The 34-year-old, who will hang up the boots at the conclusion of Geelong’s 2024 campaign, has enjoyed a remarkable career across two clubs after being recruited out of Portlaoise in County Laois Ireland in 2010.
Tuohy attracted the attention of AFL recruiters in 2009 before being offered an International Rookie contract and selected by Carlton with the 73rd pick in the 2010 rookie draft. After playing 120 games with the Blues, Tuohy became a Cat via a trade at the end of 2016 and made his Club debut in Round 1 2017 against Fremantle.
Across eight seasons with the Cats to date, Tuohy has played 166 games, including being a member of the 2022 Premiership team, a match in which he also celebrated his 250th game.
A modern-day trailblazer for aspiring Irish athletes looking to switch codes to Australian rules football, Tuohy is only the second Irish-born player to play 200 AFL games along with Jim Stynes. He also in Round 17, 2023, played his 265th game against North Melbourne, overtaking Jim Stynes for the most AFL games played by an Irish-born footballer.
Alongside fellow Irishman Mark O’Connor, they become just the second and third Irish players to win an AFL premiership, following Tadhg Kennelly in 2005.
With his trademark torpedo, iconic moustache and fan favourite Reggie wave post-win to the Reg Hickey Stand at GMHBA Stadium, Tuohy is much loved amongst the Geelong faithful.
Tuohy said he was appreciative for the support he has received across his career.
“While there is a lot of footy left to play this year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you all the members and fans for their support. I knew when I came to the Cats I was in for a treat, and I didn’t think I fully appreciated just how incredible the journey would be,” Tuohy said.
Geelong Cats General Manager of Football Andrew Mackie celebrated Tuohy’s accomplishments and career.
“Zach has been a skilful, durable and flexible player across his eight seasons in the hoops. He will depart as the Irish games record holder, which is a remarkable achievement for someone who made the decision 15 years ago to leave home to travel across the world to play our game.
“He is a loved and respected teammate and has contributed greatly to the environment of our Club.
“We thank Zach, his wife Rebecca and children Flynn and Rafferty for their contribution to our Club,” Mackie said.
