Much like his marking prowess, Shannon Neale has taken his opportunity with both hands in 2024 following another influential performance against Port Adelaide on Thursday.
Looking dangerous every time the ball entered his vicinity, Neale finished the night with nine marks (three contested) and two goals to help lead the Cats to a big Qualifying Final win.
Thursday capped an impressive stretch from the big key forward, who has kicked a goal in each of his last 15 AFL games while kicking multiple majors on nine occasions.
Speaking with ABC Grandstand following the win over Port Adelaide, Neale said learning from the great forwards at Geelong has helped his development this season.
“I have had to develop, there is no hiding that,” Neale said.
“I came in and knew I had a lot of work to do and I still have a lot of work to do, it is about tapping into those resources that I have. I am lucky to have Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins, even our small forwards I can learn a lot from.
“I wouldn't have it any other way. I like working hard for what I get, it is certainly not a given and I still have to work for it.”
Neale was selected by the Cats in the 2020 National draft, playing a handful of games across 2022 and 2023 before finding some continuity this year.
Geelong have continued their incredible run of sustained success this year, progressing to a Preliminary Final for the 13th time in the last 18 seasons.
Neale said the culture built inside the walls at GMHBA Stadium, has helped the Cats to return to the top of the table in 2024.
“I think we just embrace each other, everyone is different, everyone prepares differently, the week to week process for everyone is different,” Neale said.
“Being a bit of an older group there is a lot of families around, so the Club allows people to spend time with their families and ultimately it makes everyone happier.
“It is an environment where people can embrace themselves, spend a lot of time away from footy and enjoy the things that make them who they are.
“It is about the balance of on field and off field, I think Geelong has got it really good and I am lucky to land here.”
