Martin to don 19 in first season at Cats

THE legacy of the number 19 will be carried forward at the Geelong Cats by new recruit Jack Martin.

Martin was presented with his new guernsey by Cats great and former number 19 Neville Bruns last week at pre-season training.

Bruns played 223 games for Geelong between 1978 and 1992, featuring in two Grand Finals and being an integral part of its midfield and wing rotation.

The Cats great said he hoped Martin would have a long and prosperous career in the number.

“That is what you want, we have had some good players wear it but unfortunately they just haven’t gone on to really cement their spots.

“I am hoping Jack can do that and I am sure that he can, I know how good he can play.

“You don’t play 100 games with one club and 50 with another, without having the ability to play good football.

“He just has to get his body right and I have no doubt, he is probably in as good an environment anywhere in the game here at Geelong, where they will get you right and ready to play.”

Martin said he was privileged to receive his number for 2025 from Bruns.

“I am very excited, very humbled to be wearing the number 19.

“I think for me it is not so much proving people wrong, I think I just want to prove to myself that I can play AFL football.

“I just want to get out there and showcase my skill, and then play for my family so I am looking forward to next year.”