McDonald to retire after stellar AFLW career

Geelong Cats AFLW captain Meghan McDonald has announced she will retire at the end of the 2025 NAB AFLW Season, drawing the curtain on a pioneering and decorated playing career.

An inaugural AFLW player, McDonald began her career as a forward with the Western Bulldogs in 2017 before joining the Cats ahead of their 2019 debut. Transitioning into defence, she quickly became a standout, winning Geelong’s Best & Fairest and earning All-Australian honours in her first season.

McDonald was named captain in 2020, becoming the Cats’ longest-serving AFLW skipper. She has led the team through a transformative period, including back-to-back finals campaigns in 2022 and 2023.

Known for her leadership, intercept marking and one-on-one defensive strength, McDonald is in line to play her 76th AFLW game this Saturday against Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium – her 72nd in the Hoops.

Fans will be able to farewell the 34-year-old after the final siren with a guard of honour.

“This game, the Clubs and communities where I’ve played it, and the people I’ve played it with, have changed the course of my life,” McDonald said.

“I’ll always be thankful for and proud of the opportunity to play for and captain the Geelong Football Club.”

Senior coach Dan Lowther praised her impact.

“Meg has been a fantastic leader on and off the field and has played an integral role in building our AFLW program,” he said.

CEO Steve Hocking said McDonald had “steered our AFLW program magnificently” and had been a wise voice across the club.

Geelong plays Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium this Saturday night, with the first bounce at 7.15pm.