A CRAFTY, speedy small forward who plays in the mould of Kysaiah Pickett and Charlie Cameron, Raphael Geesu has talent to burn. The Brisbane Lions Academy member played in last year’s National Futures match and is hunting down an Allies berth in 2025, his top-age season.

We spoke to Geesu at this month’s Queensland preseason testing event.

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PRESEASON Q&A

Q: Raphael, how did you get started in football?

RG: I started off playing at Redland Victoria Point Sharks Under 6s, and then went through there playing in Under 6s, 8s, 12s, and then 15s before my first Met East carnival, which was up in Mackay. After that, I was lucky enough to get selected into the Lions Academy and I’ve been there ever since. 

Q: Who have been some of the mentors that have helped you along the way?

RG: I’ve had a few. I’ve got Alex Pope, and Dan Annable, then a few of my junior coaches like Corey Lambert. That’s mostly it.

Q: What kind of impact has the Lions Academy had on you?

RG: It’s been amazing. The Lions Academy has been huge for what they do for us, all the support and getting us out into the AFL [group] and letting us have a few sessions with them. They’ve been huge.

Q: How has preseason been so far?

RG: Preseason has been huge. I think I’m the fittest I’ve been and the strongest I’ve been. We’re just getting to work with the Academy boys and I think we’re looking good for a big year this year.

Q: How would you describe yourself as a player? 

RG: I’d say a bit shifty, unpredictable, and maybe a bit of fun.

Q: What are some of the strengths in your game?

RG: I think my ability to create and my chase-down speed.

Q: Are there any things you’re still looking to improve on?

RG: Well, I’m looking to get inside more, maybe a few more midfield minutes this year just to build my game.

Q: Which players to you enjoy watching and try to mould your game on?

RG: ‘Kozzie’ Pickett and Charlie Cameron.

Q: Which AFL club do you support?

RG: Brisbane Lions.

Q: Is there a teammate you think we should look out for to have a big season?

RG: Daniel Annable, 100 per cent. Also Isaac Waller, Harrison Bridge, and Ben Lillico.

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Q: What kind of goals have you set for the year?

RG: I want to have a good Academy Series that hopefully leads into a strong Allies campaign, and then the end goal is to hopefully get on an AFL list.

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