The Next Generation of footballers have taken their training to new heights over the Summer, with Geelong's Futures Academy Boys and Girls programs completing an In-Club Experience.

The experience presented an opportunity for boys and girls to step inside an AFL environment, helping them to gain a deeper understanding of the requirements both on and off the field to be an elite athlete.

Right across Geelong's Next Generation Academy region (from Lara to South Warrnambool), young stars took part in the experience which included 30 players from 17 different local clubs. 

Among the crop of players were exciting Father Son and Daughter prospects, which included the likes of Oscar King, Max Mansfield and Charli Bizzell.

Geelong's Academy and Pathways Manager, Chris Lynch spoke about the experience for the players involved over the Summer. 

"We see real value in welcoming emerging players into the club and giving them an authentic AFL experience, and we are particularly proud to offer the experience to players from our region," Lynch said. 

“The players involved throughout January are all at important stages of their development, and the opportunity to learn inside an AFL setting is a powerful part of that journey.”

With the AFL pre-season in full swing, another young prospect in Alex Assemani took part in AFL training as he continues his personal development and growth. 

Part of the National Indigenous Academy, Assemani is a talented player from the Geelong Falcons and is set to go into his top age year in 2026. 

Along with his experience with the Falcons, Assemani also represented Vic Country at the AFL Under 16 Championships during 2024. 

The Cats also hosted two players from the AFL Academy over the Summer, including Jack Pickett from Torquay and Noah Williams from St Joseph's. 

Pickett represents Torquay as his local club, and was previously coached by Geelong Assistant Coach, James Rahilly in Under 16s. 

At a representative level, Pickett plays for the Geelong Falcons and has also represented Vic Country on two occasions, while also playing in the Under 17 National Futures match on Grand Final day last year. 

Another Geelong Falcons product, Williams has also represented Vic Country in the last two years, while being named best on ground in the Under 17 National Futures match. 

"Across the week, Jack and Noah immersed themselves in the program and embraced the demands of an AFL environment," Lynch said. 

"They showed professionalism both on and off field and made the most of the opportunity to learn off AFL players and coaches."

Ben Rongdit was another highly touted young prospect who has spent valuable time with the Cats, training alongside the AFL program from December through to January. 

A member of the 2025 AFL Academy and Vic Country squad, Rongdit was unfortunately restricted this year and was significantly disrupted by a back injury, followed by an ACL injury. As a result, he was limited to two Talent League matches and four school games for Geelong Grammar.

He will continue as a member of Geelong's NGA program next year and will return to the Geelong Falcons as a 19-year-old player, while also being involved with the Cats VFL program.

Rongdit is now six months post-ACL surgery and has been completing his rehab at the club, while also participating in the first-year player football education program.

“Ben has been diligent with his rehab, showing resilience and professionalism throughout what’s been a challenging period," Lynch said. 

"We’re pleased to continue supporting him through our NGA program as he works towards returning bigger and better in the second half of 2026.”