Cats forward Tom Hawkins is set to break Geelong’s all-time record after signing to play in 2024.
Just days after his contract was made public, the 35-year-old has agreed a deal to stay at the Cattery for next season.
“I am truly honored to enter my 18th season with the Cats, the team I grew up rooting for,” Hawkins said.
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“The choices we make in professional sport are not isolated, they ripple and involve many other people in your life. This is why after each season, after each contract, I always take the time to sit down and reflect with those close to me to discuss our future and not only what is best for me but also for everyone who makes this journey with me.
“I have always been motivated to continue playing with the Cats. Geelong isn’t just where I work, it’s home.
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“I feel privileged to have another chance to give back in 2024.
“My motivation is undoubtedly still there. I will continue as I have always been taught, to try to leave this club in a better place than when I started. I’m really excited about the challenge ahead for the team and myself moving forward into the future.
The new deal comes just days after Hawkins’ former teammate Josh Jenkins revealed the big man was “not feeling the love” and had been “a little peeved” by delays in his contract.
“He and the Cats are still a long way away with his new contract,” Jenkins said Tuesday.
“I thought it would be someone’s office already signed.”
Two-time premier Roo David King then implored Geelong to square Hawkins.
“Don’t lose the soul of your football club like that,” he warned on Fox Footy. Trading day.
“This guy has played 350 football games – he’s been there forever.
“Don’t let him go like that – just deal with it.”
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As contract uncertainty was made public, it was revealed that Melbourne had made a big pitch to lure Hawkins.
Melbourne’s offer for him was a good one and it was on offer,” said SEN’s Sam Edmund.
“I know the money was good – and at least slowed down what would otherwise be a fairly simple process to put on paper.”
But just three days later, Hawkins’ contract was signed at Geelong.
“His leadership, knowledge, professionalism and contribution on the field, where he continues to be one of the best in his trade, will help drive our club forward,” said Cats football boss Andrew Mackie .
“Tom is an integral part of our football program and continues to positively influence our playing group, especially our young forwards and key players, and we look forward to seeing Tom in the hoops for an 18th season.”
Hawkins has played 347 AFL games – just eight games behind the Cats’ all-time record holder Joel Selwood, who had 355 games under his belt before retiring at the end of 2022.
