“I want to be the leader”: Lawson Humphries reveals takeaways from AFL Origin, 2026 ambitions

Hot off the heels of an eventful State of Origin game, Lawson Humphries is raring to go for the upcoming AFL season, and he's taking some new lessons with him.

The Geelong defender, who represented Western Australia at Optus Stadium, reflected on what he gained throughout the experience.

"The main things I took away are some of the little learnings you get from playing with some of the best players," Humphries said.

"I played on Toby Greene a lot that night and and I felt like I learned a lot just from that experience."

Humphries was also happy to talk about his enjoyment of the representative game, praising coach Dean Cox for his passion. He acknowledged the importance of the event for forming new connections, not only with WA fans but with players he otherwise wouldn't have had the chance to be on a team with.

"I think it was a really special event and hopefully they do it for a few more years." Humphries reflected.

Despite WA ultimately losing to the Vics, Humphries credits the game for boosting his confidence pre season.

"The way I was able to play the second half in that game gave me the confidence that I can match it with the game's best," Humphries said.

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This confidence has not translated to arrogance however, as Humphries admits he struggled with fatigue towards the end of his last season and has been working hard during pre-season to ensure he is able to step up his game this season.

"I want to be a really strong contributor to the group." Humphries said.

"We have such a strong backline and I want to be the leader of that."

Geelong will start the season playing Gold Coast on Friday the 7th of March at the People's First Stadium.