The Country Game was founded back in 2016 as a chance to recognise farmers for their tireless work and contributions to the Australian way of life.  

Geelong’s theme this year is focusing on regional and local football clubs and the impact they and volunteers have on the community.  
 
The Cats will wear a commemorative guernsey this week, recognising and paying homage to the 37 local football clubs that Geelong’s players have come from.   
 
Dangerfield highlighted the impact of the Country Game, as the Cats look forward to another instalment on Saturday night.  

"Quite clearly, Australia has been founded on the core values of farmers and those in regional communities who have provided for those living in cities,” Dangerfield said.  

“I think it is a wonderful game, to recognise how so many Australians live and that is rurally and we understand that a little being in Geelong, obviously not totally rural.  

“It is always a game that provokes plenty of passion and you learn a bit more about how some Australians live."  

 
The Cats captain made his return from a hamstring injury last Friday, collecting 17 disposals and four clearances in the loss against Carlton.  

Despite the result, Dangerfield said that there are positives his side can build on heading into an important game this weekend.    

"For the most part we were well beaten, but the game was four goals at three-quarter time,” Dangerfield said.  

“You can go two ways; you can be thereabouts and protect the scoreline, or you can have a swing.  

“We will always have a swing, and I think that was reflected a bit in the final margin.  

“There are certainly things we can improve on, there are some things that we did well and there are some little tweaks to make that can improve our game." 

The Cats return to the MCG this Saturday night for the annual Country Game, taking on Essendon with the opening bounce at 7.30pm.  

Tickets are still available at ticketek.com.au or you can purchase a membership at membership.geelongcats.com.au