There’s something special about being a Geelong Cats fan. Maybe it’s the navy blue and white hoops that feel like family. Maybe it’s the way Kardinia Park—our beloved GMHBA Stadium—turns into a fortress on game day. Or maybe it’s the simple fact that this club knows how to win when it matters most.
Over the decades, the Cats have built one of the most impressive resumes in the Australian Football League. From the heartbreak of near-misses to the pure joy of premiership glory, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable. So, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and explore the Geelong Cats premiership history—the flags, the legends, and the moments that made us who we are.
If you’re new to the club or a lifelong supporter, this guide is your one-stop shop for understanding how Geelong became a powerhouse. And if you want to dive deeper into specific seasons, check out our championship history page for a full timeline.
The Early Days: Building a Foundation
Before the AFL became the juggernaut it is today, the Cats were already making noise. Geelong’s first taste of premiership success came way back in 1925, when the club claimed its first flag in the Victorian Football League (VFL), the precursor to today’s AFL. That win wasn’t just a victory—it was a statement. It told the competition that this regional club from the Bellarine Peninsula could compete with the big-city teams.
Then came 1931. The Cats repeated the feat, winning their second premiership in a dominant era. These early flags were built on grit, teamwork, and a deep connection to the local community—values that still define Geelong today.
But here’s the thing: after those early successes, the premierships dried up for a while. The Cats went through decades of near-misses, finishing runners-up in 1952, 1963, and 1967. Each loss stung, but it also fueled a hunger that would eventually pay off.
The Drought Breaks: 2007 and the Modern Era
Fast forward to 2007. If you’re a Geelong fan, you remember that season like it was yesterday. The Cats were unstoppable. They finished the home-and-away season with a record of 18 wins and 4 losses, then steamrolled through the AFL Finals Series.
The AFL Grand Final against Port Adelaide was a masterclass. Final score: Geelong 24.19 (163) to Port Adelaide 6.8 (44). That’s a 119-point demolition—the biggest winning margin in Grand Final history at the time. It wasn’t just a win; it was a declaration. The Cats were back, and they weren’t going anywhere.
That 2007 flag broke a 44-year drought. For fans who had waited since 1963, it was pure catharsis. The team was led by a young core that would go on to define an era: Joel Selwood, Tom Hawkins, and a supporting cast of stars like Gary Ablett Jr. and Jimmy Bartel.
What Made 2007 Special?
- Dominance: The Cats won 15 consecutive games at one point.
- Teamwork: No single player carried the load; it was a collective effort.
- The Prelim Final: A thrilling win over Collingwood set the stage for Grand Final glory.
Back-to-Back Glory: 2009 and 2011
The Cats didn’t rest on their laurels. In 2009, they returned to the AFL Grand Final, this time facing the St Kilda Saints in a nail-biter. The game went down to the wire, with Geelong winning by just 12 points. It was a testament to the team’s composure under pressure.
Then came 2011. The Cats faced Collingwood—the reigning premiers—in a Grand Final for the ages. Geelong trailed at halftime but stormed home in the second half to win by 38 points. That flag was particularly sweet because it came against a rival that had dominated the season.
Key Players of the Era
- Joel Selwood: The former captain was the heartbeat of the team. His courage and leadership set the standard.
- Tom Hawkins: Nicknamed “Tomahawk,” he became one of the most dominant forwards in the game.
- Patrick Dangerfield: While Dangerfield joined the Cats later (2016), his influence in the modern era is undeniable. He’s a Brownlow Medal winner and a midfield powerhouse.
The Near-Misses and the Resilience
Not every season ends with a flag. The Cats have had their share of heartbreak in the AFL Finals Series. In 2012, they lost a classic preliminary final to Hawthorn. In 2013, they fell short again. The 2010s were a decade of “almost” for Geelong, with multiple top-four finishes but only one premiership (2011).
But here’s what sets the Cats apart: they never rebuild; they reload. While other clubs bottom out for draft picks, Geelong consistently stays competitive. This is thanks to a strong culture, smart recruitment via the AFL Draft, and a development system that turns raw talent into stars.
The Kardinia Park Factor
You can’t talk about Geelong’s resilience without mentioning the home ground advantage. Kardinia Park has undergone a massive transformation in recent years. The Kardinia Park Redevelopment added new stands, upgraded facilities, and increased capacity. Today, GMHBA Stadium is a fortress where opposing teams dread playing.
The stadium upgrade wasn’t just about comfort—it was about creating a winning environment. When the Cats play at home, they’re backed by a passionate crowd that knows the game. That energy translates into results.
The 2022 Premiership: A New Chapter
After a decade of near-misses, the Cats returned to the summit in 2022. This flag was special for so many reasons. It marked the first premiership under Coach Scott—Chris Scott, who had taken over in 2011 and built a dynasty.
The 2022 AFL Grand Final against the Sydney Swans was a masterclass in modern footy. Geelong dominated from start to finish, winning by 81 points. It was a fitting reward for a team that had finished on top of the ladder and played relentless, attacking football all season.
Why 2022 Stands Out
- Experience Meets Youth: The team blended veterans like Selwood and Hawkins with young guns like Jeremy Cameron and Tom Stewart.
- Coach Scott’s Legacy: Chris Scott cemented his reputation as one of the best coaches in the AFL. His game plan was perfectly executed.
- The Selwood Farewell: Joel Selwood retired after the 2022 season, going out on the ultimate high. His leadership was instrumental in the flag run.
The Modern Era: What’s Next for Geelong?
As we look ahead to the 2025 AFL Season, the Cats are in a fascinating position. The core that won the 2022 flag is still intact, but change is coming. Joel Selwood has retired, and Tom Hawkins is in the twilight of his career. Patrick Dangerfield, now a veteran, is still playing at an elite level.
So, how do the Cats stay relevant?
The Draft and Development
Geelong has always been smart in the AFL Draft. They find value late in the draft and develop players through the Geelong VFL program. The reserves team is a crucial part of the system, giving young players game time and preparing them for AFL action.
The Future Stars
Keep an eye on players like Max Holmes, Tanner Bruhn, and Jhye Clark. These young guns are the next generation of Cats stars. If they develop as expected, Geelong will remain a contender for years to come.
The 2025 Season
The 2025 AFL Season is shaping up to be a pivotal one. Can the Cats challenge for another flag? If history is any guide, you’d be foolish to count them out. This club knows how to win, and they’re never satisfied with just one premiership.
Practical Tips for Fans
Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a new convert, here are a few ways to deepen your connection to the Geelong Cats:
- Attend a game at Kardinia Park: There’s nothing like the atmosphere at GMHBA Stadium. Get there early, grab a pie, and soak it in.
- Follow the draft: The AFL Draft is where future legends are born. Keep an eye on the Cats’ picks and trades.
- Watch the VFL: The Geelong VFL team is a breeding ground for future stars. Catch a game to see the next generation.
- Read the history: Our championship history page is packed with stories, stats, and memories.
The Geelong Cats premiership history is a story of resilience, excellence, and community. From the early flags in the 1920s and 1930s to the modern dynasty of 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2022, this club has given its fans moments of pure joy.
But the story isn’t over. With a strong culture, a smart recruitment strategy, and a home ground that’s second to none, the Cats are poised for more success. Whether you’re celebrating past glories or looking ahead to the 2025 AFL Season, there’s never been a better time to be a Geelong fan.
So, wear the hoops with pride. Sing the song with passion. And remember: in Geelong, premierships aren’t just memories—they’re a way of life.
Want to dive deeper? Explore our 2009 premiership and 2022 premiership articles for more stories from the Cats’ golden eras.
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