The Geelong Football Club, affectionately known as the Cats, has transformed from a source of disappointment to one of triumph and stability for its loyal fans. This shift has been particularly evident for generations of supporters, including Dean Sherr, who reflects on his grandfather’s experience with the club compared to his own.
Dean’s grandfather, a stoic man who settled in Ballarat, Victoria, after migrating from Ukraine, developed a passion for the Geelong Cats. Despite enduring a modest upbringing and various personal hardships, including the loss of his mother and serving in Kokoda, he found solace in football. Although too frail to attend games, his lounge room became a sanctuary where he watched the Cats play, often alongside Dean.
Legacy of Disappointment and Joy
During his grandfather’s lifetime, the Cats endured a challenging 44-year premiership drought, marked by five grand final losses. In mid-2007, after a resounding victory over Richmond, he expressed skepticism about the team’s chances in the upcoming match, stating, “They’ll have to play a lot better than that to win this weekend.” Yet, contrary to his doubts, Geelong not only won that match but went on to break the drought, securing their first premiership in 2007.
Dean’s grandfather passed away just before the 2009 finals series, having witnessed both the joy of Geelong’s success and the sorrow of a shocking defeat to Hawthorn in 2008. Just weeks after his passing, Geelong triumphed once again, thanks to a pivotal play by Matthew Scarlett and a decisive goal from Paul Chapman, bringing redemption to the family.
As the years progressed, Dean reflects on the constant presence of the Geelong Cats within a rapidly changing world. While Australia has seen significant political shifts, wars, and a global pandemic, the Cats have maintained a competitive edge in the Australian Football League (AFL). They are now entering their 15th preliminary final in 21 years, aiming for a seventh grand final and a fifth premiership.
Consistent Excellence in a Changing Landscape
Geelong’s resilience in the AFL is noteworthy. The club has missed the finals only twice since 2007 and has reached the final four in approximately 70% of those seasons. This consistency stands in stark contrast to the league’s equalisation efforts, which aim to level the playing field among teams.
Under the leadership of Coach Chris Scott, who took over in 2011, Geelong has embraced a philosophy of continuous improvement without resorting to rebuilding phases. Scott’s early success included winning a flag in his first season, but he later faced challenges that led fans to question his approach. However, the 2022 premiership reaffirmed his strategy, solidifying his status as one of the all-time great coaches in the sport.
For Dean and other Cats supporters, following the team during this era has become a source of pride and excitement. The sense of disbelief that once accompanied losses has shifted to a belief in the team’s potential for future success. The unwavering faith in Scott has fostered a culture of resilience and optimism, even in the face of setbacks.
In a world rife with uncertainty, sport offers a crucial escape. What once brought his grandfather disappointment has become a source of reliable joy for Dean. As he contemplates the past two decades, he imagines how his grandfather would react to Geelong’s remarkable journey. Despite the ups and downs, he likely would have maintained his characteristic skepticism, perhaps saying, “They’ll need to play better this week to win.”
As the Geelong Cats prepare for their next challenge, one thing remains clear: the club’s legacy is now defined by triumph and resilience, providing a beacon of hope and joy for its supporters, past and present.
