Their club's AFL season may have been an abject disaster, but a host of AFL-listed Bombers did their career prospects no harm with strong performances in the club's elimination final victory over Williamstown on Saturday.
Before he begins contract negotiations, fifth overall pick from the 2022 National Draft Elijah Tsatas reminded those at the Hanger of his prolificity, racking up 32 disposals and eight clearances in the win.
Experienced campaigner Will Setterfield also managed eight clearances from his 23 disposals and added a major to his day's statline to boot.
Crafty small Jayden Nguyen hit the scoreboard, notching a goal from his 15 touches, while Nikolas Cox, Jade Gresham and Liam McMahon combined for seven goals.
All six of these players are without contracts beyond this season, and will be hoping that strong form throughout the VFL finals will see their AFL dreams realised for at least a season longer.
Senior coach Chris Scott recently encouraged members of Geelong's powerful VFL side to maintain the rage in the hopes of a recall, and a slew of names did just that on Saturday.
Fringe Cats George Stevens, Mitch Knevitt and Jack Bowes each registered at least 30 disposals in the side's qualifying final victory over Tasmania.
Knevitt was particularly busy, adding two goals and six tackles to his day's return.
All three are out of contract, but with relative youth on their side, and Geelong known for exemplary depth, it is hard to see any of the trio moved on when the dreaded act list culling is undertaken at Kardinia Park.
Amid rampaging speculation regarding his playing future, Hawk Calsher Dear let his football do the talking, starring in Box Hill's victory over Werribee to send the side into a preliminary final.
The father-son notched four majors, including the sealer, in a close-run victory to push his case for both an extension from the club, and potentially, an AFL finals recall.
Calsher Dear might have just sent his team to a prelim 🔥
🎥: Watch the Smithy’s VFL Finals Series live and free on the AFL website and AFL Live Official App pic.twitter.com/TlzRaDW5B6
— VFL / VFLW (@VFL) August 29, 2026
The AFL-listed Finn Maginness was also busy, with seven clearances from his 26 disposals, while VFL standout Henry Hustwaite led all comers with 10 clearances from his 25 disposals.
Rugby league convert Matt Hill pushed his case for another taste of AFL football, booting a goal from his 13 touches, and laying five tackles.
The fixturing for the third week of the VFL Finals is expected to be communicated shortly.
