He's Geelong's captain, but Patrick Dangerfield says his most 'satisfying' role is off the AFL field

With another AFL grand final on the horizon for Patrick Dangerfield, it's looking like he might be able to lead another team to a coveted flag. 

A win on Saturday would cement the Geelong Cats captain's sporting career up there with some of the greatest in AFL history, not to mention add even more to his legacy at the club.

But while this is a massive moment for Dangerfield, it's the years before it that have led him here, and the people behind the scenes pushing him forward. 

Off the field, he's dad to three gorgeous kids, who he shares with wife Mardi – his greatest supporter. 

Dangerfield's professional AFL journey started in 2007, when he was drafted by the Adelaide Crows. 

He made his debut in 2008 and it didn't take long for him to make a name for himself.

With speed, power and versatility, he had several successful seasons at the Crows and soon started to earn plenty of accolades like awards and rep honours. 

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But after spending most of his teenage years in Geelong, he made his way back to the Cats in 2016. 

It was then things really stepped up a notch, and after an incredible debut with the club Dangerfield won the prestigious Brownlow Medal. 

He was part of the premiership winning team in 2022, when Geelong won the flag, and he was awarded the role of captain the following year. 

But while this role is huge, he's got an even more important one at home: dad. 

He and Mardi share George, Felicity, and Winnifred, and as dedicated as he is to the field, it's the same with his family. 

"Being a dad is undoubtedly my single greatest achievement," he told Sports Dads of The Year. 

"It's incredibly enjoyable, satisfying, and tiring – all those things rolled into one. But the joy and fulfilment I get from my children make it all worth it."

Like most dads, he cherishes the everyday moments with his family, in particular dinner time.

"We always talk about our day at dinner. We discuss what we learned, where we had fun, and all that sort of stuff. I love that time with them," he explained.

For him, another highlight is watching his kids play sport, something he's also actively involved in.

He's even shown off his skills, helping out at their Sunday morning Auskick sessions. 

"When I'm there, I'm the runner, and I really enjoy it. I hope the kids enjoy it too," he added.

And while he's the biggest supporter for his kids when they hit the field, it's Mardi who is his. 

The couple met in high school and she's been there in the stands for him since his debut game. 

They tied the knot in January 2016, surrounded by friends and family in a stunning ceremony at Terindah Estate. 

The couple, who mostly stay away from the spotlight, especially when it comes to their family, are focused on putting their kids first. 

Mardi, an occupational therapist, explained teamwork is key when it comes to juggling their careers and their family. 

"We're both all in when it comes to the kids," she said in an interview with Missta. 

"Whether it's bedtime, school pick-ups, or just being present, we make it a priority to share the load and communicate."

Elsewhere in the interview she spoke about the importance of maintaining a connection as a couple and making time for their relationship. 

"It's easy to get caught up in the chaos, but carving out time as a couple reminds us why we make such a great team," she said. 

The 2025 AFL Grand Final may be a milestone for his career, but it's clear the path here – both personally and professionally – has been a special one for Dangerfield too.

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