Nathan Ablett has joined the cats Father/ son rule

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Nathan Ablett to join Cats
2:02:42 PM Mon 25 October, 2004
Sportal
Jordan Chong
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Cats lower expectations

Geelong's long and at times frustrating pursuit of Nathan Ablett - son of club legend Gary Ablett - has proved successful, with the youngster agreeing to be drafted by the Cats under the father/son rule.

Ablett, who plays local footy in the Geelong area and is highly regarded as a tall marking forward, will be taken with the No.48 pick in November's National Bank AFL Draft.

A beaming Cats coach Mark Thompson, who made the announcement at Skilled Stadium on Monday, said it was the persuasive powers of president Frank Costa that proved the difference after two years of negotiations.



"It has been a really long process but it's one that's been worthwhile," Thompson said.

"He's said no to us a lot of times and when Frank Costa went to see him the last two times … not too many people say no to Frank and Nathan wasn't able to either."

"Frank's just got a marvellous way about him and he just convinced him to start investing some time into his own life and talked about turning into a man and having responsibilities and how football can be a great infrastructure in developing people."

"Frank's just got the charm."

18-year-old Nathan will join older brother Gary when the club begins pre-season training on 10 November. He will wear the number 23 guernsey.

"He's six foot three, he's quite quick, he's a very good kick on his left and right so he has got the basic skill set of what is required at this level."

Nathan, who Thompson described as painfully shy, declined to be present at the official announcement.

Meanwhile, Thompson said Ben Graham's future as a Geelong player rested in the hands of the veteran forward.

Graham returned from the United States last Friday, where he trialled as a punter with a number of NFL clubs.

"I can't tell you which way it is going to go. If he gets a great offer from the New York Jets, I think he'll probably take it."

"It would be a shame to leave the club at this point in time but ultimately that's Ben's decision."

"It's out of my hands. We really want Ben to stay (but) we can't compete with that sort of money though."

Good news for cats fans
 

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