There are not many figures in the AFL that carry a legacy quite like Stephen Wells.    

A master recruiter with an extensive history of finding talent where others could not, Wells has been an integral part of Geelong's sustained success with his ability to secure top players through the trade and draft. 

Ask any Cats supporter and they will know his name, credited with selections like Paul Chapman (Pick #31 - 1999) and Corey Enright (Pick #47 - 1999), through to Joel Selwood (Pick #7 - 2006) and Tom Stewart (Pick #40 - 2016). 

The origins of this story trace all the way back to another familiar figure in Geelong folklore, with Neville Bruns providing insight into the decision that landed Stephen Wells in his role. 

52:42

Celebrating 40 Years of Stephen Wells

As we celebrate his 40th year with Geelong, hear the story of Stephen Wells, the mastermind behind some of Geelong's greatest acquisitions that helped make the Cats what they are today. Proudly Presented by McCafe.

“I actually appointed Stephen Wells in the role," Bruns said. 

"I retired in 1992, got asked by Ron Hovey and Greg Durham to join the board directly after I retired at the end of '92. I spent four years on the board as Football Director and Chairman of Selectors. I was probably the last of the Chairman of Selectors, I think they got rid of that title and maybe I destroyed it.

"But in 1995 when we appointed Gary Ayres to come on board, Wellsy was part of that. There was no-one better and I think he has got a pretty good track record to prove that.

"I had a good chat to him not long ago and he has had a magnificent career at this club, and he is such a humble person.

"I really take my hat off to him, we couldn't have got a better bloke for the job.”

Anyone who knows Wells would note the quiet, humble nature that he presents while always taking an interest in the people around him. 

13:15

Neville Bruns & Jack Martin Press Conference | Jumper Presentation

Neville Bruns & Jack Martin spoke to media after Bruns present Martin with his former number 19. Proudly Presented by Ford

For Bruns it was no different, noting that he recognised those strong qualities which would ultimately help the Cats to land a plethora of talented players. 

“It was probably his quietness, but his thoroughness that stood out," Bruns said.

"He wasn't a bloke like me that just talks a lot, you could see him thinking on anything that you asked him. He would hesitate for a bit and then give you an answer, so he was very calculated.

"From that I thought well this guy is going to sit back, he will approach people and families in the right way which will help bring people to the club. I have known some recruiting people prior to Stephen that were very Gung-ho, they only last a short time and then move on.

"Where as Stephen he just sits in the background, very good and very humble, a very proud family man and a very proud Geelong person. He has done a terrific job.”