Exciting young ruckman, Toby Conway made his successful AFL debut on Saturday night with a strong performance against the Western Bulldogs.

Competing against one of the top ruckman in the league in Tim English, the 20 year old impressed with a game high 24 hit-outs while also laying three tackles and collecting two clearances in just 68% of game time. 

Following an injury-impacted early part of the 2023 season, the big ruck returned in round 17 through the VFL and quickly hit his straps, collecting 21 disposals against GWS before earning his AFL debut in round 24.

Conway said he was honoured to wear the blue and white hoops at the top level for the first time, excited about what lies ahead for Geelong’s young core.

“It's a big privilege to pull on the hoops for the first time,” Conway told Cats media. 

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“Ted (Clohesy) and I did the presentation together which was a really special moment, I saw how much it meant to the family which spurred me on throughout the game. 

"It was a theme for the day amongst the young boys. Family means the world to me and it was a pretty special moment to have them all there." 

Plucked out of the Geelong Falcons with pick 24 of the 2021 draft, Conway has has his challenges since joining the Cattery playing just 13 games at VFL level across the past two seasons. 

Despite being out of finals contention, the Cats faithful packed out GMHBA Stadium on Saturday night, with Conway noting how amazing the support was for the young players. 

"Our fans mean everything to us,” Conway said. 

“It was my first game playing in front of those sort of numbers, even though our season was over we thought it was a great experience for our young boys and it was great that the fans showed faith in us as well. 

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Conway And Clohesy Receive Their Hoops

Watch as Toby Conway and Ted Clohesy receive their first jumpers before their debut against the Dogs.

"It was really important for us young boys to know that they are all behind us heading into the future, it will be really good to see that again next season." 

Legendary Cats ruckman, Brad Ottens has mentored Conway for a number of years and presented the prodigy with his guernsey prior to the round 24 clash. 

"I am absolutely rapt to be handing this over to you tonight,” Ottens said.

“I think it's clear that in your short time here, you have earned the love and respect of everyone purely because you are a fantastic young man. 

You are a great person and you have a great attitude not only towards your footy, but towards life. 

We are all so proud of you, and I can't wait to see you go and do your thing."