They are heart and soul of sporting organisations across the globe and now, one special supporter base is set to be honoured through a brand-new exhibition.
GENERATIONS: Cats fans. Then, Now, Always opened today at Geelong Sports Museum, paying homage to the club’s passionate and dedicated fans.
Over 100 items are on display from vintage footy records to merchandise, membership tickets, badges and handmade objects, some dating back as far as the late 1800s.
Highlight pieces include player badges and an autograph book from the 1950s, Geelong membership tickets from the 30s and 40s, player figurines from 1961 and even a souvenir premiership book and Cats team badge both dating back to 1925.
As dedicated fans follow the club’s every movement, former Geelong captain and four-time premiership player Joel Selwood says the unwavering support is felt internally by the players, staff and officials.
“Some of my fondest memories from my playing days are the interactions I had with Geelong supporters,” he said.
“From the atmosphere they create from the stands, to the people you meet along the journey, every single one of them left a lasting impact on me.”
“Supporters really are the lifeblood of any sporting organisation, and many of them make great sacrifices in order to follow their club so for Cats fans to be honoured with their own exhibition is a real treat.”
The exhibition is an initiative of Kardinia Park Stadium Trust (KPST), with the hope of capturing the special connection Cats fans share with their beloved club.
“As custodians of Geelong Sports Museum at GMHBA Stadium, KPST understands that Cats fans are the cornerstone of the Geelong Football Club and we wanted to find a special way to capture what it means to be a Cats supporter,” said Gerard Griffin, CEO Kardinia Park Stadium Trust.
“The exhibition focuses on how supporters share moments, express identity, and build community through traditions and rituals that have shaped generations across Geelong and beyond.”
“In particular, we look at how game day is lived — from long-held rituals and superstitions to the different ways people experience the Cats, whether at the ground or far away…”
Located at GMHBA Stadium, the Geelong Sports Museum is open from 10.00am – 2.30pm, Thursday to Saturday.
For more information on GENERATIONS: Cats fans. Then, Now, Always, or other exhibitions on offer at Geelong Sports Museum, visit https://www.geelongsportsmuseum.vic.gov.au/
