GEELONG, 26 March 2026 – Geelong Cats forward Shaun Mannagh has secured his future at GMHBA Stadium, signing a three-year contract extension that will keep him in the hoops until at least the end of the 2029 season. The deal, announced earlier this week, rewards the mature-age recruit for his immediate impact since being drafted and locks in a key piece of the Cats’ attacking structure.
Contract Secured After Stellar Start
The 28-year-old put pen to paper on the new deal just days ago, with the club officially announcing the extension on 23 March. Selected with Pick 36 in the 2023 National Draft as a 26-year-old, Mannagh made his debut in Round 1 of 2024 and has since become a crucial component of Geelong’s forward line. His new contract is a significant show of faith from the club following a 2025 season where he finished in the top five at Geelong for both goals (31) and goal assists (20).
Mannagh’s Journey to the AFL
Shaun Mannagh’s path to the AFL is a testament to perseverance. Born on 6 August 1997, he was drafted at the age of 26 after years of honing his craft in lower leagues. He created history in the Hume Football League, becoming the youngest player in over a century to win a best and fairest award, doing so with Walla Walla as a 16-year-old in 2013. His standout performances in the VFL ultimately led to his long-awaited AFL opportunity with Geelong.
2026 Season Form
Mannagh has carried his strong form into the new season. In Round 3, just yesterday, he was instrumental in sparking a Geelong fightback with a burst of three goals early in the second quarter. His start to the 2026 campaign has been impressive, as shown in his season statistics to date:
| Statistic | Total (2 Games) | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 2 | 2.0 |
| Kicks | 21 | 10.5 |
| Handballs | 5 | 2.5 |
| Disposals | 26 | 13.0 |
| Marks | 6 | 3.0 |
| Goals | 4 | 2.0 |
Career at a Glance
Since his debut, Mannagh has compiled a consistent and impactful body of work. The following totals reflect his AFL career through the end of the 2025 season:
| Career Statistic | Total (35 Games) | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 35 | – |
| Goals | 46 | 1.31 |
| Kicks | 447 | 12.77 |
Player Profile
- Full Name: Shaun Mannagh
- Date of Birth: 6 August 1997
- Height: 178 cm
- Weight: 80 kg
- AFL Debut: Round 1, 2024 (Geelong Cats)
- Draft: Pick 36, 2023 National Draft
- Position: Forward
- Current Contract: Extended until end of 2029
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Shaun Mannagh’s new contract?
Mannagh has signed a three-year contract extension with the Geelong Cats, which will keep him at the club until the conclusion of the 2029 AFL season.
How old was Shaun Mannagh when he was drafted?
Shaun Mannagh was 26 years old when the Geelong Cats selected him with Pick 36 in the 2023 National Draft, making him a mature-age recruit.
What are Mannagh’s key statistics for the 2026 season so far?
After two rounds in the 2026 season, Mannagh is averaging 13 disposals, 3 marks, and 2 goals per game, demonstrating his value as a dangerous small forward.
What award did Mannagh win in 2025?
In 2025, Shaun Mannagh won the AFL Coaches Association (AFLCA) Best Young Player Award, recognising his outstanding season.