Geelong has signed three players to contract extensions, with Lachie Henderson, Sam Simpson and Brad Close all agreeing to new deals.

All three players filled important roles for the Cats in 2020. Henderson played 14 games as a key defender, and was an ever present throughout the finals series. Henderson has now played 185 games with Brisbane, Carlton and Geelong.

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Simpson established himself in the line up before suffering a hamstring injury. He returned during the finals to reclaim his place in the line up. Simpson played nine games in 2020 and has now played 15 times since his debut in 2017.

Close made his AFL debut in round 8 against Fremantle and went on to play eight times. He booted a goal with his first kick. Close was emergency throughout the finals campaign.

“Lachie, Sam and Brad all played significant roles for us this year, and we believe they will continue to be important players into the future,” Geelong’s general manager of football Simon Lloyd said.

“Lachie filled a key role in our defence for most of the season and had an impact in quelling key opposition forwards. He is a team-first player who has always placed the needs of the group ahead of his own.

“Sam did very well when he earned his opportunity with his strong work ethic and impact around the ball being a highlight. He was also very diligent in his rehab and that allowed him to come back into the team during the finals and have a significant influence.

“Brad also played well as a forward and we see him having a good future at AFL level. He will continue to develop his game through his strong drive and professionalism and we look forward to seeing Brad further enhance his game in 2021.”