It took plenty of persistence and determination over a number of years, but when his opportunity presented itself, Shannon Neale grasped it with both hands.

2024 saw the key forward rewarded for his strong VFL form over an extended period, earning his place at the top level and playing 15 AFL games for the year. 

Neale certainly looked comfortable in the Cats forward line, hitting the scoreboard in 14 consecutive games and finishing with 23 goals for the season. 

Three contested marks in the Qualifying Final win over Port Adelaide showcased his incredible aerial ability, always having a presence in contests around Geelong's forward line. 

Looking to harness the momentum from last year, Neale outlined his goals for the exciting 2025 campaign that lies ahead. 

"I got some good exposure last year, both continuity throughout the season but also playing my first finals campaign which was really exciting," Neale said. 

"I am hoping to take some of that experience into this year, hopefully put together a full season which is the main aim.

"I am looking forward to playing a bit more, then building on what I have put in the bank over the past few years.

"Taking what I can from the guys around me, then making it my own and playing a bit more of a role."

Neale's prowess in front of the big sticks further added to a dominant year from the Cats forward line, which saw seven different players finish the season with over 20 goals. 

Leading the front once again was spearhead, Jeremy Cameron who finished with 64 goals in 2024, his third highest total across 13 seasons in the AFL. 

In what should be an exciting combination for years to come, Neale and Cameron looked to compliment each other with their dynamic nature and athletic ability. 

Neale spoke about the impact Cameron has had on his game, and what he has been able to learn from the superstar forward over the past few seasons. 

"He has been unreal," Neale said. 

"He is a bit more of a natural player than some others, he pulls out some tricks that not many of us have seen before. It is hard to learn those things from someone who is naturally gifted, but the way he sees the game and from a physical point of view we are quite similar in some ways.

"I try to tap into that resource as much as I can, he has been great. He is fun to learn off, he always has a smile on his face and is always trying to make the game fun and I am all for that.

"As much as it is just a game, it is a game in a fun way so that is something that he does really well."