THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Geelong Cats Australian Football League (AFL) Community Are Overjoyed as Head Coach Chris Scott Makes Announcement of Making Key Defender Sam De Koning the……view more

After weeks of speculation, strategic whispers, and online fan theories ranging from trade miracles to secret positional switches, Scott finally delivered the announcement every Cats supporter had been begging to hear.
“I’m thrilled to confirm that Sam De Koning will be the new cornerstone of our long-term leadership vision,” Scott declared, drawing immediate cheers from the crowd and an avalanche of celebratory posts across social media.
Though Scott paused for dramatic effect, the message that followed sent fans into full-blown celebration:
“Sam will officially take on an elevated leadership role within the senior group—one that reflects his influence on and off the field, and his future as a key pillar of this football club.”
The room erupted. Supporters practically lifted the roof off the conference centre as the 23-year-old defender—already a cult figure in Geelong—smiled modestly while teammates patted him on the back.
A Future Captain in the Making?
While the club did not explicitly use the word captain, fans and commentators alike wasted no time connecting the dots.
Local fan page CatChat247 posted within seconds:
“HE’S THE FUTURE AND EVERYONE KNOWS IT. Lock him in for 10 years.”
De Koning’s meteoric rise, from promising youngster to premiership hero to defensive powerhouse, has made him the face of Geelong’s next generation. His new leadership role is seen as the clearest sign yet that the Cats are building their next era around him.
Players React:
Star midfielder Patrick Dangerfield reportedly winked at reporters and said:
“About time he gets the recognition. Sammy’s the bloke we’d follow into anything.”
Veteran defender Tom Stewart added:
“He’s got that calm presence. Makes everyone 20% better just by being there.”
The Community’s Response
From cafés along Moorabool Street to online forums and supporter groups, the announcement has ignited a wave of optimism.
Season ticket holder Margaret Hughes summed up the mood:
“This is the best news we’ve had all year. The club is in good hands.”
What Comes Next?
While Scott promised “more exciting developments in the weeks ahead,” he stopped short of revealing specifics. Fans are already speculating about whether this signals a broader succession plan within the leadership group—and what this means for the Cats’ climb back toward premiership contention.
