A massive preseason and a fresh outlook are key reasons behind Ollie Dempsey’s rapid rise, with the young star putting together another impressive performance against Hawthorn.  
 
Dempsey has become a mainstay in the Geelong line-up playing every match this season and averaging 18 disposals per game.  
 
The clash against Hawthorn saw another impressive display from the young gun, collecting 23 disposals and five score involvements.  
 
Dempsey credited the coaching staff and an important offseason as big reasons why he is enjoying his football so much, helping him to grow and improve throughout the year.  

 
"I love smiling and having fun with the team,” Dempsey said.  
 
“There aren’t many things that are more fun than playing footy on the weekends, I know how blessed I am to have that opportunity and to do this as my job.  
 
"I trusted in the people we have at the club and all the staff, I had a big offseason working hard on my running and getting my body right. 
 
“I’m trying to work hard, I put on a bit of size and I am just trying to grow in confidence every week.  
 
“I am happy with the opportunity that the coaches have given me and the trust they have in me.”  

 
Starting the season as a small forward, Dempsey quickly found his niche on the wing utilising his pace and work rate to have a big impact on contests.  
 
The 21-year-old has amassed 23 disposals or more in five of his last seven games, while also pushing forward to boot 13 goals from his 16 games this season.  
 
Dempsey noted several players that he has learned from along the way, helping to get him ready to take his game to new heights in 2024.
  
"The small forward group, Gryan Miers and Brad Close who have been doing it for a few years now, they have been really good for me,” Dempsey said.  
 
“All my preseason I was training as a forward and then got up to the wing where Mark Blicavs has been really good for me.  
 
“He is very good with the way he talks about the role, encouraging me to back my instincts and playing freely.  
 
“Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins have been really good, they are always around the club helping with goalkicking and whatever you need really.  
 
“There are a lot of guys here that have helped me.” 
 
Geelong and the Pies will do battle this Friday night at the MCG, with the first bounce at 7.30pm AEST. Cats fans can still become a member today at membership.geelongcats.com.au.