The VFL’s night of nights has been one to remember for the Cats, headlined by Paul Hood’s nod as women’s coach of the year.

Hood steered his VFLW Cats to fifth spot with eight wins in the side’s inaugural season, just missing out on a maiden finals berth while uncovering some genuine elite talent that bodes well for Geelong’s future in women’s football.

Lily Mithen (left), Paul Hood (centre) and Richelle Cranston (right) were recognised for outstanding VFLW seasons. (Photo: Arj Giese)

The exciting Richelle Cranston was rewarded for a stellar first season with the Cats, named on the wing as part of the VFLW team of the year. Cranston was named in Geelong’s best in six of her eight games and booted two goals.

VFLW Cats’ best and fairest winner Lily Mithen also added another achievement to her already impressive football CV, joining Cranston in the team of the year. The 19-year-old was named on the half forward flank.

Both women are current AFLW players for Melbourne though will be in the sights of the Cats should the club be granted an AFLW licence for 2019 as hoped.

From the men’s program, James Tsitas was named to the team of the year following his own VFL Cats’ best and fairest win.

Tsitas found himself in the Cats’ best players some 10 times from his 15 games with coach Shane O’Bree moving the 22-year-old to the midfield from defence in a switch that paid dividends for both team and player.

James Tsitas was named to the wing in the VFL team of the year for 2017. (Photo: AFL Photos)