When you think of the Geelong Cats, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the roar of the crowd at Kardinia Park, the sight of a blue-and-white hooped jumper charging through a pack, and the sheer weight of history that this club carries. Over the decades, the Cats have built a legacy that’s not just about wins and losses—it’s about moments that redefine what’s possible in the AFL. From individual feats that leave you shaking your head to team achievements that etch themselves into the record books, Geelong is a factory for the extraordinary.
In this guide, we’re diving into what makes the Cats record breakers. We’ll explore the players who’ve shattered milestones, the games that rewrote history, and the culture that keeps this club at the top. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just getting into the AFL, this is the story of how Geelong became synonymous with greatness. Let’s get into it.
The Culture of Breaking Records at Geelong
There’s something in the water at Geelong—or maybe it’s the salty air from Corio Bay. Whatever it is, the Cats have built a culture where breaking records isn’t an accident; it’s a habit. This isn’t a club that rests on past glories. From the moment you step into the Cattery, you feel the pressure to push boundaries. It’s a mindset that starts at the top with Chris Scott, the Geelong coach who’s masterminded some of the most consistent success in AFL history.
Under Coach Scott, the Cats have become a model of sustained excellence. They don’t just aim for the AFL Finals Series; they aim to dominate it. And that culture trickles down to every player. Joel Selwood, the former captain, embodied this with his relentless drive—he didn’t just want to win games, he wanted to redefine what leadership looked like. Tom Hawkins, the powerhouse forward known as Tomahawk, turned goal-kicking into an art form. And Patrick Dangerfield, with his explosive bursts, made the impossible look routine.
But it’s not just the stars. The Geelong VFL program feeds this hunger, developing talent that’s ready to step up. The AFL Draft has been a goldmine for the Cats, who consistently find gems that others overlook. This isn’t a club that chases quick fixes; it’s a club that builds dynasties.
Individual Record Breakers: The Players Who Defined Greatness
Joel Selwood: The Iron Captain
Let’s start with the man who wore the captain’s armband like a second skin. Joel Selwood isn’t just a record breaker; he’s the embodiment of what it means to be a Cat. His 355 games for the club are the most by any player in Geelong history, a testament to his durability and commitment. But it’s not just the quantity—it’s the quality. Selwood led the Cats to four AFL Premierships, including the 2022 flag that cemented his legacy.
What sets Selwood apart is his ability to lift when it matters most. In the AFL Finals Series, he was a machine, often dragging the team over the line with sheer will. His record for most finals wins by a player in VFL/AFL history? That’s 27 victories, a mark that may never be beaten. And let’s not forget his Brownlow Medal count—Selwood polled votes in 14 different seasons, a consistency that speaks to his class.
For Cats fans, Selwood is more than a stats sheet. He’s the bloke who never backed down, who played with a smile even when his body was broken. That’s the Selwood way.
Tom Hawkins: The Goal-Kicking Machine
If Selwood was the heart, Tom Hawkins was the hammer. The big forward, known affectionately as Tomahawk, rewrote Geelong’s goal-kicking record book. His 788 goals for the club are the most by any Cat, surpassing the legendary Doug Wade. But Hawkins isn’t just a accumulator—he’s a big-game performer.
In the 2022 AFL Grand Final, Hawkins kicked three goals and set up two more, earning the Norm Smith Medal as best on ground. His ability to clunk marks under pressure and convert from tight angles made him a nightmare for defenders. What’s remarkable is his longevity. Hawkins debuted in 2007 and was still dominating in his mid-30s, a testament to his fitness and professionalism.
Hawkins also holds the record for most goals in a season by a Geelong player (78 in 2018), and he’s one of only a handful of Cats to kick 100 goals in a season (he did it in the VFL as a youngster). For a forward, consistency is everything, and Hawkins delivered it year after year.
Patrick Dangerfield: The Midfield Dynamo
When Patrick Dangerfield crossed to Geelong in 2016, there were questions about whether he could live up to the hype. Spoiler: he did. Dangerfield, or Paddy Dangerfield as fans call him, brought a level of explosiveness that transformed the Cats’ midfield. His 2016 Brownlow Medal season was a masterclass—35 disposals, 10 clearances, and 1.5 goals per game were just the numbers. The real impact was his ability to break lines and change games in a heartbeat.
Dangerfield’s record at Geelong includes four All-Australian selections and a club record for most Brownlow votes in a season (35 in 2016). But his most impressive feat might be his consistency in big moments. In the 2020 AFL Finals Series, Dangerfield averaged 29 disposals and kicked six goals, almost single-handedly willing the Cats to the Grand Final.
What makes Dangerfield special is his versatility. He can win a clearance, burst through a tackle, and then deliver a pinpoint pass to a forward. He’s a midfielder who plays like a forward, and that unpredictability is what makes him a record breaker.
Team Record Breakers: The Dynasty That Keeps Giving
Most AFL Premierships in the Modern Era
Geelong’s record in the AFL Grand Final is nothing short of astonishing. With 10 premierships overall, the Cats are one of the most successful clubs in the competition. But what’s truly remarkable is their dominance in the modern era. Since 2007, Geelong has won four flags—2007, 2009, 2011, and 2022—a stretch that rivals any dynasty in AFL history.
The 2007 Grand Final was a turning point. After years of heartbreak, the Cats demolished Port Adelaide by 119 points, the largest margin in a Grand Final since 1995. That win set the tone for a decade of excellence. The 2011 premiership was particularly sweet, as the Cats became the first team to win a flag after finishing seventh on the ladder—a testament to their resilience.
But the 2022 premiership might be the most impressive. It came after a period of transition, with key players like Selwood and Hawkins nearing the end. Yet the Cats found a way, blending youth with experience to win their 10th flag. That’s the Geelong way: never count them out.
Consecutive Finals Appearances
One of the most underrated records in the AFL is Geelong’s streak of consecutive finals appearances. From 2007 to 2024, the Cats made the AFL Finals Series every single year—a run of 18 consecutive seasons. That’s the longest active streak in the competition and one of the longest in VFL/AFL history.
This streak is a testament to the club’s culture and recruitment. While other teams yo-yo between success and rebuilding, Geelong has remained a constant presence in September. It’s a record that speaks to the depth of the list, the coaching of Chris Scott, and the ability to develop talent through the Geelong VFL program.
What’s even more impressive is that the Cats have done this without ever bottoming out. They’ve avoided the rebuilds that plague other clubs, instead using the AFL Draft wisely and trading for stars like Dangerfield. This consistency is the foundation of Geelong’s record-breaking legacy.
Kardinia Park: The Fortress
You can’t talk about Geelong’s records without mentioning their home ground. Kardinia Park, also known as GMHBA Stadium, has become a fortress for the Cats. Since 2007, Geelong has won over 80% of their games at the Cattery, a record that’s unmatched in the AFL.
The Kardinia Park Redevelopment has been a game-changer. The stadium upgrade, completed in phases over the past decade, has increased capacity to over 40,000 and added world-class facilities. But more importantly, it’s created an atmosphere that intimidates opponents. The crowd is loud, the ground is tight, and the Cats know every blade of grass.
This home-ground advantage has been crucial in the AFL Finals Series. In 2022, the Cats played three finals at Kardinia Park, winning all three by an average of 40 points. It’s a record that’s hard to beat—literally.
The Records That Keep Shifting
Most Goals in a Season by a Geelong Player
Tom Hawkins holds the record for most goals in a season by a Cat (78 in 2018), but he’s not the only one to threaten it. In 2024, Jeremy Cameron kicked 67 goals, showing that the next generation is ready to step up. The record is always at risk, especially with the Cats’ attacking style under Chris Scott.
Most Brownlow Medals by a Geelong Player
The Cats have had four Brownlow Medal winners: Bernie Smith (1951), Ian Stewart (1971), Jimmy Bartel (2007), and Patrick Dangerfield (2016). That’s a rich history, but Dangerfield’s win in 2016 was special because it ended a nine-year drought. Could we see another Cat join the list soon? Keep an eye on young guns like Max Holmes.
Most AFL Finals Wins
Joel Selwood’s record of 27 finals wins is the gold standard, but it’s not safe. Players like Tom Hawkins (22 finals wins) and Patrick Dangerfield (20) are closing in. With the Cats’ continued success, this record could change hands in the next few seasons.
Practical Tips for Following the Record Breakers
Want to stay up to date with Geelong’s record-breaking journey? Here are some tips:
- Watch the games live: There’s nothing like being at Kardinia Park to witness history. The atmosphere is electric, and you never know when a record might fall.
- Follow the stats: The AFL website and apps have detailed stats for every player. Keep an eye on Hawkins’ goal tally or Selwood’s disposal count.
- Join the conversation: Geelong Cats fan forums and social media groups are buzzing with debates about records. It’s a great way to learn and share your passion.
- Check out the Geelong VFL: The reserves team is a breeding ground for future record breakers. Watch their games to spot the next star.
- Read the history: Books and documentaries about the Cats’ past are full of record-breaking moments. It’s a great way to appreciate the legacy.
The Future of Record Breaking at Geelong
As we look ahead to the 2025 AFL Season, the Cats are poised to add more records to their collection. The next generation is already making waves. Young players like Jhye Clark and Oliver Dempsey are showing flashes of brilliance, while established stars like Cameron and Dangerfield still have plenty left in the tank.
The AFL Draft continues to be a strength for the Cats, who have a knack for finding talent in the later rounds. And the Geelong VFL program ensures that players are ready for the big stage. With Chris Scott at the helm, the culture of excellence isn’t going anywhere.
But records aren’t just about numbers. They’re about moments—the roar of the crowd when Selwood kicked his 100th goal, the silence when Hawkins took a match-winning mark, the eruption when Dangerfield broke through a tackle. Those moments are what make being a Cats fan special.
Conclusion: Be Part of the Legacy
The Geelong Cats are more than a football club; they’re a dynasty of record breakers. From Joel Selwood’s iron will to Tom Hawkins’ goal-scoring genius, from Patrick Dangerfield’s explosive power to the team’s unmatched consistency, this club has rewritten the AFL history books time and again.
But the story isn’t over. The 2025 AFL Season is just around the corner, and the Cats are hungry for more. Whether you’re watching from the stands at Kardinia Park or cheering from home, you’re part of this journey. So, what are you waiting for?
Dive into the key stories that define this club—explore the key stories that have shaped Geelong’s legacy. Want to know what happened in the 2024 season? Check out the key stories 2024 for a recap of the highs and lows. And if you’re curious about the next generation, our draft analysis will give you the inside scoop on the future stars.
The records are there for the taking. Are you ready to be part of the next chapter? Go Cats!
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