Geelong reinforces AFLW list with returning Cats

MORE than two dozen familiar faces are returning to the Cattery for Season 8 of the AFLW, following a busy Sign and Trade Period.

Geelong Football Club announced that inaugural Cats Meghan McDonald, Nina Morrison, Becky Webster, Julia Crockett-Grills, Kate Darby, Georgie Rankin and Renee Garing were among the returning cohort of 27 from 2022 and will pull on the hoops for a sixth season.

Much to the pleasure of Cats fans, all-Australians Amy McDonald, Georgie Prespakis and Chloe Scheer are also among the re-signings.

It is the Cats’ largest retained cohort of players to date.

“We’re absolutely delighted by the show of commitment from our playing group,” Cats head of AFLW and football pathways Brett Johnson said.

“With the competition where it is, player movement across the competition is noticeable, but it is pleasing to see the buy-in from our players to our vision for our AFLW program and the connection among the group.

“Our players have been on an incredible journey of growth the past two seasons, and we’re excited to see how they continue to unlock excellence in Season 8.”

The Cats also welcome Kate Surman via a trade with Port Adelaide that saw Maddy Keryk and Pick 12 head to the Power during the sign and trade period.

Outgoing players include Maddy McMahon, who called time on her playing career in the AFLW, while Georgia Clarke and Kalani Scoullar were informed they would not be offered contracts.

Geelong’s 2023 list

New: Kate Surman

Returning: Mikayla Bowen, Annabel Johnson, Amy McDonald, Darcy Moloney, Jackie Parry, Julia Crockett-Grills, Kate Darby, Nina Morrison, Georgie Rankin, Meghan McDonald, Renee Garing, Liv Fuller, Chloe Scheer, Shelley Scott, Chantel Emonson, Brooke Plummer, Zali Friswell, Becky Webster, Rachel Kearns, Sammy Gooden, Mia Skinner, Claudia Gunjaca, Ingrid Houtsma, Gabbi Featherston, Abbey McDonald, Georgie Prespakis, Melissa Bragg.