By Luke Voogt
Geelong Cats have officially announced the re-signing of Coleman Medallist Tom Hawkins for another two years.
The announcement today follows various reports since early October that the deal had already been effectively done.
Hawkins debuted for the Cats in 2007 and has booted 603 goals – third most in the club’s history – in his 277 games.
He led the AFL in both goals and goal assists in 2020, en route to his first Coleman Medal and third All-Australian selection.
“Tom’s form line is ascending, and we believe he will continue to improve as a player,” Cats football general manager Simon Lloyd said.
“Tom is a team-first player, who looks to bring his teammates into the game and create opportunities for others as well as himself.
“He is a leader both on and off the field and cares deeply about his teammates and all at the club.
“Tom’s play over recent seasons has been elite and we are excited that Tom, with his family’s long history at the club, has again agreed to a new deal.”
Hawkins helped the Cats win premierships in 2009 and 2011 and won the Carji Greeves medal as Geelong’s best and fairest in 2012.
Hawkin’s father, Jack, played 182 games with Geelong and his grandfather Fred Le Deux played 18 matches, while uncles Michael and Robb also played for the Cats.
Yesterday the Cats announced defender Jack Henry had agreed to a one-year contract extension.
Henry has missed only two matches since debuting in round two, 2018.
Originally selected in the rookie draft, Henry fills a key defensive role, and has also shown flexibility to go forward.
He has played 66 games and kicked nine goals.
His only goal of 2020 came at a key point of the third quarter in the Cats’ preliminary final win over Brisbane.
Henry placed eighth in the 2020 Carji Greeves voting and was named the club’s best young player in 2018.
“Jack plays a key role for us and is a highly valued member of our team and our club,” Lloyd said.
“He is a courageous and skilled player, and his teammates love playing with Jack.”
Meanwhile, four-time St Kilda best and fairest winner Jack Steven has announced his retirement after just one season with Geelong.
Steven played 192 games and kicked 113 goals, and was twice named in the All-Australian squad.
“We are happy for Jack that he has made this decision and wish him well in his future,” Lloyd said.
“Jack had an outstanding career and we enjoyed having him play with us this year.
“We look forward to seeing him enjoy the post-football part of his life.”
Originally from Lorne, Steven was selected with pick 42 in the 2007 draft.
He debuted in 2009 and established himself as an elite midfielder.
After being open about his mental health battles, Steven moved to Geelong – in exchange for pick 58 – to be closer to family.
He was stabbed in May just before the AFL season restarted after halting due to COVID-19.
Police did not pursue the matter and Geelong Cats declined to elaborate on the incident in support of Steven.
