James Worpel says a move to Geelong wasn’t as “clear cut” as many assumed.
The former Hawthorn midfielder, who grew up at Bannockburn, about 20 minutes from GMHBA Stadium, had been linked to the Cats from mid-season, having not signed a new deal with the Hawks.
However, he did find a home at Geelong as a free agent in October, inking a four-year deal.
“There’s definitely a bit to go through,” Worpel, who turns 27 in January, said.
“I think a few of the media people were just guessing – (it) ended up being a good guess.
“There was a lot of talks between the club and my management group.
“But it’s never as clear-cut as it seems.”
Worpel, who co-captained the Geelong Falcons to the 2017 TAC Cup (Talent League) premiership, battled injury early in the season but still managed to feature in 21 of Hawthorn’s 26 matches.
He averaged 20 disposals (ten contested), five clearances, and five tackles a game as the Hawks reached a preliminary final, where they succumbed to the Cats.
However, Worpel says
“I think it was just right timing for me,” he said. “I think where (Hawthorn) was going with their list and their profile, and Geelong obviously being interested, was flattering; the timing was perfect.
“Footy’s not forever, and I think opportunities like this don’t come around very often.
“So the nostalgia around coming home, being with my family and playing for the blue and white, who I supported for my whole life, was just too much to give up.
“I took that opportunity when it came.”
Worpel says the Cats didn’t have to work hard to secure his services.
“I knew what the club was about, I knew what the culture was about, I knew what the environment and the location was as well, so it wasn’t really a big pitch,” he said.
“It was just getting to know each other and (to) see if we can make a deal and get it done.
“It’s such a good club, and that was one thing I really wanted to make sure I was coming to – a good, strong club with a good history and potential to play in grand finals and finals.”
As Geelong’s first off-season addition, Worpel had the pick of the vacant numbers, choosing the No.29 carried by Cam Guthrie and, before him, Gary Ablett Jr.
“Really good players, really good history as well,” he said.
“I’ve been pretty lucky with numbers of worn in my AFL career – 5 and 29.
“Big shoes to fill. But, I want to make (it) my own, and I couldn’t be happier to be in the 29, to be honest.
“It’s a great number.”
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