Cats’ 2025 season review

WHILE Geelong fell agonisingly short of the AFL Premiership against Brisbane on the weekend, there was plenty to like in 2025 for the Cats.

The season will be remembered by fans as one with thrilling highs and defiance, despite the Grand Final result.

After another busy offseason that saw them land arguably the recruit of the year in Bailey Smith, the Cats entered 2025 as one of the formidable contenders once again.

A 17-5 record and second-place finish sent Geelong finals bound for the 17th time in 19 seasons. All three of their finals hit outs were played out in front of packed-out MCG crowds, led by the 100,022 strong on the last day of September.

The pickup of Smith became a largely contributing factor to the Cats’ impressive campaign, with his pace and antics on and off the field making every week a must-watch. The midfielder enjoyed a career-best season and finished third in the Brownlow Medal, despite missing three games.

Superstar forward Jeremy Cameron kicked 88 goals and won the Coleman Medal in dominant fashion, with his form so spectacular he was one to watch in the latter end of the home and away season.

Tom Atkins also enjoyed a career-best year and broke the all-time AFL record for tackles in a season, with his ferocity and relentlessness key in his side’s hunt for premiership glory.

The youngsters stood up in key moments, with Max Holmes taking his game to another level and tall defender Connor O’Sullivan becoming a reliable piece to the backline. Reigning rising star Ollie Dempsey also broke out in 2025 and produced some exciting highlights.

Then there is the anchor of the team – skipper Patrick Dangerfield. The 35-year-old popped up when Geelong needed most and wound back the clock for multiple vintage performances.

Although they didn’t get there in 2025, it is almost a sure thing that the Cats will bounce back and remain in the hunt next season.