Geelong coach Chris Scott says a boutique stadium at Kardinia Park could be used for junior footy
Plans for a bespoke stadium catering for up to 8000 fans has been endorsed by Geelong senior coach Chris Scott, saying it would benefit more than just the Cats’ four-team program.
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Geelong coach Chris Scott has welcomed a proposal for a boutique stadium at Kardinia Park, saying it could also potentially be used for junior footy.
This masthead revealed a City of Greater Geelong blueprint for the site has been put on hold until after the local government elections.
However, it is understood that a stadium catering for between 5000 and 8000 people could be constructed, where Geelong Cricket Club currently plays, to cater for VFL and AFLW games.
The Cats proposed a similar idea two years ago but flagged it might need private or government support.
The club has a goal of raising $20m under its “significant” Capital Campaign, one of the most important projects in the club’s history, its most recent annual report reveals.
The fund will invest in elite training facilities and high-performance equipment with a “wide range of social, community and economic benefits”.
The club is also aiming to deliver a “football department refresh” with an AFLW purpose-built locker room to “support genuine inclusion and quality across all programs” before the season begins.
It would also include an upgrade of the club’s elite high performance facilities, including “increasing the footprint of the football department” to cater for all four programs.
“We have a clear opportunity with this project to work towards gender equity for women in sport, to deepen our support for our community, and to propel all our teams into the future,” the report revealed.
Scott’s endorsement comes as some tenant groups are meeting again with consultant Urbis this week about the masterplan.
Speaking to reporters after the Cats’ thrilling five-point win over the Adelaide Crows last Saturday night at GMHBA Stadium, Scott said a “bespoke” stadium would suit the club’s four-team program.
“I more than welcome it, I think it’s completely appropriate,” Scott said.
“We’re so fortunate to have, I think ... the best regional stadium in the country.
“I’ve tried around the world a bit, for a regional venue this is outstanding and it’s got the potential to be even better.
“We run four programs within our operation here at Geelong and it only makes sense we could have more of a bespoke, boutique stadium that’s sort of suited to the 16-a-side game in a little bit smaller (ground) but with the right amenity for the supporters as well.
“Our ‘W’ program has just started, but it’s exciting, the club’s invested in it and it just makes perfect sense for the community as well
“It would be perfect for junior footy as well.
“I think just assuming that what’s ideal for AFL men’s players can just be reused for young kids or female players doesn’t show enough thought in my opinion.
“So the fact they’re thinking about it is a good thing.”
Originally published as Geelong coach Chris Scott says a boutique stadium at Kardinia Park could be used for junior footy
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