The NBL supports the City of Greater Geelong’s arena upgrade plans
The NBL says it would be compelled to “strongly consider” a league licence for Geelong if the local council’s proposed arena revamp is realised.
A council-proposed sports and entertainment centre at Geelong Arena would compel the NBL to “strongly consider” a new licence for the city, its chief executive says.
League boss Larry Kestelman earlier this year said Geelong would only be considered for a licence if it had an elite-level venue with the existing arena falling short of that benchmark, despite it hosting Geelong Venom’s WNBL games.
He also said he was open to reviving the Geelong Supercats brand if a licence was granted.
City of Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj told this masthead this month the council wanted to build its proposed Regional Indoor Sports and Events Centre at the arena, catering for elite level competition and international music acts.
The plan was described by the council as the “missing link” in providing for large scale local events.
The council’s Basketball and Netball Needs Analysis from February, 2022 recommended an indoor sports venue with a show court catering for up to 5000 spectators, which would complement the planned convention centre.
However, it highlighted “poor spectator amenities” and “significant challenges”, with an option to demolish, sell or replace the arena.
This masthead previously revealed the arena’s issues with asbestos in its roof space.
In a statement, NBL Group chief executive David Stevenson said he welcomed the council’s ambition.
“(We) see this as an incredible opportunity for Geelong to have a brand-new stadium with the ability to attract 8000 fans to top-tier sports and entertainment events,” Stevenson said.
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“With the unprecedented interest and growth the NBL is currently experiencing, this would compel us to strongly consider a new license for a club in Geelong.
“It would also be a welcome addition for the region’s WNBL team, the Geelong Venom, and enable them to attract a bigger audience and experience enhanced game days in much needed state-of-the-art facilities.”
The Venom’s opening game is on October 18 at the arena against Sydney Uni Flames.
Originally published as The NBL supports the City of Greater Geelong’s arena upgrade plans
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