Shaun Mannagh has taken no time adapting to his new environment in the AFL.  

With the ability to apply pressure and the knack for kicking goals, Mannagh has been a big part of Geelong’s recent form winning six of their last seven games. 

Over the past six weeks, Champion Data has rated Mannagh as one of the top 25 players in the competition (AFL Player Ratings) while ranking ‘above average’ in disposals, score assists and goals.  

17:21

Meg McDonald & Shaun Mannagh Press Conference

AFLW Captain Meg McDonald and AFL forward Shaun Mannagh spoke with the media. Presented by Ford.

Manangh said his first season with the Cats has been interesting, learning a new system and what it takes to make the next step in AFL football.   

“It was challenging at first to be fair, but I have really enjoyed the challenge this year,” Mannagh said.  

“I am playing a more traditional small forward role, applying that pressure up forward to get some more forward turnovers and finishing with a few more goals for the team.  

“I have thoroughly enjoyed it, obviously it is a different team with a different strategy.  

“I am fully invested in what I am doing here, as long as I am contributing to the team in some way then I am more than happy.” 

01:28

Flashpoint Round 22 | Defensive Moments Come Up Clutch

Some desperate defensive moments from Miers, Stengle, Henry and Close paved the way for Geelong's match winner on the weekend.

Mannagh was picked up as a mature-aged recruit in the 2023 draft, after dominating at VFL level for several years.  

The 27-year-old debuted for the Cats straight away in 2024, playing the opening two games of the season before working on his craft in the VFL and earning a recall in Round 17.  

Mannagh spoke about his journey from Werribee to Geelong, developing in his new role and earning a recall to the AFL side.  

“I would be lying if I said it wasn't frustrating, but at the same time I understood why it was happening,” Mannagh said.  

“I needed to go back and learn the role properly at VFL level before I could contribute well enough at AFL level.  

“I am still a first-year player, not many first-year players get to play in round one so I was very fortunate and grateful to get that opportunity early.  

“To be back in the team now I am just trying to make sure that every post is a winner.”  

Mannagh and the Cats head to Marvel Stadium on Saturday night for a clash against St Kilda, with the opening bounce at 7.30 pm.  

Tickets for the Round 23 clash can be found here.