AFL 2023 Round 08 - Geelong v Adelaide — GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - MAY 06: Sam Simpson of the Cats celebrates after scoring a goal during the round eight AFL match between Geelong Cats and Adelaide Crows at GMHBA Stadium, on May 06, 2023, in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

Stewart Signs On | Four more years in the 44.

WAFL: Perth Demons land former Geelong player Sam Simpson for 2024 | The West Australian

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.

Stewart’s outstanding commitment to the Hoops extends beyond the field, with the defender’s commitment to the community unrivalled. Recognised as the 2023 Geelong Cats AFL Carter Family Community Champion, Stewart was also a 2023 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award nominee.

An exemplary leader, Stewart has been a key figure in many Cats Community programs, which includes working closely with the Good Friday Appeal.

The defender has been a key supporter in the Cats Wishes, supporting a My Room Children’s Cancer Charity auction, donating his 2022 Grand Final match-worn guernsey, and supporting the ‘2 feet and a heartbeat’ walk for Heart Kids, alongside wife Emma.

Geelong Cats General Manager – Football Andrew Mackie said the Club is thrilled to have Stewart commit long term.

“Tom’s resume is a credit to his commitment, his consistency, and his professionalism in his relentless pursuit of excellence since his very first year in the Hoops.

“In recent years he’s demonstrated his capacity to unlock the same drive and standards amongst his teammates and has extended his positive influence beyond the football field and into our community.

“We are excited to have Tom playing in the Hoops until at least the end of 2027.”