Inside Geelong’s celebrations after their 2022 AFL Grand Final triumph

After a marathon six-month slog, Geelong could finally let their hair down after clinching a famous grand final victory at the MCG, with celebrations beginning in the sheds on Saturday.

The Cats made a blistering start to the showpiece event and did not look back, dominating the Sydney Swans to secure an 81-point victory and cap off a remarkable season in which they also won the minor premiership.

Their victory also silenced countless pundits and fans who cast their premiership hopes aside before a ball was bounced in March, with Chris Scott’s side viewed as too old to challenge the all-conquering former premiers Melbourne.

And Geelong seized the opportunity to bask in their victory after the final siren, as the players were flanked by family and friends on the field before making their way to the sheds to continue their celebrations. 

The squad were linked, arm in arm, in the middle of the room alongside coach Scott and belted out the club’s famous song as the premiership cup was passed around for photo opportunities.

Captain Joel Selwood posed alongside Jeremy Cameron and Jed Bews. Young defender Sam De Koning – who has enjoyed a breakout season with the Cats – jokingly poked his tongue out as he was joined by loved ones for a snap with the trophy. 

Goalkicking machine Jeremy Cameron had a relatively quiet afternoon at the MCG but was fully deserving of Saturday’s triumph, and was pictured holding the trophy with Brad Close and Selwood.

There was also further celebrations for the Cats, who toasted Zach Tuohy as the Irishman marked his 250th AFL game with a memorable victory. He was held aloft as the team left the patch and he paid tribute to his old Gaelic Football club by waving a flag as he picked up his medal.

Yet while Geelong were celebrating, the Swans were consoling themselves after a humiliating performance. 

Will Hayward was spotted being given a hug by a family member while Tom Hickey gave his young daughter a tight squeeze on a day John Longmire’s side will be eager to quickly banish from their memories.