Sporting associations share in grant

THE state government has named several community sporting leagues and associations that will receive grants from the Community Sport Sector COVID-19 Short-term Survival Package.

Last week, Geelong MP Christine Couzens said the grants would help people return to play in a low-risk environment.

“We’re supporting local leagues in the Geelong region to help them through this difficult time, so they can safely operate, and get back to playing the sports they love in the future.”

Geelong Softball Association (GSA) were given $3,250 as part of the program.

GSA treasurer Greg Christie said the grant was vital to the association’s health due to the current lack of revenue.

“We couldn’t keep going (without the grant funding) because we still have to pay some bills along the way, even though we’re not using the rooms.

“Our income has been destroyed since the commencement of COVID-19.

“This will go towards supporting our juniors. We were going to start in August, but it might even be September or even October or November the way it’s going.”

Mr Christie said the enforced hiatus has only ignited the desire of the association’s players to return to the field.

“People want to play, there’s no doubt about it. As soon as we get the green light, we’re ready to go.”

Other local leagues and associations to receive funds from the grant include Barwon South West Swimming Association ($5,626), Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association ($7,500), Geelong Amateur Basketball Association ($15,000), Geelong Athletics ($6,357), Geelong Cricket Association ($3,250), Hockey Geelong ($10,000), South West Golf Association ($7,500), and Young Men’s Christian Association of Geelong Inc ($15,000).