When third-year winger Mitch Knevitt looks around the Cats locker room, he’s spoilt for choice when it comes to the calibre of player he can speak to about building his game. 

Knevitt arrived at GMHBA Stadium ahead of the 2022 season, and his willingness to put in what Joel Selwood used to call the ‘lonely hours’ working on this craft, was clear early.

So, when it’s come to teachers and mentors, the 21-year-old hasn’t been one to waste an opportunity.

“I can go to anyone,” he told geelongcats.com.au this week.

“If I want to work on my marking, [I’ll talk] to Tom Stewart, for contests, there's Pat (Dangerfield), for my wing role, I can talk to Zach Tuohy, or whoever really.  There's a wide variety of players I can talk to about each skill, which is good.” 

As a tall (193cm) midfielder, it’s the overhead marking that he said he wants to make his ‘main weapon’ come the new season. 

The Grovedale product played eight games in his second season after debuting against GWS in Round 8, 2022 at Manuka Oval.

His standout performance came against the Western Bulldogs in a Round 12 win at Marvel Stadium where he put up career high numbers in disposals (17), tackles (seven) and inside 50s (five).

With a full preseason now almost under this belt for the first time in his career, Knevitt is ready to attack the 2024 season head on. 

“I've had a full pre season which, in your first two years is a bit different, you’re sort of held out a little bit, but yeah, full pres eason which I've gotten through pretty well,” he said.   

“I definitely learned a lot last season. Playing a few more games in the seniors and just learning my role a bit more and what it's like playing in the AFL side rather than in the VFL. 

“I definitely took a lot out of it and hopefully I can build on that this year.”