Geelong says goodbye to Ivisic, Retschko

GEELONG has farewelled rookies Xavier Ivisic and Patrick Retschko after announcing the duo would not be offered AFL contracts for next season.

Ivisic and Retschko were both taken by the Cats in the 2024 Rookie Draft and were regular names at VFL level in 2025.

Ivisic played 13 VFL games, averaging 15 disposals and kicking five goals for the season. The midfielder forward is a Geelong local, having played for the Falcons and being recruited from Bell Park.

Retschko averaged 21 disposals in his 18 VFL matches, also managing 13 goals. The utility was drafted from St Kilda City and also played for the Oakleigh Chargers.

The list changes follow the retirement of Cats legend Mitch Duncan, who finishes his career after 16 seasons, 305 games and two premierships.

Duncan has now agreed to an assistant coaching role in his home state of Western Australia with the West Coast Eagles.

The free agency window opened last week, and former Hawk and Geelong local James Worpel has signed with the Cats.

The tough midfielder comes across after 148 games with Hawthorn, including his club Best and Fairest award in 2019. Worpel is also a former Geelong Falcons premiership captain and played junior footy at Bell Park.

The AFL trade period ends on Wednesday, October 15.