A reliable ruckman across 10 seasons, Stanley has been a valuable part of the Geelong Football Club over the past decade while becoming a premiership player in 2022.
Beginning his career at St Kilda in 2009, Stanley spent six years with the Saints playing 58 games before joining Geelong via trade at the end of the 2014 season.
Stanley took no time establishing himself in the Cats line-up, making his club debut in Round 2 of the 2015 season against Fremantle.
After playing a handful of games in his first season, Stanley cemented his spot in the ruck during the 2016 season where he played 21 games, helping the Cats get to a Preliminary Final.
Perhaps his best season might have been in 2022, when Stanley put together a strong campaign as the Cats went on a 16-game winning streak to win the premiership.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 24: Rhys Stanley of the Cats celebrates with the premiership cup during the 2022 Toyota AFL Grand Final match between the Geelong Cats and the Sydney Swans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 24, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos)
Stanley had a strong contribution on Grand Final day, collecting 16 disposals and 27 hit-outs to help Geelong secure the flag.
Along the journey Stanley has formed a strong partnership with Mark Blicavs, while also being as a mentor for developing ruck Toby Conway.
Now into his 10th season at GMHBA Stadium, Stanley is set to play his 150th Cats game this Saturday against West Coast.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUG 10: Rhys Stanley of the Cats celebrates the win on the final siren during the 2024 AFL Round 22 match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Geelong Cats at Optus Stadium on August 10, 2024 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos)
Tickets are still available for Saturday’s clash, follow the link below for more information.
Make sure you collect your Tom Hawkins face mask outside the ground and be in your seats by 1pm for the chance to win 1 of 50 giveaways!
