A pioneer of Geelong’s AFLW program, Garing made an immediate impact on the playing group with her leadership in its infancy, featuring in every Geelong game across its first three AFLW seasons before being moved to the inactive list ahead of Season 6 when she was pregnant.

Staying involved at the club by still attending training and taking on a matchday role in the coaching department, Garing gave birth to Parker in May 2022 and worked with medical staff both at the club and externally to return to playing, eventually working her way back to be available for selection in the second half of Season 7.

Garing returned to competitive matches in Geelong’s 2023 VFLW season, finishing third in the club’s Best and Fairest off the back of just seven games.

Ultimately making her inspirational AFLW return in Round 1, 889 days after her last game at the top level, Garing has played six games to date in 2023, averaging eight disposals and six tackles.

Garing has also had an instrumental influence off the field, winning two Carter Family Community Champion awards for her work in and with the wider Geelong community.

“Despite being a Geelong supporter growing up, I could never have dreamt of playing for the Cats because it wasn’t a possibility at that point in time. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to pull on the Hoops and pave the way for future generations of young girls that can now dream of playing football at the elite level,” Garing said.

“From the very beginning, I have felt right at home at Geelong, from the early days of learning the fundamentals of the game to being supported throughout my pregnancy journey with Parker, and my return to playing AFLW. Through all aspects of my journey, I couldn’t have asked for a better environment to help me develop and thrive as an athlete and a mum.

“I would like to thank everyone that has played a role in my football journey, in particular my husband Tony, my son Parker and our parents for their ongoing support and encouragement.”