Gary Ablett traded back to Geelong from Gold Coast

GARY Ablett has returned to where it all began with the Gold Coast midfielder being traded back to Geelong, joining fellow superstars Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood.

GARY Ablett has returned to where it all began with the Gold Coast midfielder being traded back to Geelong.

Ablett, who spent nine seasons in the blue and white hoops before joining the Suns as a free agent on a lucrative deal, on Thursday rejoined the club where his father had previously forged a famous career — and immortalised the Ablett name.

As part of the deal, Geelong received Ablett, pick 24 in this year’s national draft and Gold Coast’s fourth-round pick in 2018.

The Suns received the Cats’ pick 19 (compensation for Steven Motlop) and also handed over their second-round pick in next year’s strong national draft.

Ablett first signalled his desire to return to Geelong almost 12 months ago.

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Ablett, who has played 302 AFL games over a 16-season career, will join fellow superstars Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood at the Cattery, forming arguably the most formidable midfield group in the competition.

The Cats and Gold Coast worked furiously to ensure the veteran returned to his former club.

Can't wait to play against Geelongs midfield 😩🤒 #saidnooneever

— David Armitage (@armo_20) October 19, 2017

@GaryAblettJnr I better hide my number 5 #gazzaisback

— Nakia Cockatoo (@NakiaCockatoo5) October 19, 2017

Ablett is currently mourning the death of his sister, Natasha.

Last year he cited family issues as the main factor in his decision to seek a return home.

The Cats were understandably thrilled to bring Ablett home.

“It was good that Gary ended up joining Geelong. The Gold Coast have done what they said they would do and tried to help Gary get back to Geelong,” Cats list manager Stephen Wells said.

“We’ve given up a bit ... but it is a great story.”

Welcome home @GaryAblettJnr pic.twitter.com/679fVgEhpb

— Joel Selwood (@joelselwood14) October 19, 2017

The Suns thanked Ablett, who was Gold Coast’s inaugural skipper and first Brownlow medallist.

“On behalf of everyone at the Gold Coast Suns we thank Gary for his contribution to our football club,” CEO Mark Evans said.

“He played a significant role growing the game of AFL throughout Queensland and as our inaugural captain and first ever Brownlow Medallist he will be forever celebrated at our club.

“We respect and understand the circumstances of Gary’s decision and wish Gary and Jordan all the very best in the coming years and look forward to welcoming them both back to our club in the years to come.”

Originally published as Gary Ablett traded back to Geelong from Gold Coast