Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Football
Netball
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
The Cats could have a new cult hero, young Don tipped to break out in 2025
SEN • February 26th, 2025 3:58 pm
Sam Edmund was a keen observer of Tuesday night’s AAMI Community Series clash between Geelong and Essendon which officially kicked off the 2025 AFL pre-season.
The Dons would go on to win the game 104-83 thanks to some brilliant kicking in front of goal (17.2) with young forwards Isaac Kako (four goals) and Nate Caddy (three goals) catching the eye in the red and black.
While Kako and Caddy stole the headlines, Edmund’s eyes were drawn toward fellow youngster Elijah Tsatas with the former No. 5 pick helping himself to 31 disposals and 10 clearances.
After playing just four games in his debut season and seven last year, Edmund expects Tsatas to truly break out in 2025.
“I loved it (watching Caddy and Kako),” Edmund said on SEN Whateley.
“They had a good flurry of activity and seven goals between them. That was pretty good given Nate spent the first quarter warming up on the sidelines.
“Every time Nic Martin gets it, something good happens – there’s not many players you can say that about, he’s so dangerous.
“But for me, the guy who has breakout written all over him is Elijah Tsatas, he is ready to go.
“31 touches last night, 10 clearances and 13 contested possessions. He had a good practice match a few days prior and he hasn't played at senior level since midway through last year.”
As for Geelong, Edmund was impressed by 22-year-old key forward Shannon Neale who kicked two goals and young key defender Connor O’Sullivan, while Jeremy Cameron (two goals, 23 disposals, 11 marks) was the Cats’ clear standout.
“On the other side, Shannon Neale, he's cult-like, isn't he? He's athletic, he's powerful. I love his game,” Edmund said.
“Connor O'Sullivan looks good as well and Jeremy Cameron looked arguably too sharp for February.”
Essendon now gear up for an Opening Round clash against Gold Coast at People First Stadium on March 8.
Geelong’s first game comes in Round 1 against Fremantle at GMHBA Stadium on March 15.
