Emerging GIANTS midfielder Harry Rowston says he’s entering the 2026 season with a point to prove as he looks to cement his place in Adam Kingsley’s best side. 

A GIANTS Academy product drafted with pick 16 in the 2022 Draft, Rowston has continued to work hard for his opportunities at AFL level where last year he enjoyed a breakout campaign to feature in nine straight games in the back half of the season. 

But despite his strong performances as both a midfielder and a forward, Rowston’s time in the AFL side came to a halt at the end of the home and away season after being omitted for the club’s Elimination Final clash with the Hawks.  

That omission has since become the driving force behind his summer. 

“Obviously it was nice to string a few games together and play some decent footy. It gives me massive confidence,” Rowston said.  

“But then the disappointment of missing out on that final really lit the fire in the belly so I came back with that fire ready to go and so ready for a big season this year.” 

The tough inside midfielder says there was a clear focus over the summer to help with his search of more senior opportunities this season.  

“Continuing to work on my fitness has always been the thing that ‘Kingers’ [Head Coach Adam Kingsley] and the coaches have been into me about,” he said.  

“So I’ve continued to get as fit as I possibly can which I feel I’ve done, and I feel I’ve put myself in a really good spot to attack the year. 

“It was a pretty tough pre-season this year,” he added.  

“Obviously I’m getting into my fourth year now, so I was in everything and didn’t miss a session. So it’s been tough, but the body has been feeling good, and I feel I’ve been training alright and feel fit and ready to go for the season.”  

Rowston is likely set for increased opportunities following the recent news that star teammate Tom Green will miss the entire 2026 season with a ruptured ACL. 

While Green’s absence is a major loss, it reshapes the midfield mix and opens the door for others to step up. 

“I felt sick when he went down,” Rowston said of Green’s knee injury. 

“You feel for him and anyone who has to go through that, it’s a horrible thing. 

“As ‘Kingers’ has mentioned, it opens up opportunities for myself, and Jack Ough as well, so it’s about trying to grasp that with both hands. 

“If I’m lucky enough to get the opportunity to play, hopefully I can take it with both hands and play as good as I can and hopefully run throughout the season with it.” 

With the GIANTS set to take on the Pies in a practice match this Friday in Victoria and the Swans in Sydney next Thursday, Rowston is raring to go as the club counts down the days until its huge Opening Round clash with the Hawks at ENGIE Stadium on Saturday, March 7. 

“I’m so excited - footy is back,” Rowston said.  

“I can’t wait to get into it and get out there and chase the footy around - everyone is pumped. 

“We have a few praccy matches and then into Opening Round where we get to get one back on the Hawks hopefully. 

“So get your tickets if you haven’t already because it’s going to be a good game and I can’t wait for it.”