Geelong has thanked Dawson Simpson for his service to the club after the ruckman accepted an offer to join the GWS Giants as an unrestricted free agent.

Simpson was selected by the Cats in the 2007 national draft and spent eight seasons at Simonds Stadium. Over that period Simpson played 28 AFL games and kicked four goals.

He debuted in round 3, 2010 against Fremantle at Subiaco Oval and was a member of the Cats' 2012 VFL premiership.

“Dawson was respected, liked and admired by his team mates during his time with the club,” Geelong general manager of football Steve Hocking said.

“He battled back from injury and was always a positive influence at the club.

"Dawson worked hard on the training track and was a presence whenever he was given the opportunity to play at senior level.

“We wish Dawson well at GWS and hope that he will be able to have a long career with the Giants.”