Geelong has used its first pick in the AFL National Draft to select a player who will miss the majority of the 2026 season.
The Cats have landed speedy wingman Harley Barker from SANFL club Sturt, who earned All-Australian selection after helping South Australia win the under-18 National Championships.
Barker, who stands 188cm, averaged 16 disposals for the Croweaters.
However, he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament on his return to club football, resulting in a knee reconstruction.
“It’s been pretty hard, obviously, with the injury,” Barker told Fox Footy.
“I’m really happy with where I’m at, and, hopefully, (I’ll) be running soon.
“The quad’s looking good – it’s back to good strength.
“Hopefully, I’ll be running in a couple of weeks’ time, which is really exciting.”
Not surprisingly, as a wingman, the AFL Academy member is looking forward to crossing paths with one emerging Geelong star.
“It’s pretty clear – Ollie Dempsey. One hundred per cent,” Barker said.
“I always love watching him, and I base my game off him a little bit.”
It’s the fifth time the Cats have had a pick 24 in the 40-year history of the National Draft, following David Wojcinski (1998), Steve Johnson (2001), Tim Kelly (2017) and Toby Conway in 2021.
The selection of Barker was Geelong’s only involvement to start the three-day draft period.
The Cats currently hold selection 33 for tomorrow night’s second round
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