New Geelong rookie Stewart Crameri says he considered retirement before Cats swooped

STEWART Crameri has revealed he considered retirement before Geelong swooped on the discarded Dog in the rookie draft and is now determined and ready to get back to his best form.

Stewart Crameri in his new colours. Picture: Getty

STEWART Crameri has admittd he considered retirement before Geelong threw him a last-minute lifeline.

Crameri, 29, was picked up by the Cats in Monday’s rookie draft after it looked like he would be left stranded on 99 games — 57 with the Bombers and 42 with the Bulldogs.

“It was a tense three months there waiting to see where my AFL career would go,” he said.

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“It was a tense three months there waiting to see where my AFL career would go,” he said.

“Luckily the Cats showed a bit of faith and I was lucky enough to get picked up in the rookie draft. I can’t wait to get back out there.

“Initially there was a bit of interest, but as the time went on the clubs weren’t showing that must interest.

“It came down to Geelong and it was Geelong or nothing. I did contemplate having to retire but luckily enough I did get a second chance.”

Stewart Crameri in his new colours. Picture: Getty

Crameri unveiled his new jumper number — 36 — and said he was determined to make the most of his fresh start after enduring the Essendon drugs saga and a run of serious injuries, including a chronic hip complaint that required surgery.

“I’m willing to move down (to Geelong) pretty soon, so it is a fresh start on and off the field,” he said.

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“It’s probably going to be good mentally and I just want to play some good football again - which I know I can - and contribute to the team and try and have some success.”

Power forward Tom Hawkins led the Cats’ goalkicking tally this season — booting 51 majors — and Crameri said he looked forward to doing his bit inside 50.

“Hopefully I can help him out in the forwardline,” he said.

“I haven’t discussed tactics yet, but I’ve known Tom for a few years, so I’m sure we’ll jell pretty well.

“It is exciting (to hopefully play with him) ... and (Patrick) Dangerfield, (Joel) Selwood and newly-recruited Gary Ablett. It’s an exciting team to be a part of and I’m grateful to be here.”