PATRICK Dangerfield’s football resume has now ticked every box after being unveiled as Geelong’s new captain on Saturday night.
The veteran midfielder has beaten out All-Australian defender Tom Stewart to be the replacement for Joel Selwood.
Selwood retired following last year’s grand final victory over Sydney with the record for the most games captained in VFL/AFL history after leading the Cats for eleven seasons.
Dangerfield has served as vice-captain of Geelong since arriving from Adelaide ahead of the 2016 season.
“I love walking into this football club every day,” Dangerfield, who is contracted until the end of next year, said in a statement. “We have fun and we work hard.
“Playing for the Cats has been everything I dreamed it would be since I was a little kid.
“To continue to represent Geelong, and the players, the Club, and the community who make it great – many of whom I’ve aspired to be like my whole life – is an honour.”
“I’m incredibly lucky to be part of a group of players who push each other to great heights and support each other in all things.”
Stewart will remain as vice-captain – a role he shared with Dangerfield in 2022.
“Being in this role over the last five years is something that I’ve really treasured, and to continually grow and develop in this capacity is something that I’m really proud of,” Stewart said.
“We’ve got that right balance of knowing exactly what we want and how to get it, but also having that thirst and that drive to continue to grow and develop.
“We know what we want to achieve. It’s going to take a hell of a lot of work, but we’re really excited for what’s ahead.”
For coach Chris Scott, Dangerfield is only the third captain during his now 13-season tenure, following on from premiership skippers Selwood and Cameron Ling.
“When Pat arrived, he influenced our club for the better, on the field but most significantly off it,” Scott said.
“He has and will always strive to positively influence our people and our culture, which is ever-evolving.
“He’s found a way to embody who we want to be as a football department.”
“As hard as Tom is on field, is as hard as he works off it. To make himself, his team, and his club better.
“He’s incredibly well respected by everyone who knows him, plays with him, and plays on him.
“And that respect is well-earned.”
Twitter: @krockfootball
