Geelong forward Tom Hawkins says the club is in a “wonderful position” to mount another premiership tilt in 2022.
The Cats have been perennial finalists under coach Chris Scott, but their flag window could be closing with several big-name players entering or in the twilight of their careers.
Hawkins dismissed suggestions that Geelong’s list is too old to challenge next season.
The 33-year-old is confident the Cats can be competitive beyond 2022 with their blend of youth and experience.
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“I have heard we are an ageing list. I don’t feel like that. I don’t look around our side and think we’re a certain age demographic,” Hawkins told reporters.
“We may or may not be the oldest club. I look at our group and think we’ve got wonderful experience with an injection of youth this year, new people, new faces.
“I think we’re in a wonderful position and personally I’m just always grateful as a player to play in a side that each year gets the opportunity to compete and win at the highest level.
“Not because I’m biased, but I envision Geelong will be competitive for season 2022 and then moving forward into the future.”
Geelong finished third on the ladder at the conclusion of the home and away season in 2021. Their campaign ended after an 83-point preliminary final loss to eventual premiers Melbourne.
Hawkins also backed Joel Selwood to continue as skipper and is excited to play alongside new recruit Tyson Stengle.
Selwood is poised to break the VFL/AFL record for the most games as captain held by Carlton great Stephen Kernahan.
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