Harry Rowston rewards Giants’ faith with strong showing against Brisbane

Jackson Clark Published June 16, 2025 at 6.30pm (AWST)

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Harry Rowston performed solidly in the Giants' win over Brisbane on Saturday. Image: Phil Hillyard.

Emerging Greater Western Sydney midfielder Harry Rowston made the most of his long-awaited return to the AFL, playing a key role in the Giants' upset win over reigning premiers Brisbane on Saturday.

It marked the first time in 784 days that Rowston had been named in GWS's starting 22, and the 20-year-old did not waste the opportunity, providing a hard edge around the contest.

In just 62 per cent game time Rowston laid a match-high six tackles and collected 18 disposals in the Giants' 17.5 (107) to 13.18 (96) victory at the Gabba.

The First Nations on-baller told the club's media post-match that it was "amazing" to be back out there at AFL level.

"It's been a while since I've played, so it's just good to be back around the boys," he said.

"Win or lose, I'm just happy to be out there playing AFL football.

"It's always good to get your hands on the footy, but it was a great team effort today."

Rowston said his job was made easier by the strong performances of key forwards Jesse Hogan and Aaron Cadman, who combined for 11 goals.

"When you're going forward with the footy and you see those two up there, it's pretty eye-catching," he said.

"They've been playing amazing footy and starting to get some good chemistry going together, so it's going to be pretty dangerous going forward."

GWS midfielder Harry Rowston has played nine AFL games since debuting in 2023. (Image: Phil Hillyard)

Last weekend marked just the ninth senior appearance of Rowston's career, with seven of those coming in his debut season in 2023.

He endured a tough run in 2024, unable to break into the Giants' senior side before a back injury against crosstown rivals Sydney in the VFL brought his season to a premature end.

Rowston has now finally got his body right and is reaping the benefits of a strong pre-season having elevated his game to another level in 2025.

When not selected for the AFL team, Rowston has continued to impress at State League level, averaging 24 disposals and a goal per game as a powerful midfielder that has the ability to impact the scoreboard.

A product of the Giants Academy, Rowston grew up on a farm near Binya in New South Wales and was taken with pick 16 in the 2022 AFL Draft after GWS matched a bid from Sydney.

He signed a contract extension midway through last year, tying him to the club until at least the end of 2026.