geelong West Giants’ Tanner Lewis, who stands at 195cm and has great running ability.

“He has played inside-mid locally in the GFL, which is rare, so his capacity to play as a key position player, but then play a bit of back-up ruck and also maybe as a mid (is a rare combination),” Corrigan said.

“I think we’ll keep building out his footy understanding and footy IQ, and who knows where he can take his capacity in his physical attributes.”

The Cats begin their 2023 VFL campaign this Friday night against Carlton. First bounce is at 7.05pm at Ikon Park.

2023 Extended VFL Squad