The fact not a single session of the Cats’ pre-season has been held on the team’s home deck means the playing group is closer than ever, according to football boss Steve Hocking.
Simonds Stadium has been utilised by other events throughout the summer – such as the Big Bash and A-League – leaving the ground’s regular tenants to seek alternative training venues.
Speaking to 1116 SEN, Hocking said the constant sea change has been beneficial to a group with so many new faces.
“It’s been interesting, because 25% of the list is new we sort of sat at the start of pre-season trying to work out ways to try and get the group to come together and bond,” Hocking told SEN.
“Due to the displacement we’ve had down here, it’s organically happened.”
“We’ve been sending them to different parts of Geelong and they’re having to jump into cars together and so forth.”
“They haven’t really been able to get into a routine, which has been a healthy thing.”
Hocking also addressed how the many new faces are fitting in and what they’ve brought to the Cattery so far.
“They’ve settled in really well,” he said.
“We’re pleased with the leadership that those guys have brought in, even someone like Zac Smith it’s interesting to see.”
“I was heading out to Lara around 8am Sunday morning and we were due back Monday the 4th and it's Sunday the 3rd at 8am and he’s running laps up at a local oval I pass.”
“That’s the commitment that we’re getting from that standard of player. At 25 they understand that the move they’ve made is really important to them.”
“Having those different voices in meetings has really added to our leadership and also helping grow the program.”
“Lachie Henderson he’s a really vocal guy, he hasn’t missed a session since he’s been here, which is a real credit to him.”
“Patrick (Dangerfield) he’s a really happy person, he’s living in the region, he’s at a club he really wants to play at.”
“I think contentment is what I see with him.”
The Cats’ general manager of football also noted Daniel Menzel’s pre-season and the fact he’s yet to miss a beat.
“It’s really pleasing for Dan, the biggest smile is for him because he’s completing all the sessions,” he said.
“Just the resilience that the guy has shown is incredible.”
