In a packed press conference at the Cats’ training facility on Tuesday afternoon, head coach Mick Stinear dropped a bombshell that sent shockwaves through the AFL community. After eight seasons at the helm, Stinear announced that he has accepted a “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” offer to become the new head coach of the Gold Coast Suns, effective from the start of the 2026 season.
The announcement, delivered with a calm demeanor but a hint of emotion, came just weeks after the Cats secured a top‑four finish and a berth in the finals. Stinear, who guided Geelong to a premiership in 2022 and a runner‑up finish last year, said the decision was “one of the hardest I’ve ever had to make.”
“I love this club, the players, the supporters and the city of Geelong,” Stinear said. “But an opportunity to build a new culture on the Sunshine Coast, with a club that’s hungry for success, is something I couldn’t ignore.”
The news has left the Geelong Cats stunned. Captain Tom Hawkins, who has worked closely with Stinear for the past five years, expressed his disappointment but pledged to support the coach’s decision. “Mick has given us everything – leadership, passion and belief,” Hawkins said. “We’ll miss him, but we respect his ambition and wish him all the best.”
Fans have flooded social media with a mix of disbelief and anger. Hashtags such as #StinearStay and #GeelongShocked trended within minutes, with many calling for an emergency board meeting to address the potential fallout. The club’s official statement, released shortly after the press conference, thanked Stinear for his service and confirmed that an internal search for a successor will begin immediately.
The AFL’s chief executive, Andrew Dillon, issued a brief comment acknowledging the unexpected move. “Mick’s contribution to the game, particularly at Geelong, has been immense. We wish him success in his new role and will work with both clubs to ensure a smooth transition.”
Speculation is already ripping through the league about who might replace Stinear at Geelong. Names being floated include former Collingwood assistant coach Nathan Buckley and Sydney Swans senior assistant Alastair Clarkson. The Cats’ board has indicated that a decision will be made before the end of the current season.
As the club grapples with the loss of a beloved figure, the Geelong community is rallying around the team, urging the players to stay focused on the upcoming finals series. “We’re hurting, but we’re also hungry,” said midfielder Patrick Dangerfield. “Mick would want us to keep fighting for the flag.”
The full impact of Stinear’s departure will unfold in the coming weeks, but one thing is clear: the AFL landscape has been dramatically reshaped.
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