Ablett elevated to Cats Legend

Geelong Cats champion Gary Ablett Jr will be elevated to Legend status at the club’s Hall of Fame event next month, cementing his place among the greatest figures in Geelong football history.

Ablett will be honoured alongside premiership coach Mark Thompson and former captain Joel Selwood, who will both be inducted into the Geelong Cats Hall of Fame at a special celebration at GMHBA Stadium on July 4.

One of the most decorated players of the modern era, Ablett played 247 games for Geelong across two stints and was a central figure in the club’s premiership successes in 2007 and 2009.

His remarkable career included two Brownlow Medals, eight All Australian selections, two Carji Greeves Medals and five Leigh Matthews Trophies as the AFL Players Association’s Most Valuable Player.

Ablett will become the 29th Legend recognised in the Geelong Cats Hall of Fame.

Selwood’s induction follows a decorated 355-game career that featured four premierships, three Carji Greeves Medals and six All Australian honours.

The respected midfielder also captained Geelong in a record 245 matches and finished his playing career with a premiership in 2022.

Meanwhile, Thompson will be recognised for his transformative impact as senior coach. Across 11 seasons and 242 games in charge, he guided the Cats to premierships in 2007 and 2009, helping establish one of the most successful eras in club history.

Geelong Cats chief executive Steve Hocking said the trio had each left a lasting mark on the club.

“Recognising Gary, Joel and Mark allows us to acknowledge the significant impact they have had on our Club, our people and our community.”

“Gary had the capacity to change games in pivotal moments, and his elevation to Legend goes beyond the accolades, and reminds us of the way he made people feel when he played.”

“Joel Selwood’s leadership and spirit set a standard that remains embedded in the culture of our Club.”

“Mark’s time as senior coach was nothing short of transformative.”

The Hall of Fame dinner will also celebrate new life members and present the prestigious R.J. Hickey Award.

Tickets are available through the Geelong Cats website.