AFL Grand Final: Joel Selwood thanked by premiership stars as retirement rumours swirl

Geelong’s premiership heroes have paid tribute to their “inspiring” leader Joel Selwood, who has not made a decision on his playing future after the grand final win. TAKE OUR POLL

2022 AFL Grand Final between the Geelong Cats and Sydney Swans at the MCG. Geelong Cats Captain Joel Selwood kisses the Premiership Cup during the victory lap. Picture: David Caird

Geelong’s premiership heroes have paid tribute to their “inspiring” leader Joel Selwood, who has not made a decision on his playing future after the grand final win.

Selwood is expected to declare whether he would retire or play on in 2023 in the coming days, but gun midfielder Cam Guthrie believes he has earnt the right to make the call.

“I believe he’s the best Geelong player of all time, just the way he’s gone about his career,” he said.

“Joel is a really special player and person, I thought it was brilliant the way he capped off his day with a goal and everyone got around him.

“His success on the field but also the person he is off it too, it’s great to see Joel have a day like he did … and we get to lap it up.

Joel Selwood won his first premiership as a Geelong captain, and fourth as a player, on Saturday. Picture: Michael Willson

“I think the way he played yesterday, yes (he plays on), he’s going to have a bit of a chat to the club and see where he’s at, but I was really impressed by his whole season.”

Selwood collected 26 disposals, eight marks and four tackles to go with his fourth-quarter goal that had the captain collapse with emotion, players streaming from around the ground to congratulate their skipper.

Cats post-GF family day at St Mary's Oval, Kardinia Park. Captain Joel Selwood. Picture: Mike Dugdale

Defender Jake Kolodjashnij said he was “in awe” of his fearless leader.

“He’s so inspirational for us at the footy club, he’s the heart and soul of Geelong,” he said.

“All the work he does behind the scenes in the community, helping all the boys on the list, he’s got a genuine care for everyone involved in the club.

“I’m not sure what he’s going to do next year but to see him get rewarded with a flag as a captain is awesome.

Joel Selwood of the Cats and Sam Moorfoot celebrate during the 2022 Toyota AFL Grand Final. Picture: Michael Willson

“I hope he goes around again but it’s his decision, he might want to go out on a high.”

Zach Guthrie said he took inspiration from the way Selwood led the group through his time in Geelong.

“He’s so amazing, I take so much inspiration from the way he holds himself,” he said.

“His devotion to other people, not just himself but to include all the families and the community is incredible.

“He deserves the cup as much as anyone else, I’m super proud of him.”

MELBOURNE, SEPTEMBER 24, 2022: 2022 AFL Grand Final between the Geelong Cats and Sydney Swans at the MCG. Chris Scott and Joel Selwood present to the fans. Picture: Mark Stewart

Jack Henry said Selwood set the standard for the club.

“Joel is inspiring in the way he conducts himself on and off the field,” he said.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 25: Joel Selwood before going on stage during their celebrations after winning the 2022 AFL Grand Final, at St Mary's Football Club Oval on September 25, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Sam Tabone/Getty Images)

“He sets a standard for everyone and he never drops those standards either.

“He’s such a great person too, he only wishes the best for us, the last thing on his mind would be trying to be a premiership captain.

“I think he’s probably more stoked to have a new group come through and teach us how to play Geelong footy and potentially leave the club in a really strong position if he does decide to finish up.”

Originally published as AFL Grand Final: Joel Selwood thanked by premiership stars as retirement rumours swirl