Geelong Cats
August 25, 2023

Geelong Cats Contract News: Sam Menegola Not Offered New Deal

After being informed that he would not be awarded a contract for 2024, a seasoned Cat will play in a farewell game against the Western Bulldogs.

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Sam Menegola's final game will be this Saturday against the Western Bulldogs, as Geelong announced they will not be re-signing the experienced winger for the upcoming season.

Due to a string of injuries, Menegola will not return to the AFL until the final round of the 2023 season.

The 31-year-old has not yet confirmed his retirement and is looking for a fourth team to call home after playing for Hawthorn, Fremantle, and Geelong.

My experiences at Geelong have changed our family forever. The things I've accomplished, the difficulties I've overcome, the insights I've gained, and the friendships I've made will all remain with me forever, he added.

Here I was able to realize a long-held ambition; I can't wait to see what the future holds.

Cats coach Simon Lloyd extended his gratitude to Menegola for his time spent with the team.

Sam has been a reliable contributor to the Cats' midfield since he first joined the team, according to the coach. "He can run both ways, find plenty of the ball, and regularly hit the scoreboard," the coach said.

When it comes to getting ready, training, and performing on game day, he has very high expectations. His dedication to the game and professionalism set a great example for any rookie player in the AFL.

Sam's career is a testament to his resiliency, as he has overcome numerous injuries to continue playing at the highest level. The season hasn't gone as planned, but Sam has been a great leader for our younger midfielders, and we'd like to send him out with a win on Saturday to celebrate his time in Geelong.

Both Menegola and Isaac Smith, who announced their retirements last month, will play their final games for Geelong on Saturday night.

However, veterans Tom Hawkins and Zach Tuohy, who were not re-signed by the team, will have to sit on the bench and watch the final game of their careers from the stands.

Chris Scott, the coach, expressed his desire to have both premier players return for another season in 2024.

I have faith in those lads," he remarked.