Lachlan Keeffe on how he became GWS’ Mr fix-it, his premiership goal and rucking against Max Gawn

Lachie Keeffe concedes he was selfish during his time at Collingwood. Keeffe tells LACHLAN MCKIRDY about changing his mindset and becoming Adam Kingsley’s ultimate insurance policy.

GWS ruckman Lachie Keeffe continues to prove that age is just a number as he reflects on a footy career that has taken him from a “selfish” mindset to become one of the “most selfless” Giants going around.

Keeffe, 34, began his journey all the way back in 2008 when he was signed by Collingwood as an unregistered player. It might have taken him nearly three years to make his AFL debut, but 17 years later, his longevity as a key position player endures.

Last Sunday, Keeffe played an important role for the Giants in their dominant win over Collingwood. After Kieren Briggs suffered a serious concussion in the first quarter, Keeffe was handed the reins as the number one ruckman and worked tirelessly to curb the influence of Darcy Cameron.

While Cameron still came away with the points in their direct match-up, the Giants’ midfield had far more impact in the 52-point victory. And although Keeffe remains modest about the influence he had in the result, his teammates believe his ability to step up and limit the damage was vital.

The best of King Keeffe 👑 #BigBigSoundpic.twitter.com/vGvrWuZWDf

— GWS GIANTS (@GWSGIANTS) June 11, 2023

“My role was going to be forward-ruck anyway, so I was across what the midfield was trying to do,” Keeffe said.

“But you’re so dialled in on game day anyway, you’re ready to do what’s needed for the team. I just had to dial it up.

“Darcy is one of the better ruckmen. He’s a contested beast and he taught me a lesson again on the weekend. I don’t think the team expects too much spectacular out of me, I’m just going to play my role and be hard at the contest.”

Lachie Keeffe battles in a ruck contest against Darcy Cameron.

“You just know what you’re going to get from Keeffey,” Lachie Ash added.

“When Briggsy went down, you think who’s the next man up? When you know it’s (Keeffey), you know the job is going to get done.

“It was super impressive from the big fella, but he’ll go again. He’s a bloody good teammate, you love having him around.”

The former Pie epitomises what it means to be a Giant according to Ash.

After being delisted at the end of 2024 and re-signed through the rookie draft, Keeffe continues to set the standards for the players around him.

“He’s nearly the first one in here most days,” Ash said.

“And he’s always one of the last out on the track.

“Even though he’s 34, he just wants to get the most out of himself. I think he knows that he’s coming towards the end of his career and he wants to be a part of something special. Honestly, he’s one of the most selfless guys in the club.”

It was just the fifth time in his career that Keeffe has played in his club’s first game of the season. So often forced to be patient and bide his time, it’s a sign of the respect Keeffe is held in by his coach and teammates that he can be relied upon whatever the scenario.

It’s also something the veteran prides himself on as he admits his footy priorities have changed over the years.

“I was pumped to play the first game of the season,” Keeffe said. “It’s been a couple of years since I’ve been able to do that.

“Kingers and I have a pretty good relationship – it probably shows my age a bit. I’m under no illusion that I’m not a Jesse Hogan or a Tom Green or a top-10 B & F player, but I go out there and be the best version of myself that I can be on the training track.

Keeffe stepped up when Kieren Briggs was injured in round 1.

“I think when you first come in, (footy) is a real selfish endeavour. From my point of view, I just wanted to play in the AFL. I had two or three years (at Collingwood) of reserves, so it wasn’t too much about whether we win or lose. The purpose becomes more clear as your journey unfolds.

“I’ll always give myself the best chance, whether that’s getting games or not. I’m a competitive guy, I want to play at the highest level. It might be Opening Round, it might be round 20. My purpose is winning games of footy and winning premierships — if it’s 24 games or if it’s one or two, a premiership is what I wanna do.”

Keeffe’s dedication extends to intense sessions with ruck coach Shane Mumford, who even sets the 34-year-old homework outside of training.

“He’s technically and tactically adept,” Keeffe said.

“We have quite deep conversations about ruck craft … he’s a great leader and teacher.”

However, the biggest thing Keeffe has always learned is to make the most of every opportunity.

Keeffe will have a huge job to stop Max Gawn in round 1. Picture: Mark Stewart

He’s set to go to battle again this Sunday in a one-on-one match-up against Max Gawn, who he describes as the “pre-eminent ruckman of our generation”.

But beyond that, he knows nothing is guaranteed. Briggs is likely to return from concussion in round three, Jake Riccardi’s suspension will come to an end, and Academy-products Nick Madden and Logan Smith continue to take great strides in their ruck development.

That’s why Keeffe plans to enjoy each victorious moment while he can.

“That feeling is definitely addictive, that locker room feeling and being a part of wins and finals,” Keeffe said.

“I’ve got responsibilities outside of footy now with a young family. From a selfish point of view, I’d love to play forever. But I know that that’s not on the cards for me. It’s not as simple as that decision has been in the past.

“I never like to write myself off or call it early. Who knows how the year pans out. I’m focused on the season, trying to win games of footy and helping the team succeed.”

Originally published as Lachlan Keeffe on how he became GWS’ Mr fix-it, his premiership goal and rucking against Max Gawn