Geelong Cats defender Connor O'Sullivan spoke with SEN’s Dwayne’s World on Tuesday following his Round Two Rising Star nomination, reflecting on his journey so far, his current role in the team, and the incredible support he’s received since joining the Cats.

O'Sullivan is a member of a core group of emerging talents currently playing in Geelong's 23 and is quickly proving himself to be a key figure in the club’s defensive unit.

While O'Sullivan’s versatility on the field has seen him spend time both in the forward line and the backline in his junior career, it is defence where he sees himself for the time being. 

"Look, right now I am happy down back. We have a great group that I’m really enjoying playing with. I did play senior footy at my local club in the forward line and I don’t mind a goal or two so i might sneak down there occasionally, but right now I’m loving working alongside the backs group," O'Sullivan told SEN Dwayne's World. 

O'Sullivan is also acutely aware of the legacy he’s carrying wearing the No. 14 jersey.

"It’s a massive privilege, and a lot of history in the number 14. It’s an honour and a great privilege and the club has been amazing in encouraging me to create my own history in it."

O'Sullivan has benefited greatly from the wisdom and guidance of the previous holder of the number 14, 2022 Premiership Captain Joel Selwood, touching on his interaction with Joel since being drafted to the Cats. 

"I’ve spoken to Joel a fair bit post draft night, and he did make an occasional few visits to make sure my locker was clean in the first few weeks, which was awesome. He also sent me congratulations this week with the nomination. He’s a well-respected person amongst the AFL community, and it’s been an honour to be able to chat to him semi-regularly."

As a tall, lean athlete in his draft year, O'Sullivan has focused on developing his strength and contested ability — areas that have taken longer to evolve for players of his build. With the right support, he’s built confidence in his body and skillset.

"A few things as a tall player, the strength and size take a bit longer to develop. Pre draft I was lucky to have a few very smart people in the area (Albury) who could help me achieve my goals.

"The biggest thing was it gave me more confidence with my body. I was pretty lean and always prided myself on being a good runner but couldn’t hold myself in contested situations. Being able to use that and become a bit quicker off the mark was huge in building my confidence as a player."

With Albury far from the Surf Coast, O'Sullivan has embraced the coastal lifestyle in Geelong since being drafted, referencing Geelong as a "bigger Albury". 

"I’ve never been much a surf coast kid and never lived on the beach, but I’ve been loving getting down there and into the water. Dad likes to bring down the jet ski occasionally, which has been unreal.