AFL 2026: Rowan Marshall speaks for the first time after trade to Geelong

The lure of joining Geelong’s winning machine was too strong for Rowan Marshall to resist.

Marshall secured his trade wish out of St Kilda at the second attempt after the Cats finally loosened their grip on pick 14.

Geelong insisted it would not surrender a first-round selection but eventually decided one of the game’s premier ruckmen was worth more.

The Cats received Marshall and a 2028 third-round selection in return from the Saints.

Marshall, speaking as a Cat for the first time, said success played a major factor in his appetite to join Geelong.

“You hear a lot externally about how good the program is and they’re obviously such a successful club,” Marshall said.

“I’m looking forward to getting down there, getting to work with Mitch Edwards, who is such a promising young ruck … hopefully be part of a successful team.”

Marshall sought the same trade last year but was ultimately held to his contract.

“I was pretty shattered at the time to miss out on getting to the Cats last year, but I moved on and (I’m) happy that it worked out a second time around,” he said.

“I loved eventually getting back into St Kilda, I’ve got so many close mates down there, lifelong mates, that made it easier and I actually really enjoyed my year down there.

“I would’ve liked a little bit more success and you certainly get envious of the teams in finals this time of the year, but I loved my time at the Saints.”

Marshall did not attend the Trevor Barker Medal – St Kilda’s best and fairest – on Monday night after requesting his trade.

The 30-year-old said he was not comfortable discussing his future with so many people.

“I had no idea it would blow up like it did, to be honest,” Marshall said.