Sam Menegola is one of the form players of the competition and is enjoying the stability of focusing on a specific role each week.
He has thrived playing on the wing this season and is averaging 22 disposals and nearly a goal per game.
“I am enjoying the stability of playing in one position every week,” Menegola said.
“I feel like if things changed and I needed to go somewhere else I would do that, but I am enjoying the stability of having a role that I have had a chance to really learn and get a really good hold on, and just go out every week and do that so that has been a positive.”
Menegola was instrumental in Geelong’s most recent win against Essendon, receiving 10 coaches’ votes for his 30 disposal and two-goal performance.
He is set to play an important part again this week as he looks to help counteract Richmond’s quick ball movement.
“I think transition is a really important part of the modern game and that’s a really big part of playing the wing role.
“Teams like Richmond and teams that we have played liked St Kilda and even Port Adelaide, they can attack really quickly, so that support from a transition sense becomes really important.”
The 28-year-old has taken his game to another level this season and is benefitting from the guidance of Chris Scott, Nigel Lappin, Shaun Grigg and Matthew Knights.
According to Champion Data, Menegola is rated as elite for intercept possessions, metres gained, intercept marks and marks inside 50 – highlighting his ability to influence the game across the ground.
“Scotty has always been really good with me in the way he communicates what he wants, but Nige and Shaun Grigg is another one that has been really helpful considering how successful he was in that role. Then being a part of the midfield group, you are always getting some really strong guidance from Knights as well.
“I feel that I am lucky that I have three or four really good football heads giving bits and pieces and they work well together, so you’re getting a consistent message but different bits from different guys.
“I have been really well supported in that role.”
Geelong's Round 17 blockbuster against Richmond on Friday night will be televised on Chanel Seven with the first bounce at 7.50pm AEST.
