Geelong Cats supporters are taking centre stage in a brand-new exhibition that is now open at the Geelong Sports Museum, celebrating the passion, traditions and memories that have connected generations of fans to the club.
GENERATIONS: Cats fans. Then, Now, Always explores the unique relationship between the Geelong Football Club and its loyal supporter base, with more than 100 objects on display spanning well over a century of club history.
Visitors can discover everything from vintage football records, membership tickets and badges to handmade memorabilia and merchandise, with some items dating back to the late 1800s. Highlights include player badges and an autograph book from the 1950s, Geelong membership tickets from the 1930s and 1940s, player figurines from 1961, plus a souvenir premiership book and Cats team badge from 1925.
Former Geelong captain and four-time premiership player Joel Selwood said the dedication of Cats supporters had always been felt by those inside the club.
“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.”
Created by Kardinia Park Stadium Trust, the exhibition examines the traditions, rituals and shared experiences that have shaped the Cats community across generations, whether supporters cheer from the stands at GMHBA Stadium or follow the club from afar.
The Geelong Sports Museum is located at GMHBA Stadium and is open from 10am to 2.30pm, Thursday to Saturday.
For more information, visit https://www.geelongsportsmuseum.vic.gov.au/.
