The enduring partnership between Geelong Football Club and Deakin University is set to continue for another three years, marking nearly two decades of collaboration. The renewed agreement ensures Deakin University will remain a vital partner of the Cats until at least the end of 2026.
Deakin University’s vice-chancellor, Professor Iain Martin, expressed enthusiasm about the extension, highlighting the mutual benefits of the partnership. He emphasized the ongoing advancements in sport science from Deakin’s School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, which is globally recognized as a leader in the field. Professor Martin noted, “Our students will also enjoy exciting industry placement opportunities working alongside players at the top of their game and the professional teams who support them to achieve their all.”
The partnership extends beyond just sponsorship, with Deakin maintaining its role as a co-major partner of the Cats’ AFLW program. The collaboration also includes continued joint efforts in areas such as high performance, athlete development, and community engagement. Students from Deakin will have the opportunity to complete placements with the Cats in strength and conditioning, nutrition, and performance technology.
Simon Kelleher, the chief operating officer of Geelong Football Club, praised the partnership’s longevity and the shared commitment to the Geelong community. “We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Deakin University as co-major partners of our AFLW program, and as the official University and Education Partner of the Geelong Cats,” Kelleher stated. He underscored the significant mutual benefits that have been realized over the years, particularly in high performance and athlete development.
Additionally, Deakin will continue to hold the naming rights for the Deakin Cats Community Centre. This state-of-the-art facility at GMHBA Stadium serves as a valuable resource, offered free of charge to community groups throughout the region, further cementing the partnership’s impact on the local community.
The renewed partnership promises to enrich both the university and the football club. It provides students with practical experience in sports science and athletic support, while the Cats benefit from cutting-edge research and innovation in these areas. This collaboration exemplifies how academic and sports institutions can work together to achieve excellence both on and off the field. As the partnership approaches its twentieth year, both organizations look forward to continued success and shared achievements in the seasons to come.
