Jamaine Jones became Stephen Wells’s latest left-field selection when the Cats used their third pick in Monday’s rookie draft to pluck the strong-tackling forward from the North Ballarat Rebels.
“What probably got him drafted was the interleague game,” Wells said.
“I’d gone down there to watch Cedric Cox, who ended up getting drafted, and Jamaine was a late inclusion and he was the best player for the Hampden league on the day.
“His tackling and forward craft was terrific and that carried on to the games at North Ballarat Rebels.”
Relentless tackling, forward pressure and cunning goal sense are Jones’s signature traits. Lucky for Jones, they’re the non-negotiables Geelong demands of its small forwards.
Jones debuted for Geelong in round 10 of 2018 against Carlton in front of a home crowd and scored his first goal in under 3 minutes. Jones continued to play 7 games in 2018, his standout game being 11 tackles against Sydney and 14 disposals and one goal against the Suns.
His efforts off the field were recognised as he received the Cats Community Award for his contribution towards helping others and supporting the club’s flagship programs.
Draft History: Pick 48 2016 AFL Rookie Draft (Geelong)