GeelongPort is proud to continue its support for grassroots girls’ sport through its partnership with Football Geelong, sponsoring all seven girls’ representative teams in 2026 and reinforcing its commitment to equity, access and participation across the region.
This year marks a significant milestone for Football Geelong, with an equal number of girls’ and boys’ representative teams selected for the first time. The milestone reflects strong and growing participation at the grassroots level, with a record 785 young players nominating for trials and 191 selected to represent Geelong.
GeelongPort’s sponsorship is directed towards subsidising tournament and uniform costs, helping reduce financial barriers to participation and ensuring opportunity in representative football is shaped by talent and commitment, rather than cost.
GeelongPort CEO Brett Winter said community sport plays a vital role in building confidence, connection and future opportunity, particularly for girls.
“Supporting girls’ sport at the grassroots level is a practical and meaningful way to advance equity,” Mr Winter said.
“By removing barriers to participation, we help ensure young people across our region can access the benefits of sport, regardless of their circumstances.”
Geelong will also host the 2026 Football Victoria Country Championships over the King’s Birthday Long Weekend in June, providing local players with the opportunity to compete on a state stage in front of their home community. Teams will travel to Shepparton later in the year to continue championship competition.
To mark the start of the season, Mr Winter and GeelongPort Corporate Affairs team member Tegan Evans attended the Football Geelong season launch and kit presentation evening on Tuesday 31 March, recognising the commitment of players, families and volunteers who underpin grassroots sport.
GeelongPort has proudly supported Football Geelong and the Country Championships since 2019, recognising the important role community sport—particularly girls’ sport—plays in strengthening regional communities and creating inclusive pathways for young people.
