Geelong defender Lachie Henderson has announced his retirement from the game following the 2021 season. 

A versatile player, Henderson played as both a forward and defender, but played his best football down back.

Henderson played 89 games in the navy & white hoops, and was a member of the Cats finals teams in each of his six seasons at GMHBA Stadium. 

After being delisted by Geelong at the end of the 2019 season, Henderson was re-rookied by the club and rejuvenated himself as a footballer, playing a further 35 games.

A member of the club’s Grand Final team in 2020, Henderson played in 13 finals for Geelong.

Henderson has played 206 AFL games and kicked 117 goals while representing Brisbane, Carlton and Geelong over 14 seasons.

Category B rookie Stefan Okunbor has returned to Ireland following three years with the club. 

Okunbor, from Tralee in county Kerry, appeared in 17 VFL contests in his three seasons. Playing mainly as a defender and run with player, Okunbor overcame an achilles injury and limited game time due to the covid shutdown.

“Lachie has made a significant contribution since joining the club in 2016,” Geelong’s general manager of football Simon Lloyd said.

“He was a strong clubman and always focused on improving his teammates. Lachie could always be depended on and helped the club to the finals in each of his seasons with us. 

“Stefan showed great desire and commitment to become a better player. He was limited by injury and the lack of games through the shutdown. He is now back in Ireland and we hope he can enjoy a successful Gaelic football career.

“Everyone at the club wishes Lachie and Stefan well in their future endeavours.”