Geelong West youngster Tom Handley earns Geelong Falcons debut, list spot after strong form at senior level
This young talent was cut from the Falcons a year ago, but now will make his Coates Talent League debut after impressing at senior level.
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Geelong West youngster Tom Handley will make his Geelong Falcons debut on Sunday after being parachuted into the squad off the back of strong form at senior level.
Handley, 17, was added to the Falcons list on Thursday and hours later he was locked in for a Coates Talent League debut against the Tasmania Devils in North Hobart on Sunday.
The skilful midfielder-forward had featured for the Falcons at under-16 level but had not been part of the program since early in the 2024 pre-season, where he failed to make the final squad.
But the persistent youngster has now earnt his chance after impressing for the Giants’ senior side this season alongside his two older brothers Lachie and David, including an eye-catching display against St Albans in round two.
Geelong West had pushed hard for him to added to the Falcons squad.
Geelong Falcons are regularly on the hunt for emerging or late developing talents to add to their line-up, and talent lead Jesse Drever says Handley’s opportunity is richly deserved.
“Tom has been performing really well at Geelong West, and it’s another example of the fluidity we are trying to demonstrate in our list,” Drever said.
“We obviously have eyes on games in the community, and West were comfortable enough to reach out and give further insights to Tom’s form, which is what we are really trying to promote amongst our clubs.
“Whilst Tom would have naturally been disappointed not to be in our squad to start the year, he has taken on board all feedback, worked hard with Greg Mellor and the team at West, shown great form in the seniors and in school football, and we’re really excited to see him get to debut this week”
Grovedale ruckman Cooper Leach and Lara key forward Jett Elek both joined the program last season after recommendations from their local clubs.
Originally published as Geelong West youngster Tom Handley earns Geelong Falcons debut, list spot after strong form at senior level
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