Several late bloomers are flourishing after making an immediate impact with the Geelong Cats, who are one win away from a grand final appearance. Shaun Mannagh, the 27-year-old rookie who was playing in the VFL last year, had 13 score involvements and kicked three goals against Port Adelaide in the first week of the finals. The small forward is the Cats' latest mature-age recruit to prove his worth on the biggest stage, following players like Tim Kelly, Tom Atkins, Tom Stewart, and James Podsiadly.
Mannagh credits the environment at Geelong for allowing players to flourish regardless of age. He highlights the work of coach Chris Scott, CEO Steve Hocking, and veteran recruitment manager Stephen Wells, who has spent four decades at the club. Before joining Geelong, Mannagh played for Werribee in last year's VFL grand final, where he won best on ground in a losing side, and had stints with Richmond's VFL team, in Darwin, and in the Ovens & Murray League.
Midfielder Tom Atkins, another mature-age recruit who debuted in his 20s, says the club is set up to develop late bloomers, especially those from their VFL affiliate. Atkins, who has won the Cats' best clubman award the past two years, recalls having access to AFL assistant coach Nigel Lappin during his VFL days, which was invaluable for his development.
After playing two games early in the season, Mannagh spent much of the year out of the seniors but returned in round 17 and has not missed a match since, kicking 12 goals in his past six appearances. The Cats have rediscovered their best form after a mid-season slump, and their late-season momentum has coincided with the absence of 36-year-old full forward Tom Hawkins, who is rehabbing a foot injury.
Forward Jeremy Cameron praised Hawkins' efforts to return, noting that 22-year-old Shannon Neale has provided a more mobile tall option in his absence. Cameron says the remodelled lineup has proven effective, with a mix of players who play huge roles inside the club.
