As Ollie Dempsey soared into the night sky against Collingwood on Saturday, you could not help but feel that the incredible grab was symbolic of his start to the season. 

Taking his game to even greater heights, the 2024 Rising Star winner has continued to find plenty of the footy averaging over 16 disposals per game, but he has also been able to use his work rate to become a genuine threat inside forward 50. 

From his position on the wing, Dempsey has kicked 13 goals in eight games to start the year, while registering a total of 45 score involvements which is the third most of any Geelong player in 2025. 

The young star has proven to be a dangerous asset at the MCG in particular, collecting over 17 disposals per game and kicking 12 goals from his last eight appearances at the venue. 

With the ability to utilise his elite running prowess, Dempsey said he enjoys playing in front of the big crowds at the MCG and recapped the impressive win over Collingwood. 

"I was on the wing just thinking please miss it, please miss it," Dempsey confessed to Cats Media. 

"Luckily he missed it but we made it a little harder than we should have, but it was good theatre. 

"I love the wide wings here at the MCG. There is a lot of running and I love everything about it to be honest.

"I have loved the last three weeks here, it has been nice. The last three weeks have been massive crowds for us, it is good experience and you can't really buy that experience.

"We are lucky enough to get that down in Geelong too which is good."

Geelong were able to mount yet another fourth quarter comeback in Round 8, clinching a thrilling three point victory over the Magpies after trailing by as much as 20 points throughout the night. 

Across the opening eight weeks of the season, the Cats have outscored their opponent in the last quarter on seven occasions, with a total differential of +140 points which is the second highest in the competition behind Gold Coast. 

Dempsey provided insight into Geelong's ability to finish strongly each week, while also noting Chris Scott's message at three quarter time on Saturday night. 

"We trust that we are a really good fourth quarter team," Dempsey told Cats Media. 

"We have got a lot of really good runners in the team which is nice.

"'Scotty' just gave us the message at three quarter time, he reminded us that we are a great fourth quarter team and to just back ourselves in and play our way.

"It worked out well."

Geelong return to GMHBA Stadium in Round 9 as they prepare for another big game, taking on the GWS Giants at 3.20pm on Sunday afternoon.