James Leake set to become GWS’ new Mr Fix It for the Orange Tsunami after being impressed by 2023 run in finals

The Giants won many fans across the AFL in 2023 as they missed the last Saturday in September by a kick. One of those was a teenage Tasmanian who, months later, GWS would snare on draft night. LACHLAN McKIRDY speaks to James Leake.

James Leake is ready to dive head first into the Orange Tsnuami game style at the Giants. Picture: Phil Hillyard

The Giants’ Orange Tsunami game style won many admirers in 2023.

None more so than a 17-year-old Tasmanian kid who months later would be looking forward to hitting the ground running for Adam Kingsley’s side.

The versatile James Leake was taken at pick 17 by GWS in the draft and offers plenty of value as a utility player for Kingsley in 2024.

But the chance to play for one of the most exciting teams in the AFL was certainly in Leake’s mind throughout 2023.

“That was all the way through my draft year, every time I spoke with GWS they seemed keen and I got a good vibe from them,” Leake said.

“They’re just a super exciting group from the outside looking in. Last year with a new coach coming in, no one expected them to make a prelim final and then for them to do that, everyone enjoys how they go about their business.

“I’m extremely lucky to be involved in a group like that and it’s going to get the best out of me and push me. But ultimately, I think that’s the best thing for my football. I’m super keen to get to work.”

Leake is ready to make an immediate impact in his first year at GWS. Picture: Phil Hillyard

Leake was a part of the drought-breaking Allies side that won last year’s under-18 National Championship and was named in the competition’s all-Australian backline.

But throughout his footy career he has played across the park, with the Giants hopeful he can replicate that adaptability at AFL level.

Leake knows that he won’t be short of role models for whatever role he might play as he’s ready to embrace his ‘Mr Fix-It’ tag.

“All through juniors I played all three positions,” Leake said. “That helped me have an impact wherever I played across the ground and put me in good stead for the Draft.

“Coming into this year, it will be a big jump but I’ll have similar traits and can be used in a similar manner.

“In terms of different positions, Tom Green in the midfield is a jet and I can watch how he goes about his business on and off the field. Toby Greene is also a superstar.

“For me, it’s such a good opportunity to learn off the best in the competition and make me the best player I can be.

“I’m just trying to improve my craft in all thirds of the ground and wherever GWS need a best fit to play, I’ll try and do that.”

The Tasmanian product has impressed throughout his career with his versatility. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

And while he had no doubts that the Giants’ gamestyle would suit his own attributes, from day one at the club it was clear that there was also an alignment in attitude.

While many were surprised that Leake was taken behind fellow first-round draftee Phoenix Gothard, the pair took it as a vote of confidence that the Giants were so convinced in their plan to get the services of both.

And if they wanted any extra motivation to make an early impression on Kingsley and their new teammates, seeing the likes of Greene and Stephen Coniglio turn up early to the first day of pre-season was all they needed.

“I think it shows how hungry the group is and those older dudes are the ones driving the standards,” Leake said.

“GWS is in a really good spot, one kick away from a grand final last year. The overwhelming feeling among the group is excited to get to work and that’s driven by the players.

“You’re training with people you’ve watched on TV for a number of years now so to be here is surreal. Now, it’s getting in good habits and routines to set myself up for a good pre-season.

“We’ve now got to go repay the faith and play as hard as we can and see how we go.”