Matthew Robbins

Recruited by Geelong with pick 36 in the 1994 National Draft, Matthew Robbins struggled to cement a regular spot in the Cats' senior lineup, managing just seven games across two seasons. He was traded to the Western Bulldogs ahead of the 1998 season, where he initially carved out a role as a tenacious small defender and tagger. His early years at the Whitten Oval were often interrupted by persistent soft-tissue injuries, but his defensive accountability and desperation eventually saw him become a fixture in the side.

Robbins played his best football late in his career after a permanent switch to the forward line under coach Rodney Eade. Renowned for his explosive vertical leap, he became a dangerous aerial threat despite his lack of height, serving as an effective foil for captain Brad Johnson. He is best remembered for a spectacular one-handed mark over a pack against the Brisbane Lions in 2005, a grab that remains a highlight of the era. After booting a career-high 45 goals in 2006, he struggled to hold his place the following season and retired at the end of 2007, sharing his farewell lap with club stalwart Luke Darcy.