EXCLUSIVE: Toby Greene’s Playful Appeal for Harley Reid to Sign with the Giants in Sydney

The GWS Giants playfully leveraged their banner to jest about potentially attracting out-of-contract Harley Reid ahead of last week’s matchup against the Eagles. However, captain Toby Greene makes a compelling argument for why the teen talent should consider a move to Sydney.

The attention surrounding Reid has been immense, even before he was drafted in 2023. Speculation ran rampant, with some suggesting that West Coast should steer clear of him due to concerns over his potential flight risk, alongside inquiries regarding his fitness and maturity, culminating in uncertainty about his future in Perth.

Reid has been a fixture on the back pages in Western Australia, igniting discussions in various footy circles. Giants skipper Greene has highlighted how a move to Sydney could represent a perfect opportunity for the promising player.

“My argument would be—mate, your experience here would be a complete change from what you’re facing in Perth,” Greene stated during an interview with Wide World of Sports, in his capacity as a Toyota ambassador.

“If constant attention is what you’re fond of, then Perth is for you. But if you’d rather enjoy stunning weather, beautiful beaches, and play in a competitive team without being interrupted when you pop into a café, then the Giants are your best bet, mate.”

This season has been a mixed bag for Reid. He ignited a melee with Caleb Serong during the western derby, which left his former coach Adam Simpson unimpressed, and he even responded to a heckling Brisbane supporter with a gesture. However, he demonstrated his adaptability during his recent performance in the half-back line.

Greene, who faced his share of controversies early in his career, believes that the best advice for the 19-year-old is to surround himself with positive influences and learn from any errors he makes.

“I don’t think many players can truly grasp what he’s navigating. Throughout parts of my career, I could relate to that scrutiny,” Greene remarked.

“It’s all about having the right people in your corner. Surround yourself with good company, meet with supportive friends, learn the lessons, and focus on improving your game while letting that speak for itself.

“He’s a good bloke with a fun-loving nature, and he just needs to keep good company; he’ll be alright.”

The GWS captain was pleased with Reid’s recent display against his team, urging observers to give him ample time to mature.

“He did reasonably well. It was a challenging day for the Eagles; they’re a young team still developing, just as he is. He has ample opportunity to refine his skills—this is his second year, and he’ll just need some time,” Greene commented.

“He’s not exactly a complete AFL player yet. While he’s got a great feel for the game and impressive strength, he’s one to watch over the next few years as he continues to improve.”

The Giants are preparing for Gather Round, where they will take on a formidable St Kilda side.

Greene is enthusiastic about the concept and believes South Australia has executed it superbly.

“I love Gather Round. It was a fantastic initiative, and it’s been executed really well in Adelaide,” he said.

“For fans and youngsters, the atmosphere is incredible. The city is alive, and it’s so easy to attend multiple games there; they really know how to pull it off.”

“I was quite optimistic about Sydney hosting Gather Round before Adelaide did, but after witnessing it in Adelaide, they really set the bar high—it would be hard to compete with that.”

Greene is confident that Opening Round adequately showcases Sydney while being content for South Australia to retain Gather Round.

Greene believes that opening rounds help exhibit Sydney effectively and is content for South Australia to continue hosting Gather Round.

“It would be an excellent addition for footy in Sydney. I’m happy with Sydney showcasing the Opening Round while Adelaide retains Gather Round,” he stated.

“It would be intriguing to see how it plays out in Sydney, but Adelaide currently executes it exceptionally well.”

“It introduces us to the market early, creating buzz. A fair few AFL personalities are present in Sydney during the Opening Round weekend, especially with big Melbourne clubs visiting—it’s quite beneficial.”

“It’s a fantastic way to commence the season. Though some in Victoria may oppose it, there are significant benefits that they may overlook.”

In light of their upcoming matches in South Australia over the next fortnight, Greene confirmed that the Giants will return home before heading back to Adelaide after Gather Round. This differs from St Kilda’s strategy, which involves remaining in Adelaide prior to Round 5.

“We discussed it, but we thought since we do a lot of travelling, it’s best to return home for four days and then head back to Adelaide,” Greene explained.

“We’re accustomed to back-to-back travel, so it’s manageable, and we’re glad to get home for a few days before going back.”

The Giants have developed a playful dynamic with Collingwood, especially after reports surfaced about the Magpies’ reluctance to partake in Opening Round anymore.

The Pies are preparing for two consecutive interstate games, starting in South Australia for Gather Round before facing Brisbane at the Gabba as Easter approaches.

Greene, likely one of the most seasoned players in terms of consecutive away games in the league, offered some advice to Collingwood.

“Just embrace it! It’ll be an enjoyable experience for them!” he said.

With thoughts of South Australia on his mind, the GWS captain dreamt of an ideal road trip through regional SA and into Western Australia.

“That would be an incredible road trip through regional South Australia. I’d love to take the new Toyota Prado and drive all the way to WA along that coastline. I’ve heard it’s breathtaking,” Greene revealed.

“It’s definitely on my bucket list for after football, as I keep hearing amazing feedback.

“I’d take my surfboard, although I’d be a bit wary of encountering great whites!”