DANGERFIELD, STEWART SEND SHOCKWAVES WITH $6M YOUTH ACADEMY DONATION – OPPOSITION TEAMS POUR IN WISHES
Geelong Cats captain Patrick Dangerfield and vice-captain Tom Stewart have sent shockwaves through the AFL and beyond after pledging a historic $6 million donation to the club’s Youth Academy – the largest single gift in Geelong’s 162-year history – with even opposition teams lining up to send their congratulations to the celebrated leaders.
The landmark announcement, made at the club’s annual youth development gala on Friday night, has been hailed as a game-changer for Geelong’s pathways program, which nurtures the next generation of AFL talent from the Greater Geelong region and beyond. The $6 million pledge will fund state-of-the-art training facilities, scholarship programs for young players from disadvantaged backgrounds, and enhanced coaching resources for the academy.
Dangerfield, who took over the captaincy in 2023 and played a crucial role in the Cats’ 2022 premiership, described the donation as a “way to give back to the club that has given me so much.” “Geelong has shaped who I am as a player and a person,” he said. “We want to ensure every young talent in this region has the chance to reach their potential, just as we did. This academy is the future of our club, and we’re proud to stand behind it.”
Stewart, a premier modern defender with five All-Australian selections and two Carji Greeves Medals (club Best & Fairest), echoed his captain’s sentiments. “As someone who came through local football before joining the Cats, I know how important strong youth pathways are,” the vice-captain said. “This donation is about building a legacy that will benefit Geelong for decades to come – not just on the field, but in the community.”
The pair’s extraordinary generosity has resonated far beyond Kardinia Park, with rival clubs including Richmond, Collingwood, and Brisbane Lions issuing statements of congratulations. Richmond president Peggy O’Neal described the pledge as “an incredible act of leadership that sets a new standard for the AFL,” while Collingwood coach Craig McRae praised the duo for “putting the future of the game first.”
Both players have forged legendary status at Geelong: Dangerfield has claimed three Carji Greeves Medals, multiple All-Australian honours, and the Gary Ayres Award, while Stewart has solidified his reputation as one of the game’s best defenders with his elite intercept marking and unwavering leadership. Their 2022 premiership triumph together remains a highlight of their time at the club.
Geelong CEO Steve Hocking was visibly emotional as he accepted the donation, calling it “a testament to the character of our two leaders.” “Patrick and Tom have already given us so much on the field – now they’re ensuring our club’s future is brighter than ever,” he said.
