NRL to take Cattery by Storm in pre-season match
GEELONG will get a taste of elite rugby league when the Melbourne Storm plays a preseason fixture at GMHBA Stadium in February.
The perennial NRL grand finalists will take on the New Zealand Warriors in a trial match on Friday, February 22 at Kardinia Park, in an initiative that will showcase our region to more people.
“This is a massive coup for Geelong, that will bring droves of visitors to the region, boosting businesses and supporting local jobs,” Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren said.
“We are proud to be supporting NRL in Victoria, with more games, better facilities, and new playing fields, helping to support the next generation of rugby players to thrive.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Michael Brown said it was another coup for the venue.
“Melbourne Storm has been one of the best teams in the NRL for a long time and we are thrilled to welcome them to GMHBA Stadium,” he said.
“To be able to host the Melbourne Storm in the pre-season game will be a great bonus for Geelong and will bring another elite sporting team to Australia’s best regional stadium.”
Melbourne Storm chief executive Dave Donaghy said it was a great opportunity for Storm fans in Geelong to get a close look at this year’s runner-up.
“We’re very excited about bringing this match to Kardin- ia Park and giving fans in Geelong and the Bellarine the chance to see elite NRL players in their home town,” Donaghy said.
“We welcome the ongoing support of the Victorian Andrews Government, which help us to give more Victorians the chance to support ‘their’ team in the NRL.”
Victoria will host five major NRL events in the next six years — two State of Origins in 2021 and 2025, a Harvey Norman All Stars game in 2019 and International Test Matches in 2022 and 2023.