Quietly across the course of two AFL seasons, rookie-drafted Jack Henry has amassed 45 games at the top level.

The quiet achiever now has a wealth of AFL experience, and the Cats have a durable and dependable long-term defensive prospect.

While he may not have received much fanfare or a Brownlow vote across those 45 games, he has won the trust of the Geelong coaches and defensive group.

Game-Breaking Performance

Henry waited for retro round to dish up a dogged and dour performance worthy of the occasion.

Jumpin’ Jack amassed a career-high 12 one-percenters as he made Nick Larkey’s night one to forget while also sweeping up from the last line of defence.

It was a performance indicative of Henry’s year – no frills but a complete defensive performance.

The Stat

Stats aren’t usually the friend of a disciplined defender, but when it comes to the essential categories, the numbers are in Jack’s favour.

Henry ranks elite for contested marks (0.9 per game), spoils (4.9 per game) and one-percenters (5.5 per game).

The Quote

But as a defender you want to be ruthless, you want to be beat these players and you have to as well because if I want to hold my spot in this backline I have to beat players.

Henry gave an insight into his ruthless mindset in an interview with the Geelong Advertiser.

Ideal Locker Buddy

With 2020 looking likely to be Harry Taylor’s last season in the game, the year presents as one more opportunity for the Cats’ young defenders to learn from the experienced swingman.

The 12-year veteran attacks training as hard as anyone in the business, keeps a notebook of defensive strategy and is beyond diligent when it comes to preparation and recovery.