Travis Varcoe looks to have clicked into his new defensive role just at the right time, following months of mentoring by fellow defender Andrew Mackie.

Leading up to tonight’s qualifying final, Mackie’s defence apprentice has displayed two gallant performances, which was topped off nicely with his inherent instinct to run and attack.

Finding the right balance has been the toughest part of Varcoe’s transition, having to put the breaks on his love of attack whilst increasing his defensive output, however, the former midfielder has shown that perseverance and hard work pays off.

“At the start of the year I would have said I’m most comfortable playing in the midfield. Now I’d probably say backline,” Varcoe told News Limited.

“They’re a funny branch down there, but I’m really enjoying it.”

During Varcoe’s journey from attack to defence, All-Australian and premiership defender, Mackie, has been there to guide him through each and every step.

“The bit he really needed to work on was where to set up and game-type scenarios,” Mackie said.

“The easiest way we’ve found to do that is get on the video and have a look at some edits, whether it be opposition stuff or some of his own.”

“When he’s already done his work during the week, then he doesn’t have to stress about where he should be in the game.

“It’s been driven by him.

“He’s been keen to learn and put the time in. For a bloke to ask and want to learn is always a good thing, and I’m more than happy to help out.
Since making the switch, Varcoe has discovered that he can bring a lot more to the team.

“It’s not about getting the ball and attacking all the time. I’ve got to be accountable,” Varcoe said.

Although it hasn’t been an easy ride, over the past two clashes we’ve had an exiting taste of what our speedy Cat is qualified to do in the frontline and the back.  

“I felt like it came together (against Hawthorn in round 22), but you’ve got to keep doing it every week,” Varcoe said.

Having been there throughout Varcoe’s development, Mackie is excited to see what else Varcoe can bring as the Cats head towards another fierce battlefield.

“… A lot of people don’t see a lot of stuff Trav does,” Mackie said.

“The last few weeks he’s really shown what he’s capable of. It’s a matter of doing it again and again. Hopefully he sets himself up to have a really good finals series.”

Besides Mackie, it’s Geelong’s senior coach Chris Scott who has really pushed Varcoe to his limits and has never lost doubt in his ability.

“His fortnight has been fantastic, Trav hasn’t had the best year by his standards,” Scott admitted.

“But he’s probably symbolic of a few of our players in that he’s got himself into this position now and he’s playing near his best when it really counts.”