Hinkley, speaking on behalf of a “little bit off” Mark Thompson, said the former Bunyip star had set about some “life changing” regimes in a bid to make it at the top level.
“He’s a good story, getting his first game for the club and having come through our VFL list,” Hinkley said.
Fellow emerging ruckman Trent West makes way for the 21-year-old and, with Brad Ottens on the sidelines for at least another week, Hinkley said the youngster’s steep progression had not only allowed the Cats to promote him to senior level but also give West a break.
“We’ve got the opportunity with Westy now having had five games in his first season … to give Mummy a go as well,” Hinkley said.
“It’s a great opportunity to see what young players we’ve got in that area to cover for us ... it’s a great chance for him.”
The Cats travel to Subiaco looking to make it six from six in 2008, but Hinkley said the reigning premiers weren’t expecting a cakewalk against a Fremantle side struggling with just one win.
“They had some younger boys in their side last week [and] watching a few of them play, they’ve got some excitement”, Hinkley said.
“They’ve got a side that are probably a little bit down on where they’d like to be this time of the year but they’ve certainly got enough talent to be a good side.”
Hinkley knows the Cats go out as the hunted each week but he believes that is something this Geelong side relishes.
“I suppose every club wants to take you on and have a go at the side who’s noted as the top side in the competition … that’s a challenge in itself and one that I think our players really enjoy,” he said.
Once reserved solely for the Collingwood-Essendon clash, ANZAC Day will also feature Friday’s match at Subiaco and Hinkley said Freo’s annual Len Hall match would be a special occasion.
“It’s a big day in the country and I’m sure they’re [players] looking forward to playing on that day and hopefully putting on a display that’s worthy,” he said.
Cameron Ling was at Melbourne Airport for the Cats departure and will be fine to take his place in the line-up, while Hinkley said Ottens was on track to return to football next week.
