Geelong Korea cuts ties with ABL

AUSTRALIAN Baseball League (ABL) team Geelong Korea will not take part in the upcoming 2023/24 season, in an announcement made by the national competition body earlier today.

The ABL will return to its original six-team model ahead of next season, which won’t include the Geleong-based club.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said it was a “really disappointing decision” for the club and the wider community of Geelong.

“Geelong-Korea is a unique club and one that bore the brunt of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Cr Sullivan said.

“I would have liked to see the club given more time and support to re-establish in the ABL, which would help grow the sport locally and capitalise on its international potential.”

L-R: Geelong councillors Ron Nelson and mayor Trent Sullivan enjoy a Geelong Korea game with club executives. Photos: ABL MEDIA/SMP IMAGES

Geelong Korea’s exit from the ABL comes four months after New Zealand team, Auckland Tuatara, went into liquidation and separated from the competition in April.

Geelong Korea, primarily made up of Korean players seeking international competition during the Korean off-season, returned to the ABL prior to 2022/23 after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Baseball Australia CEO Glenn Williams said the decision was reached after thoughtful consideration.

“While this is a tough decision and we are certainly sad to see Geelong Korea leave the Australian Baseball League, 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.

Geelong Korea returned to the ABL in 2022, after COVID-19 caused a two-year absence for the club.

Williams also thanked the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong for their dedication to the club.

“For an international team located in Australia it hasn’t been easy,” Mr Williams said.

“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 Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) and its teams have been major supporters of GK and the ABL.

“Sending some highly talented players who have thrilled fans ABL fans. We will continue to work the KBO in showcasing their talented players in the ABL.”

The Melbourne Aces will become the ABL’s sole Victorian team.