The Decision
After a distinguished career spanning multiple seasons, Meg McDonald has officially announced her retirement from the Geelong Football Club’s AFLW side. As the club’s longest‑serving AFLW captain, she departs having played 72 games for Geelong.
In her own words:
“I’ll always be thankful for and proud of the opportunity to play for and captain Geelong … I retire fulfilled and full of gratitude for everyone who has supported and enriched my career.”
McDonald shared that the decision stemmed from a growing awareness of the competition’s evolving demands and her own playing trajectory this season.
Career Snapshot
-
McDonald started at the Western Bulldogs in 2017, featuring in 4 games as a forward.
-
She joined Geelong ahead of their inaugural AFLW season in 2019.
-
Transitioning to defence, her reading of the play, intercept work and elite one‑on‑one contests became hallmarks of her style.
-
She assumed the captaincy in 2020 and led the Cats through transformative years including finals campaigns in 2022 and 2023.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 20: Meg McDonald of the Cats speaks to media during 2024 AFLW Captain’s Day at Marvel Stadium on August 20, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)
Significance & Legacy
McDonald’s retirement marks the end of an era for Geelong’s AFLW team. More than just her games played and minutes logged, her legacy includes:
-
Leadership & culture‑building: She helped shape the club’s identity in its formative AFLW years, bringing professionalism and setting standards on and off the field.
-
Pathway and timing: Starting before the explosion of AFLW attention, she witnessed and contributed to the league’s growth from inside.
-
Role model: For younger players stepping into the Cats’ program, McDonald offered a blueprint of longevity, adaptability and leadership.
Her departure also opens the door for the next wave of leadership at Geelong — a transition she herself acknowledges.
What’s Next
While McDonald moves on from playing, the parting message is clear: she remains invested in the club’s future. She said she’ll now be “its biggest supporter.”
For the Cats, this moment represents both a milestone and a pivot: bidding farewell to a foundational captain and preparing for the next chapter of AFLW competition.
Final Thought
Meg McDonald’s career may be over as a player, but her impact will linger — in the culture at Geelong, in the memories of teammates and fans, and in the pathway she leaves behind. Her story reminds us that for many athletes, legacy isn’t just about the trophies or stats, but about leadership, evolution and leaving things better than you found them.
