NEXT GENERATION ACADEMIES
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
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 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.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To qualify for the Geelong Cats NGA the player:
- Reside in the Geelong Cats zone in Victoria or the Northern Territory; AND
- Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander; OR
- Have at least one parent born in Africa, Asia, Central America, South America or Oceania (excluding New Zealand)
GEELONG CATS NGA ZONE
The Cats Victorian NGA footprint begins in Lara, incorporating the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula and extends through Warrnambool and the South West to the South Australian border. It also encompasses the Western District and reaches into the Wimmera, including Horsham, Stawell and Ararat. Beyond Victoria, the club has access to NGA talent in East Arnhem Land, Katherine and Daly River in the Northern Territory.
In late 2025, the AFL announced updates to NGA allocations across Victoria and the Northern Territory, which resulted in the Western District and Wimmera regions being allocated to the Cats.
Click here to see more on the NGA Academy Zones.
GEELONG CATS ACADEMIES
| CATS ACADEMY | AGE BRACKET |
| Foundation Programs | 12 and Under |
| Emerging Talent Squad | 13-14 Years Old |
| Development Squad | 15 Years Old |
| Futures Academy | 16-19 Years Old |
FOUNDATIONS PROGRAM
This program fosters engagement with young players from diverse backgrounds, introducing them to football through ‘Come and Try’ days, school partnerships and local club initiatives. Sessions focus on fun, fundamentals and cultural connection.
Various AFL 9s competitions and other initiatives serve as a talent identification tool for participants within the Foundation Pathway age, giving them early exposure to the Geelong Cats NGA programs.
EMERGING TALENT SQUAD
The Emerging Talent Squad supports players as they transition from introductory participation into a more structured football environment, building on fundamental skills and game understanding while introducing consistent training habits and athletic development.
Through a mix of skill-based sessions, modified match play and education workshops, participants continue to develop confidence, connection and competitiveness. The program provides a clear stepping stone within the pathway, preparing players for entry into the Development Squad and future talent identification opportunities.
DEVELOPMENT SQUAD
The Development Squad introduces high-performance training for eligible participants. The NGA Games serve as the entry point, where a boys and girls squad is selected for the carnival in the April school holidays. Training includes a mix of skill sessions, athletic development and tactical education.
Post-carnival, players are offered to participate in sessions both in person and online, aimed at individual development areas both on and off field. The program builds strong fundamentals and prepares players for potential selection in the U15 Geelong Falcons V/Line Cup squads as well as National Indigenous and Multicultural Programs.
FUTURES ACADEMY
The Futures Academy is for players within the AFL Talent Pathways, focusing on tactical awareness, physical development and preparation for elite-level competition. In-person training sessions occur more frequently, emphasising technical skill refinement, athletic profiling and mentorship.
Individualised strength & conditioning programs are offered alongside recovery sessions and online education opportunities. Throughout the year, players will participate in full day In-Club Experiences alongside AFL/AFLW programs, as well as match-day experiences. The Futures Academy is an invitation only program.
Any player aged 11-18 years old that meet the eligibility criteria can register with the Geelong Cats Academy here: https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/31d717
