Geelong Football Club has surpassed 70,000 members for the first time in its history despite crowds being locked out for a large part of the 2021 season.
The club record comes off the back of crowds being locked out for most of 2020 and the season being moved interstate during Victoria’s second wave of COVID-19 last year.
Crowds reached 75 per cent capacity earlier this year, before being locked out completely again for several weeks during Victoria’s most recent lockdown.
Cats chief executive officer Brian Cook congratulated Geelong supporters on their commitment to their club in challenging circumstances.
“The willingness to commit over such a difficult period demonstrates their commitment, and we thrive knowing that our members are with us on the journey,” he said.
“This is really all about our supporters that continue to sign up as members. They are passionate and determined to see the club succeed.”
The amount more than doubles the 30,000 members the club had 14 years ago, with the Cats aiming for 100,000 by 2025.
“Our on-field performance coupled with our strong commitment to improve people’s lives through our community involvement help supporters come on board as members,” Cook said.
“To have added over 40,000 members over that 14-year period is an amazing achievement. Now we will push onto 100,000 members in the next four years.”
Cats captain Joel Selwood also congratulated fans.
“Your loyalty, commitment and dedication to our football club is humbling, inspiring but most of all appreciated,” he said.
“We can’t do what we do without you.”
