While Geelong’s opening AFLW practice match didn’t deliver the start the side was chasing, key forward Jackie Parry believes it revealed something just as valuable: the team’s ability to respond.
The Cats found their rhythm after half-time, producing a much-improved second-half performance that showcased the brand of football they’ve been building throughout the preseason.
“It wasn’t the start we would’ve liked, but the fact we were able to bounce back a bit and play our brand of footy in the second half shows good growth for the team,” Parry said.
With another practice match against Brisbane looming this weekend, the focus is now on taking those lessons and applying them against one of the competition’s strongest sides.
“We’ll compare the first half versus the second half, but it all comes back to the fundamentals,” she added. “It’s back to work this week,” learning from what they can from the game and implementing it against a really good side. “If they can apply the pressure to us and see how we react to that, we couldn’t ask for a better opposition for a practice match.”
The Cats welcomed new Senior Coach Mick Stinear, alongside Assistant Coach Ryan Pendlebury, who joined the club from North Melbourne, and Assistant Coach Sam Simpson, who has returned to Geelong following a stint in the WAFL. The Cats have embraced a fresh approach heading into the 2026 season.
“It feels really fresh,” Parry said. "We've got clarity on the game plan; now it's about putting it into play. The change has been really good for the team."
The preseason has also provided an opportunity for Geelong’s emerging talent to shine with Parry excited by the progress of several young Cats.
“Loved having Chantal Mason down with me; she’s my partner in crime,” she said with a smile. “I loved seeing her growth over the preseason.”
Parry has also been impressed by Emma Kilpatrick's return after overcoming a shoulder injury. “It's been really good to see Emma Kilpatrick build her confidence back up with her body."
And if supporters haven't seen much of Emma Murray yet, Parry says they're in for a treat.
"I can't wait for people to see how quick she is," she said.
She also highlighted Alexis Gregor’s ability to consistently win her one-on-one contests, describing the club’s emerging group as a major reason for optimism.
“There’s a lot of promising new players; it’s really exciting.”
With a fresh coaching group, an evolving game plan and a wave of exciting young talent pushing the standards, Parry believes the Cats are building something worth watching.
The test against Brisbane presents another chance to fine-tune their game, but it’s also an opportunity to see how far the group has come.
With each week bringing greater understanding of their game plan, the Cats are well placed to continue their growth ahead of the 2026 AFLW season.
