Elite Korean baseballers arrive in Geelong for summer training

MORE than 80 elite Korean baseball players and staff from Korean Baseball Organisation premier league club KT Wiz have arrived in Geelong to begin the team’s 2026 summer training camp.

The six-week preseason program marks the club’s return to the region under an existing Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Greater Geelong, local baseball clubs and the Melbourne Aces.

Geelong was chosen from a range of international locations as the Korean team’s Australian training base, a move that has already delivered benefits for local baseball and the broader regional economy.

Last year’s training camp saw 85 players and staff base themselves in the region, generating an estimated $1.6 million in local economic activity and supporting about 75 jobs in the accommodation, hospitality and tourism sectors.

This year’s touring group includes players, coaches, training staff and club executives. They will live and train in Geelong over the six-week camp.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the return of the club reflected the strength of the partnership established last year.

“We hope that after another successful summer program, we’ll be able to enter into a more longer-term partnership with KT Wiz for training in Geelong,” he said.

“Outside of training, the team will once again enjoy our golf courses and beaches, try the local cuisine and support local businesses.”

A community day will be held on February 8 from 1pm, giving local fans the opportunity to meet the players and see the team up close.

Further details will be released in the coming days through the city’s social media channels and Events Geelong.

The partnership with KT Wiz has supported continued investment in the Geelong Baseball Centre at Waurn Ponds, including recent city-funded upgrades to Diamond One.

The $800,000 redevelopment included new irrigation and drainage systems, surface corrections, upgraded turf and adjustments to the warning track to ensure the field meets national baseball standards.

Deakin ward councillor Andrew Katos said the improvements would support the venue’s role as the region’s premier baseball facility.

“The main diamond at the Geelong Baseball Centre is the premier baseball field in our region, hosting local competitions, elite tournaments and international events,” he said.

“The city recognises the importance of promoting baseball in Geelong and Australia and it’s critical that the playing surface at this showcase venue meets high standards for safety, performance and presentation.

“Our partnership with KT Wiz supports investment into the Geelong Baseball Centre and enhances the image and profile of the Geelong region as a sporting and tourism hub.”