With the 2026 AFL season fast approaching, Geelong’s preparations are beginning to sharpen, and optimism is quietly building at the club. Just 45 days out from their Opening Round clash against Gold Coast, the Cats are deep into a demanding pre-season, determined to set the tone early after falling short at the final hurdle last year.
Geelong General Manager of Football Andrew Mackie has been encouraged by how the playing group has responded to the disappointment of 2025. While the way last season ended still lingers, Mackie believes the squad has returned with renewed focus and energy, showing strong signs that the lessons learned are being put to good use. According to him, the early indicators suggest the group is approaching the new campaign with purpose and belief.
Mackie explained that the pre-season has been about both hard work and evolution. The club has embraced a period of exploration, looking for ways to improve individually and collectively while also hitting key physical benchmarks. He highlighted the hunger within the group to refine their game, adapt where needed, and continue pushing standards higher without taking anything for granted.
The Cats remain firmly in the premiership conversation following another strong year, reaching finals for the 17th time in 19 seasons and again progressing deep into September. That consistency, combined with the arrival of new faces over the off-season, has injected fresh energy into the squad as they look to remain among the competition’s elite in 2026.
Mackie also praised the environment around the club, pointing to the commitment of both players and staff. He noted that while the club understands how fortunate it is to be in such a strong position, there is a clear determination to keep improving. With a driven playing group and a positive culture in place, Geelong enters the new season confident in its direction, even as it acknowledges that success must be earned all over again.
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