Tom Stewart is set to be Cat for life after committing to the Geelong Football Club until the end of 2027, signing a three-year contract extension.
Drafted to the Cats as a mature-aged selection, the Premiership defender has stamped himself as one of Geelong’s finest modern-day players.
A two-time Carji Greeves Medal winner (2021, 2023), Stewart has been awarded five All-Australian blazers in just seven AFL seasons (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023) and has been the Club’s vice-captain since 2022.
“I am humbled and grateful to the Geelong Football Club for the opportunity to pull on the Hoops week in, week out,” Stewart said.
“Ever since I walked into the Club, everyone has been so supportive of me, and I can’t thank the playing group, coaching staff and wider organisation enough for all the time and effort they have not just put into my journey, but to everyone lucky enough to pull on the Hoops.
“The future at the Cats is so bright and to be able to be on that journey with so many exciting young players and experienced heads is something I am really looking forward to and we all can’t wait to crack into 2024 and continue to give our all for this footy club.”
One of the League’s premier defenders, the evolution of Tom Stewart has been remarkable.
Drafted from Geelong VFL / South Barwon Football Club in the 2016 National Draft with pick 40, Stewart has made an instant impact since walking through the doors at GMHBA Stadium.
Debuting in the opening round of the 2017 season, Stewart quickly established himself as one of the best intercept marking and rebounding defenders in the competition.
Consistent, courageous and durable, Stewart has played at least 18 games every season since being drafted and across his career ranks elite for his position in meters gained, marks and disposals.
Beyond the field, Stewart has demonstrated an exceptional dedication to the Hoops, and his commitment to the community is unparalleled. In addition to being named the Carter Family Community Champion for the Geelong Cats AFL in 2023, Stewart was nominated for the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award in 2023.
Stewart is a model leader who has played a significant role in numerous Cats Community initiatives, including tight collaboration with the Good Friday Appeal.
The defender has been a major contributor to the Cats Wishes initiative. He and his wife Emma have supported the “2 feet and a heartbeat” walk for Heart Kids, donated his 2022 Grand Final match-worn guernsey, and supported a My Room Children’s Cancer Charity auction.
The Geelong Cats are excited to have Stewart commit for the long run, according to General Manager of Football Andrew Mackie.
Tom’s record speaks volumes about his dedication, dependability, and professionalism in his unwavering quest of greatness from his debut season with the Hoops.
“In the past several years, he has shown that he can inspire his colleagues to have the same ambition and standards, and he has spread his good effect throughout our community as well as the football field.
“We are thrilled that Tom will be a member of the Hoops through at least the end of 2027.”
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