ABL return not ruled out by Geelong Korea

GEELONG-BASED Australian Baseball League (ABL) team Geelong Korea has not ruled out a potential return to Australia’s top baseball competition, following the club’s sudden departure from the league last Tuesday.

Director of Happy Rising, parent company of Geelong Korea, Inkook Choi, said he hopes to see the team return to the ABL, but was unable to comment on any specifics regarding the club and league’s separation.

“We would like to conclude this situation in a friendly term with the ABL, and we are doing our best for Geelong Korea to be able to compete in the ABL in the future,” Mr Choi said.

“Commenting on this particular situation, in my opinion, wouldn’t help us to achieve meaningful outcome whatsoever.

“I appreciate the support provided by the City of Greater Geelong and Geelong Korea’s fans.

“I would like to see more support so Geelong Korea can come back to the ABL.”

Geelong Korea joined Auckland Tuatara as ABL franchises to exit the national competition ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Geelong Korea, primarily made up of Korean players as a means of staying fit in the Korean baseball off-season, returned to the ABL for season 2022/23 after a two-year COVID absence.

Baseball Australia CEO Glenn Williams said it was a tough decision to part ways with Geelong Korea.

“The decision has been made following in-depth consultation with all parties, and in the best interest of the Australian Baseball League, fellow teams, corporate partners, and fans of the game.” Mr Williams said.

“For an international team located in Australia it hasn’t been easy.

“The support shown by the Victorian Government and Geelong City Council of GK, and baseball more broadly, has been unwavering.

“We are all grateful for the support shown.”

The schedule for the 2023/24 ABL season has not yet been released.