How a cartoonist's suggestion for good luck created a footballing dynasty

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1923, the Geelong Football Club was struggling. A local cartoonist suggested a black cat mascot might bring luck. The result? A streak of wins that cemented the 'Cats' nickname and birtramed one of the oldest and most successful clubs in Australian rules football history.

Founded on 13 April 1859, the Geelong Football Club is the second-oldest side in the AFL and among the oldest football clubs globally. While the club's traditional navy blue and white hooped guernsey—designed to represent the blue water and white seagulls of Corio Bay—has been worn since its inception, the club's identity underwent a significant shift in the early 20th century. Originally known as the 'Pivotonians' or 'Seagulls,' the club adopted the 'Cats' moniker following a period of poor performance. After cartoonist Samuel Garnet Wells suggested a black cat mascot for luck, the club immediately won four consecutive games, turning a creative suggestion into permanent folklore.

The club's history is marked by periods of immense dominance and legendary droughts. Between 1878 and 1886, Geelong secured seven VFA premierships, and by 1963, they had amassed six VFL premierships. However, this success was followed by a grueling 44-year wait for another title, a drought finally broken in 2007 with a record-breaking 119-point victory in the Grand Final. This era ushered in a modern golden age, with further premierships in 2009, 2011, and 2022.

Beyond the field, the club maintains deep institutional roots. Their sponsorship with the Ford Motor Company, which began in 1925, stands as one of the longest-running active sports sponsorships in the world. While the club has faced fierce rivalries, most notably with Hawthorn and Collingwood, they have also navigated internal shifts, such as experimenting with alternative anthems in the 1980s and 1990s before returning to their traditional song, 'We Are Geelong,' set to the tune of 'Toreador' from Carmen.

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