CATS TO PLAY HAWKS AT OPTUS OVAL; KING RETAINS STATUS QUO
B Jensen 2 March 2005

GEELONG play Hawthorn at Optus Oval this Friday evening from 4PM. Members get free entry, although that may be a problem for most, as many are still awaiting delivery of membership cards. Geelong's membership has soared to over 21,000, well above the previous record for this time of the season. As notified previously, the club is struggling to get through the backlog of seat applications in the new Eastern Stand. Thankfully, your correspondent will be in the stand, albeit in the open on the lower deck.

Coming into the expanded squad of 28 side, up from 24 last week, are six players, forward David Haynes, on ballers Kane Tenace, and Peter Riccardi, utility Cameron Thurley, ruckman Paul Chambers and backman Darren Milburn. Gary Ablett and Brent Prismall miss out.

MEANWHILE, Steven 'BIG' King has been confirmed as the Captain of the Geelong Football Club for season 2005, his third year in the role. Although not taking part in the pre-season, King should resume in round one against Richmond. King had surgery to a shoulder post season 2004, and may not get to play a practice match before round one.

Brenton Sanderson will remain as Vice Captain, as will Cameron Long retain his Deputy Vice Captaincy. Sanderson is expected to retire after this season, while Ling is seen as a future leader of the club.

Geelong's first game for season 2005 is against Richmond at the ever-changing MCG, on Sunday 27 March.