Dahlhaus will be joined by Gary Rohan, who arrives from Sydney. The forward spent the summer months playing golf, fishing and spending time with his family, and has admitted that he feels refreshed and raring to go. The speedster told the media that he “can’t wait to pull on the hoops and run out with the boys”. He’s enjoyed a solid pre-season and has looked sharp during recent hitouts.
The pair look likely to be joined by the vastly experienced Gary Ablett, who may be omitted from the midfield and pushed further forward this campaign. The 34-year-old admitted that coach Chris Scott spoke candidly about his position ahead of the upcoming season, and the pair have come to the conclusion that he is likely to be far more effective as a forward.
There are plenty of options available for Geelong as they head towards their opening fixture on March 22. The Cats will get the campaign underway against Collingwood, and will go into the game as underdogs. They have plenty of competition for places, with the likes of Jamaine Jones, James Parsons and Nakia Cockatoo all pushing for minutes this season. There is strength in depth at the club this year, and the new additions should help Geelong adopt a plan B during tough games. The new-look forward-line, which is likely to include Gary Ablett, could help secure their long-awaited return to the AFL Grand Final in 2019.