Local clubs thrilled with Games coup

GEELONG’S budding young swimmers can’t wait for the Commonwealth Games to make a splash in their town.

Aquatics is one of the seven sports on its way to Geelong as part of the 2026 Games, which regional Victoria was confirmed as host of earlier this month.

Geelong Swimming Club is one of a host of local sports groups that could barely contain their excitement that their home city was getting set to welcome one of world sport’s most prestigious events in four years’ time.

President Glenn Benson said the move would provide a huge boost for local juniors, while the club was also keen on the tantalising prospect of upgrades to elite-level facilities as some of the world’s best athletes call Geelong home for the two-week event.

“It will be great to showcase Geelong on the international stage,” he said.

“Having athletes of such calibre compete on our home turf is great inspiration for our club athletes.

“The potential upgrade to local facilities and development of new ones will ensure Geelong becomes a centre of excellence for the aquatic industry. These are facilities that the Geelong community will be able to enjoy for generations.”

Aquatics, which includes swimming, diving, and paraswimming, is one of the blue-ribbon events coming to Geelong for the 2026 Games.

Cricket, hockey, triathlon, beach volleyball, gymnastics and table tennis are also on the menu for local fans.

The City of Greater Geelong has said it has plans for a new indoor sports facility to accommodate gymnastics and table tennis, while authorities also exploring options to expand hockey facilities in the city to cater for top-level athletes.