Geelong

From Cats to Commiseration: Geelong's Heartbreak in the AFL Finals!

Geelong's hopes for glory slip away as they bid farewell to legends Tom Hawkins and Zach Tuohy. Discover the drama, injuries, and missed moments that shaped their season!

This week, Geelong's residents came together for a meeting, marking the official formation of the Geelong Ratepayers and Residents Association (GRRA). Fast forward to seven years later, and the community spirit is still as strong as ever, even if the Geelong Cats’ spirits weren’t quite as high after their recent heart-wrenching loss in the preliminary finals. Coach Chris Scott was left tossing and turning in bed, pondering the myriad of ‘what ifs’ that haunt every devoted fan during the offseason.

The buzzkill of Saturday night’s game was amplified by injuries—none more devastating than the noticeable limp of gun player Max Holmes. His hamstring woes echoed the heartbreak he faced two years earlier, making the scenario all the more gut-wrenching for Cats supporters. Observers noted how the absence of Holmes during the decisive third quarter allowed the Brisbane Lions to snatch back control, leading to a cascading effect of self-doubt and costly errors by Geelong.

Adding to the bittersweet atmosphere was the quiet departure of club legend Tom Hawkins from the stands, symbolizing the end of an era as he stepped away from AFL play. As Geelong faced their defeat, it became clear that this was more than just a game; it was a chapter closing for Hawkins and fellow player Zach Tuohy, whose careers ended without a fairy-tale finish. While most fans were left lamenting the missed opportunities throughout the match, Chris Scott highlighted how basic errors had spiraled the team into a pit of despair over summer.

In the aftermath, Geelong will be left to unpack the 11 fateful moments that crawled their way into the spotlight, denying them a shot at the coveted premiership. On a lighter note, it’s important to remember that the GRRA’s spirit represents the community’s resilience—proof that while our Cats may face setbacks, Geelong as a city bounces back stronger every time! And as per AFL trivia, did you know that Tom Hawkins has had one of the longest careers in the league's history? He debuted in 2007 and transformed into a vital player for the Cats, while Zach Tuohy has been a standout defender since joining Geelong in 2016, showcasing the impact of loyalty and grit in the world of AFL!