The anticipation is building. As the 2025 AFL Season approaches, Geelong Cats fans are buzzing with a mix of hope, curiosity, and that familiar sense of expectation that comes with supporting one of the AFL’s most consistent powerhouses. After a 2024 campaign that had its ups and downs, the Cats are poised to make another serious run at the AFL Premiership. But what does the upcoming season really hold? Let’s break down everything you need to know—from list changes and key milestones to the biggest questions facing Chris Scott’s squad.
Why This Season Matters More Than Most
Look, every season matters in Geelong. But 2025 feels different. The Cats are navigating a fascinating transition period—blending the experience of legends who’ve delivered multiple flags with a wave of exciting young talent emerging through the AFL Draft and Geelong VFL system. There’s also the ongoing Kardinia Park Redevelopment, which continues to transform GMHBA Stadium into one of the competition’s most formidable fortresses. Add in the fact that several veteran stars are entering the twilight of their careers, and you’ve got a season that could define the next era of Geelong football.
This isn’t just another year. It’s a statement season.
The 2024 Season: A Quick Recap and Lessons Learned
Before we look ahead, it’s worth reflecting on where the Cats stand. The 2024 season was a tale of two halves. Geeling started strong, sitting comfortably in the top four mid-year, but inconsistency crept in during the second half. Injuries to key personnel—including Patrick Dangerfield missing several weeks—exposed some depth issues, and the Cats ultimately fell short in the AFL Finals Series, bowing out in a semi-final that felt winnable.
Key takeaways from 2024:
- Defensive structure held up well, but midfield pressure dropped in big games.
- The forward line relied heavily on Tom Hawkins, who battled through niggling injuries.
- Young guns showed flashes but lacked consistency in high-stakes matches.
- The Cats’ ability to win close games—once a hallmark—wavered.
List Changes: Who’s In, Who’s Out, and Who’s Stepping Up
Departures and Retirements
Every off-season brings change, and the Cats bid farewell to a few familiar faces. While no massive shocks occurred, the departures of several role players opened up list spots. The most notable loss was a seasoned defender who provided reliable depth, but the Cats are confident their young backline talent can fill the void.
Arrivals via Trade and AFL Draft
Geelong was relatively quiet during the trade period compared to some rivals, but that’s by design. The club prioritised the AFL Draft, and early indications suggest they nailed their selections. The Cats added two promising midfielders with elite ball use and a key-position prospect who could develop into a long-term Tom Hawkins replacement.
Draft highlights:
- Pick 18: A dynamic midfielder with breakaway speed and a penetrating kick.
- Pick 36: A versatile tall who can play forward or back.
- Rookie selection: A mature-age recruit from the Geelong VFL program who impressed in the reserves.
The Rising Stars to Watch
If you’re a Cats fan, you should be excited about the next wave. Several young players are primed for breakout seasons:
- Max Holmes – Already a fan favourite, Holmes’s explosive speed and composure make him a genuine midfield weapon. Expect him to take another leap.
- Tanner Bruhn – Acquired from GWS, Bruhn showed glimpses in 2024. A full pre-season under his belt could unlock consistent, high-impact performances.
- Ollie Dempsey – The Irish experiment has paid off. Dempsey’s athleticism and footy IQ are developing rapidly, and he could become a regular in the forward line.
- Mitch Knevitt – A big-bodied midfielder who’s been building through the VFL team. He’s ready for senior opportunities.
Key Players to Watch in 2025
Patrick Dangerfield: Still the Engine Room
Even as he enters his mid-30s, Patrick Dangerfield remains one of the AFL’s most influential players. When fit, he’s a game-changer—capable of winning a match off his own boot. The key for Dangerfield in 2025 is managing his workload. The Cats have been careful with his training loads, and with a deeper midfield rotation, he can be deployed more surgically rather than carrying the team every week.
Prediction: Dangerfield plays 18-20 games, averages 25+ disposals, and polls Brownlow Medal votes in at least five matches. He’s still elite.
Tom Hawkins: The Final Chapter?
Tom Hawkins is a Geelong icon. The big forward has been the focal point of the Cats’ attack for over a decade, and his contested marking remains elite. But at 36 years old, questions about longevity are inevitable. Hawkins has managed his body well, and the club has invested in support around him—Jeremy Cameron is the obvious partner, but younger forwards like Shannon Neale and Ollie Henry will need to step up.
Prediction: Hawkins kicks 40-45 goals, plays a vital structural role, and retires at season’s end with a fourth AFL Premiership medal. Yes, I’m going there.
The Next Captain: Life After Joel Selwood
Joel Selwood’s retirement left a leadership void that’s been filled admirably by the current leadership group. But the Cats are still defining their identity without the legendary former captain. Expect Chris Scott to lean on a collective approach, with Dangerfield, Mark Blicavs, and Tom Stewart forming the core leadership spine.
Key question: Who becomes the symbolic on-field leader? My money is on Stewart—his composure and decision-making are Selwood-esque.
Tactical Evolution: How Will Chris Scott Adapt?
Chris Scott is already one of the most successful coaches in AFL history, but he’s not resting on his laurels. The 2025 Geelong Cats will likely feature some tactical tweaks designed to counter the league’s evolving trends.
Faster Ball Movement
One criticism of the Cats in 2024 was their slow, methodical build-up play. While it worked when they controlled possession, it left them vulnerable against high-pressure teams. Expect Geelong to prioritise faster ball movement from defence, using the speed of Holmes and Stewart to break lines.
Midfield Rotation Depth
The Cats have historically relied on a core group of midfielders, but that’s changing. With Bruhn, Knevitt, and Holmes demanding more minutes, Chris Scott can rotate more freely. This keeps legs fresh and makes the Cats less predictable.
The Ruck Conundrum
Rhys Stanley remains the first-choice ruckman, but his injury history is a concern. The Cats have developed Toby Conway through the VFL, and he’s pushing for senior selection. A two-ruck setup might be deployed in certain matchups, giving Geelong a height advantage around the ground.
The Home Ground Advantage: Kardinia Park
If there’s one factor that separates Geelong from most rivals, it’s the fortress that is GMHBA Stadium. The Kardinia Park Redevelopment has transformed the venue into a state-of-the-art facility with increased capacity and improved amenities. The Cats have an outstanding record at home, and 2025 should be no different.
Why Kardinia Park matters:
- The narrower ground suits Geelong’s contested style.
- Crowd support is vocal and knowledgeable.
- Travel fatigue for opponents is a real factor.
Season Predictions: Ladder Position and Finals Prospects
Let’s get to the part everyone wants to read—predictions. I’ll be honest: predicting AFL seasons is a fool’s errand, but that’s never stopped us before.
Ladder Forecast
The 2025 AFL Season looks incredibly competitive. Defending premiers Collingwood will be strong. Brisbane is stacked. Melbourne has elite talent. And Western Sydney is on the rise. Where do the Cats fit?
My prediction: Geelong finishes 4th on the ladder, with a 15-8 record.
Why 4th? The Cats have the talent to challenge for top two, but the midfield depth concerns and an aging forward line create some inconsistency. A top-four finish is achievable and would secure a double chance in the AFL Finals Series.
Finals Performance
Once in September, anything can happen. The Cats have the experience, the coach, and the home ground advantage to make a deep run. If they stay healthy—particularly Dangerfield and Hawkins—they’re a genuine premiership threat.
Bold prediction: Geelong reaches the AFL Grand Final and wins the AFL Premiership.
Yes, I’m drinking the Kool-Aid. But here’s the logic: the Cats have a favourable draw, a motivated list, and a chip on their shoulder after 2024’s disappointment. Chris Scott is a master at peaking at the right time. And with the Kardinia Park crowd behind them, the Cats could be unstoppable in September.
Key Milestones and Storylines to Follow
300 Games for Tom Hawkins
Hawkins will reach the 300-game milestone in 2025, joining an elite group of Geelong legends. Expect a massive celebration at GMHBA Stadium when it happens. It’s a moment that underscores his incredible longevity and loyalty.
Brownlow Medal Hopes
Could a Cat win the Brownlow Medal? Patrick Dangerfield is always a chance, but his injury history works against him. Max Holmes is a dark horse if he has a breakout season. More realistically, the Cats will spread votes across multiple players, making a winner unlikely but not impossible.
The Geelong VFL Connection
The Geelong VFL program continues to produce AFL-ready talent. Watch for players like Knevitt and Conway to force their way into the senior side through strong VFL form. The alignment between the two teams is stronger than ever.
Practical Tips for Cats Fans This Season
If you’re planning to follow the 2025 Geelong Cats closely, here are some practical tips:
- Get to GMHBA Stadium early – With the redevelopment, capacity is up, but so is demand. Buy tickets in advance for key matches.
- Follow the VFL team – The future stars are developing here. Watching the Geelong VFL gives you insight into who’s knocking on the door.
- Engage with the community – Join fan forums, attend open training sessions, and connect with other Cats supporters. The club’s culture extends beyond the field.
- Stay patient with young players – Breakouts don’t happen overnight. Trust the development system.
Conclusion: The 2025 Journey Begins Now
The 2025 AFL Season is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent memory for Geelong Cats fans. With a blend of veteran stars, emerging talent, and a coaching staff that knows how to win, the Cats have all the ingredients for a special campaign.
Will they deliver? That depends on injuries, form, and a little bit of luck. But one thing is certain: this team will compete. They’ll fight. And they’ll give their supporters every reason to believe.
So mark your calendars. Get your memberships sorted. And prepare for another rollercoaster ride at the Cattery.
Ready to dive deeper? Check out our getting started guide for new fans, stay updated with the latest trade rumours, and explore the rich history of the hoops.
Go Cats!
Reader Comments (0)