Toby Greene has officially signed with Geelong as a free agent after spending 15 seasons with the Greater Western Sydney Giants. In return for Greene’s departure, the Giants are set to receive a second-round draft pick, which is currently positioned at number 26.
The AFL free agency window remains open until next Friday, while the trade period will take place from October 5 to October 14.
Greene’s move marks a significant moment in the AFL free agency landscape, making him the first prominent player to switch teams. The Giants confirmed that they would receive compensation in the form of a second-round draft selection for losing their former captain to the Cats. The necessary paperwork was submitted on Friday, facilitating Greene’s transition as an unrestricted free agent.
At 33 years old, Greene has an impressive record, having achieved triple All-Australian status and being a dual club champion. Over his 15-year career with GWS, he scored 450 goals across 282 matches. He has cited family considerations as a primary reason for his return to Victoria, where he will reunite with his close friend and former Giants teammate Jeremy Cameron at Geelong, signing a lucrative three-year contract.
In other news, Joel Amartey’s transition from Sydney to Carlton was confirmed as the free agency period commenced. The Swans will receive draft compensation for losing the unrestricted 27-year-old forward, who was sidelined during finals due to a partial Achilles tear and struggled to gain favor with coach Dean Cox.
Additionally, paperwork is expected to be finalized later on Friday for Lachie Neale’s move to Collingwood as an unrestricted free agent. Neale recently added a third premiership medal to his accolades while with the Brisbane Lions.
Jack Viney, the vice-captain of Melbourne’s 2021 premiership team, is also on the verge of a transfer after discussions with West Coast, despite having two years left on his current contract. Following a season largely spent on the sidelines due to injury, the 32-year-old received indications from coach Steven King that his opportunities in the Demons’ midfield may be limited moving forward. Viney expressed his readiness to embrace the new opportunity, stating, “It took a bit to process early days, but we’re here now, so we’ll make the best of the opportunity … it [a deal] will get done.”
Meanwhile, young forward Calsher Dear from Hawthorn has decided to remain with the club, signing a two-year extension after considering a move to Melbourne. The 21-year-old, son of late Norm Smith medallist Paul Dear, made a notable debut season with 25 goals in 17 games in 2024. However, he faced challenges maintaining his spot due to injuries and competition, playing only 14 games in the following two seasons. Hawks list manager Mark McKenzie expressed optimism for Dear’s future, emphasizing the potential for growth with a solid pre-season ahead.
Hawthorn’s forward line could face further competition in 2027, as restricted free agent Ben King from Gold Coast is anticipated to join a lineup that includes Jack Gunston, Mitch Lewis, Mabior Chol, and Dear.
