Western Bulldogs defender Rory Lobb says he is confident in the team’s depth heading into 2026.
Set to reach his 200th game milestone in the first game of the new season, Lobb will become the most senior defender on the Dogs’ list – despite being only 18 months into the role.
He said he felt reinvigorated by the move.
“Since moving down back, it’s the happiest I’ve been at a football club – it’s such an amazing environment that guys like Bont, Libba, Bevo have created here,” he told media on Day 3 of the ASICS Pre-Season.
“I was always happy at this club, but I just wasn’t playing consistent football at the start (of my time) here.
“Now that I’m back, I feel like I could play another 5+ years. Hopefully I’ve got a few more in me but I’m loving the environment here.
“We’ve got such a good group (of defenders) with some young guys…we lost a bit of experience with Taylor Duryea and Liam Jones going out, obviously JJ as well, but having played a year and a half down there now I feel a lot more confident to take charge.
“Even having guys like Bailey Dale who has really stepped up into that leadership role, and then James O’Donnell, Jedd Busslinger who are so young and only just scratching the surface in terms of what they’re capable of.
“The back six is a really good core. We’re only going to get better.”
Having just fallen short of a finals berth this year, the Bulldogs will be looking to take a step further next season.
Lobb said being able to arrest momentum in-games will help the team contend again.
“In the close games, stemming the flow of the opposition (is critical),” he said.
“You can’t have a quarter where the team kicks five in a row on you. You have to find ways to stop them – being a little bit unpredictable in the contest at times.
“We were in every game we played. It’s about bridging the gap in finishing those and getting over the line.”
Off-field, Lobb’s hair colours and patterns are sure to remain a talking point.
“I went pink for Day 1 on Monday and since swimming in the pool, the chlorine has stripped it out, so I might not be able to do any colours until I stop swimming,” he explained of his freshly bleached buzz cut.
“I’m looking to work with a few more charities this year and just having a bit of fun with the fans.
“I’ve got a few ideas but will see if I can get them over the line with my wife.”
