This week the Geelong Football Club is recognising the Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy. 

The Next Generation Academies (NGA's) are a joint initiative between the AFL and AFL Clubs aimed at the attraction, retention and development of all talented players (both male and female), whilst growing participation in the under-represented segments of our community.

A key objective of the NGA's is to increase the talent pool of Indigenous and Multicultural players. These groups are significantly under-represented in the AFL comparative to the population, and therefore AFL Clubs are incentivised through draft concessions for their role in growing this talent pool.

However, the primary function of the NGA's is to provide a Club based talent program to all kids, using the AFL Clubs' profile and expertise to raise awareness and interest in the programs.

Representatives and volunteers from the Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy have the opportunity to attend Thursday's match against the Western Bulldogs, sitting in the Dulux Community Bay. 

The Dulux Community Bay has been established to provide local community groups, families and individuals the opportunity to attend a Geelong Cats home game. 

During Thursday's match, Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy will also be recognised at quarter time with an on-field introduction, along with a video explaining the fantastic work they do. 

Community Organisation | Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy

The Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy is targeted at Indigenous and Multicultural individuals who may not have the same opportunities participate in skill development or pathway programs.  The program aims to increase the opportunities for young people to learn about and play the game of Australian Rules football.

A key objective of the Next Generation Academy is to increase the number of Indigenous and Multicultural players involved in footy.  This year, 55 individuals represented the Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy.  This was the first year the club has supported both a boys and girls Next Generation Academy team at the NGA Games.

Geelong Cats Next Generation Academy teams will feature in showcase games from 6.00pm on Thursday night. 

The Cats NGA Under 15 boys' and Under 15 girls' teams will take on the Western Bulldogs at GMHBA Stadium, prior to the AFL match at 7.30pm. 

Follow the link here to find out more information on Geelong's Next Generation Academy. 

Geelong Cats members are encouraged to purchase a Dulux Community Bay Membership Add-On, which helps to provide local community groups, families and individuals the opportunity to attend a Geelong Cats AFL home game.