The incredible, rapid rise of Lawson Humphries is set to reach new heights this weekend when the young gun makes his AFL debut on Saturday night against Essendon.  

In the space of 12 months, Humphries has moved from a Reserves premiership in the WAFL to the Cats VFL and will now run out on Saturday night for his AFL debut at the MCG.  

Drafted from the Wickham Wolves/Swan Districts with pick 63 in the 2023 National draft, his selection personified a story of persistence for Humphries, who went undrafted twice before being selected by the Cats. 

Humphries has slotted seamlessly into the VFL Cats backline, averaging 22 possessions and five marks per game across his 11 games this season.  

Saturday night will see Lawson become the 1115th player for the Geelong Football Club, with the night to be extra special with 35 family members and friends expected in the crowd.  

On top of this, he will also run out with the Wickham Wolves crest on his jumper, with the Cats wearing a commemorative guernsey for Country Round that pays homage to the local football clubs that the Club’s players have come from.  

Humphries spoke with Cats media earlier this year, touching on his transition from Western Australia to Geelong and how he has settled in at the club.  

"I really love Geelong,” Humphries said. 

“I was a country kid growing up, so I feel like living outside a major city is epic and I am loving it. 

“I have learned a lot from Zach Guthrie. 

“Probably for me, my weakness at times is my physicality and defensive work which as a defender isn't the greatest thing. 

“Zach has really taken me under his wing, and helped me with things like my positioning and general defensive work. 

“From that my offense can really flow, Zach has been a lot of help for me and it's been really helpful."  

Humphries’ VFL form has included nine straight games where he collected 20 disposals or more, while showing a strong ability to distribute the footy off half back on his left and right foot.  

The top moment of his year came in the final quarter of the VFL clash against Sydney, with Humphries producing a number of match-winning moments, including a late goal from outside 50.  

Humphries will make his AFL debut this Saturday night, when the Cats take on the Bombers in the traditional Country Game at the MCG.