Geelong’s Signing Surge Continues: Premiership Champion Extends Contract for Two More Years

Premiership champion Sam De Koning has pledged his future to Geelong for an additional two years as the Cats aim to reclaim their spot among the league’s grand finalists.

This new contract secures De Koning’s tenure at the club until the conclusion of 2027, having already made 65 appearances since being drafted at pick 19 in 2019.

The versatile ruckman/defender previously extended his contract with Geelong in 2022, which would have kept him at the club until this year.

“I’m thrilled to commit at least for the next two years. Geelong feels like home to me, and I truly appreciate everything the club and the local area provide,” he remarked in an official statement.

“Since being drafted, I’ve had the privilege of playing alongside some incredible talents and savouring team successes. The squad we are currently building has a promising future, and I can’t wait to be part of it.”

De Koning notched his first AFL goal during the 2022 grand final and finished as the runner-up in that year’s Rising Star voting, narrowly missing out to Nick Daicos.

At just 24 years old, De Koning’s contract renewal marks him as the fifth player to reaffirm their commitment to the Cats, following Brad Close, Jeremy Cameron, Ollie Henry, Shannon Neale, and Toby Conway.

Geelong Cats Executive General Manager of Football, Andrew Mackie, expressed his delight over the recent contract extension.

“Sam is not only a fantastic player but also a wonderful person, and we are thrilled he has chosen to stay with us,” he stated.

“We are eager to watch Sam continue to evolve as a player and thrive alongside our core group of young, up-and-coming talent.”

While De Koning has confirmed his future with the Cats, speculation continues to swirl around his brother Tom at Carlton, with reports emerging that St Kilda is poised to offer him a lucrative $1.7 million-a-season contract.