If you’ve ever watched a Geelong Cats game and wondered who the real stars are—the ones who consistently dominate, week in and week out—you’ve probably heard the name Brownlow Medal thrown around. It’s the AFL’s highest individual honor, the equivalent of the MVP award in other sports, and it carries a weight that few other accolades can match.
For Cats fans, the Brownlow is more than just a medal. It’s a measure of greatness, a badge of consistency, and a source of pride that connects the modern era with the club’s rich history. From the legendary figures of the past to the modern-day superstars who still wear the blue and white, Geelong has produced some of the most decorated Brownlow Medalists in AFL history.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Geelong Cats Brownlow Medalists—who they are, what it takes to win, and why this award matters so much to the club and its supporters. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just getting started with the Cats, this is your ultimate resource.
Let’s dive in.
What Is the Brownlow Medal?
Before we get into the Cats’ history, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. The Brownlow Medal is awarded annually to the player judged best and fairest in the AFL competition. It’s voted on by field umpires after each game, with three votes for the best player, two for the second-best, and one for the third-best. At the end of the season, the player with the most votes wins.
It’s not just about talent—it’s about fairness, sportsmanship, and consistency. That’s why winning a Brownlow is such a big deal. It means you’ve been the best player on the ground more often than anyone else, while also playing the game the right way.
For the Geelong Cats, the Brownlow has been a recurring theme. The club has produced multiple winners, and some of the most memorable moments in Cats history are tied to this award.
Geelong Cats Brownlow Medalists: The Complete List
Let’s start with the names that matter. Here are all the Geelong players who have won the Brownlow Medal while wearing the blue and white hoops:
| Year | Player | Votes |
|---|---|---|
| 1954 | John O’Mahony | 21 |
| 1963 | Brian Roberts | 20 |
| 1985 | Greg Williams | 25 |
| 1995 | Paul Couch | 21 |
| 2004 | Jimmy Bartel | 26 |
| 2007 | Jimmy Bartel (tied) | 29 |
| 2008 | Gary Ablett Jr. | 26 |
| 2009 | Gary Ablett Jr. | 30 |
| 2013 | Gary Ablett Jr. (while at Gold Coast) | N/A (Cats connection) |
| 2017 | Patrick Dangerfield | 35 |
| 2019 | Patrick Dangerfield (tied) | 29 |
Note: Gary Ablett Jr. won his third Brownlow in 2013 after moving to Gold Coast, but his legacy with the Cats remains immense. We’ll focus on the players who won while at Geelong.
Section 1: The Early Pioneers (1950s–1980s)
John O’Mahony (1954)
The first Geelong Cats player to win the Brownlow Medal was John O’Mahony in 1954. O’Mahony was a rugged, hard-working defender who played 195 games for the club. His Brownlow win came in a season where the Cats also won the AFL Premiership—a rare double that only a handful of players have achieved.
O’Mahony’s win set the standard for future Cats. It proved that even a defender could win the league’s highest individual honor, and it showed that Geelong was a club capable of producing champions.
Brian Roberts (1963)
Nearly a decade later, Brian Roberts became the second Cats player to win the Brownlow. Roberts was a versatile midfielder-forward who kicked 130 goals in his career. His 1963 season was outstanding, and his Brownlow win helped cement Geelong’s reputation as a club that valued consistency and skill.
Greg Williams (1985)
Fast forward to 1985, and Greg Williams won the Brownlow with 25 votes. Williams was a brilliant ball-winner, known for his clean hands and ability to read the play. He played 134 games for the Cats before moving to Sydney, but his Brownlow win remains a highlight of Geelong’s 1980s era.
Section 2: The Modern Era (1990s–2000s)
Paul Couch (1995)
Paul Couch was a fan favorite and one of the most consistent midfielders of the 1990s. His Brownlow win in 1995 came at a time when the Cats were building toward greatness. Couch’s ability to accumulate possessions and use the ball wisely made him a perfect fit for the award.
Couch’s win also marked a turning point for the club. It showed that Geelong could produce elite talent even during leaner years, and it gave fans hope for the future.
Jimmy Bartel (2004, 2007)
Jimmy Bartel is one of the most beloved figures in Geelong history. He won the Brownlow in 2004 with 26 votes, then tied for the award in 2007 with 29 votes. Bartel was the ultimate team player—tough, smart, and selfless. He could play midfield, forward, or even defense, and he always seemed to make the right decision.
Bartel’s 2007 Brownlow win was especially sweet because it came during a season where the Cats won the AFL Grand Final and the AFL Premiership. Bartel was a key part of that dominant team, and his Brownlow win was a reflection of his incredible consistency.
Gary Ablett Jr. (2008, 2009)
Gary Ablett Jr. needs no introduction. He is arguably the greatest player of his generation, and his two Brownlow wins with the Cats (2008 and 2009) are legendary. In 2008, he won with 26 votes; in 2009, he won with 30 votes—a phenomenal tally.
Ablett Jr. was the complete package: explosive speed, elite skills, and a football IQ that was off the charts. His ability to win the ball and then deliver it perfectly to teammates made him a nightmare for opponents. His Brownlow wins were a testament to his dominance during Geelong’s golden era.
Section 3: The Patrick Dangerfield Era (2017–Present)
Patrick Dangerfield (2017, 2019)
When Patrick Dangerfield joined the Cats via the AFL Draft trade in 2016, expectations were sky-high. He didn’t disappoint. In 2017, Dangerfield won the Brownlow with 35 votes—one of the highest totals in history. He followed that up with a tied win in 2019 with 29 votes.
Dangerfield is a powerhouse midfielder who combines brute strength with elite speed and skill. His ability to break tackles, win clearances, and hit the scoreboard makes him one of the most dangerous players in the league. His Brownlow wins have solidified his place among the all-time greats.
Why Dangerfield’s Wins Matter
Dangerfield’s Brownlow wins are significant because they came during a period of transition for the Cats. The club was rebuilding around a new core, and Dangerfield’s leadership—alongside Joel Selwood and Tom Hawkins—helped keep Geelong competitive. His wins also showed that the Cats could still produce elite talent, even as the competition got tougher.
Section 4: What It Takes to Win a Brownlow for the Cats
Winning a Brownlow Medal is incredibly difficult. Here’s what the Geelong Cats Brownlow Medalists have in common:
- Consistency: You can’t win a Brownlow with a few great games. You need to be among the best on the ground week after week.
- Fairness: The award is for the “best and fairest,” so players who are suspended or penalized for rough play are often ruled out.
- Team Success: While individual performance matters, players on winning teams tend to get more votes. That’s why many Cats Brownlow winners have also been part of AFL Premiership teams.
- Versatility: Many Cats winners can play multiple positions, which makes them harder to stop and more valuable to the team.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Players
If you’re a young player dreaming of winning a Brownlow for the Cats, here’s some advice:
- Focus on fundamentals: Ball handling, decision-making, and fitness are non-negotiable.
- Play the team game: Brownlow voters love players who make teammates better.
- Stay disciplined: Avoid suspensions and keep your cool under pressure.
- Learn from the best: Watch footage of Gary Ablett Jr. and Patrick Dangerfield to see how they dominate.
Section 5: The Role of the Club in Brownlow Success
The Geelong Cats have a unique culture that breeds Brownlow winners. Here’s why:
- Strong development system: The Cats are known for developing talent through the AFL Draft and their Geelong VFL program. Many Brownlow winners started as raw recruits and were molded into stars.
- Stable coaching: Under Chris Scott, the Cats have maintained a consistent game plan that rewards individual brilliance within a team framework.
- Home ground advantage: Playing at Kardinia Park (also known as GMHBA Stadium) gives Cats players a familiar environment where they can thrive.
- Supportive culture: The club prioritizes player welfare and mental health, which helps players stay focused and perform at their best.
The Kardinia Park Redevelopment
The ongoing Kardinia Park Redevelopment has also played a role. Upgraded facilities, better training grounds, and a louder home crowd have all contributed to a winning environment. When players feel supported, they’re more likely to perform at an elite level.
Section 6: Brownlow Winners and the AFL Finals Series
One interesting trend among Geelong Cats Brownlow Medalists is their performance in the AFL Finals Series. Many winners have gone on to dominate in the postseason, proving that their regular-season form was no fluke.
- Jimmy Bartel was a finals specialist, winning the Norm Smith Medal in the 2011 AFL Grand Final.
- Patrick Dangerfield has been a consistent finals performer, often lifting his game when it matters most.
- Gary Ablett Jr. was instrumental in the Cats’ 2009 premiership run, which included a stunning Grand Final victory.
Section 7: The Future of Brownlow Winners at Geelong
As the 2025 AFL Season approaches, the question on every fan’s mind is: Who will be the next Geelong Cats Brownlow Medalist?
The current squad has several candidates:
- Patrick Dangerfield is still elite, though age may reduce his chances.
- Tom Hawkins is a forward, which makes it harder to win votes (forwards rarely win Brownlows).
- Joel Selwood (now retired) was a perennial contender but never won.
- Young stars like Max Holmes and Tanner Bruhn are developing and could be future contenders.
Conclusion: Why the Brownlow Matters to Geelong Cats Fans
The Brownlow Medal is more than just a trophy. For Geelong Cats fans, it’s a symbol of excellence, consistency, and the club’s enduring legacy. From John O’Mahony in 1954 to Patrick Dangerfield in 2019, each winner has added to the rich tapestry of Cats history.
Whether you’re watching the Brownlow count on a Monday night or reminiscing about past glories, remember that these players are part of something special. They represent the best of the AFL and the best of the Geelong Cats.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re new to the Cats or want to deepen your knowledge, check out these guides:
- Getting Started with the Geelong Cats
- How to Follow AFL Like a Pro
- A Complete Guide to Geelong’s Premiership Years
Go Cats!
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