The Geelong Football Netball League Grand Finals are set to return to the Kardinia Park precinct for the first time since 2019.
As part of the Geelong Cats’ strategic partnership with AFL Barwon, the Cats have worked with the regional football and netball body, along with Kardinia Park Stadium Trust (KPST) to develop the plan to host the GFNL’s biggest day at GMHBA Stadium and the adjoining Kardinia Park Netball Complex.
The three parties share a collective belief that community football and netball Grand Finals deserve to be played at the elite sporting precinct,
KPST last hosted the GFNL Finals in 2019, and AFL Barwon has shared a mutually-beneficial and community-focused approach to exploring a return to Kardinia Park in 2024. The AFL Barwon & Geelong FC Strategic Partnership, launched in May 2023, has springboarded collaboration between the three organisations and has produced several strategic outcomes, for the benefit of the region, community stakeholders and Clubs alike.
The strategic decision between the Geelong Cats, AFL Barwon and KPST is aimed to enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators alike, setting the stage for an exciting and memorable event.
Geelong Football Club’s Chief Strategy & Growth Officer and General Counsel, Marcus King said:
“We’re pleased to support AFL Barwon in having the biggest day on the GFNL calendar return to Kardinia Park and to see community football Grand Finals played on the hallowed turf of GMHBA Stadium again.
“We see GMHBA Stadium, and the Kardinia Park precinct, as the home of sporting and special events for the region, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and AFL Barwon to ensure a highly successful day for our community and all involved.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust CEO Gerard Griffin said:
“The Trust is thrilled to again host the local 2024 Geelong Football Netball League Grand Final at GMHBA Stadium.
“With the collaboration of our three organisations, we can have this aspect of community sport, both football and netball back into the precinct where they rightfully belong.”
AFL Barwon Regional General Manager, Edward Wilson said:
“AFL Barwon shares incredibly strong partnerships with both the Geelong Football Club as well as Kardinia Park Stadium Trust. This announcement secures a future that promotes and elevates our region, to the platform it deserves.
“We’re grateful for the continued support of both GFC & KPST, and their community-focused mindsets to support the growth of both Football & Netball within the Barwon region. This tri-parity partnership is uniquely Barwon, and we look forward to collectively working together in years to come.”
The 2024 GFNL Grand Finals will be held on Friday, 27 September (AFL Grand Final Public Holiday).
