SIZEABLE interest is already growing for a new rugby league club in Geelong after several failed attempts in previous years, but this time around may be different.<\/p>\n
A group of rugby enthusiasts and past players have begun the early proceedings to form the Geelong Sharks Rugby League Club.<\/p>\n
Led by former Geelong player Michael Bakker, the Sharks will emerge in time for the 2023 campaign with two senior men’s sides, a women’s side, and junior teams in the under 12s, under 14s and under 16s age brackets.<\/p>\n
“I only did my initial social post last weekend and within days I had people ringing me and texting me about this club,” Bakker said.<\/p>\n
“It’s just overwhelming that so many people are wanting to play rugby league, most of which didn’t even know there was rugby union in Geelong already.<\/p>\n
“It’s plain to see there is a need here in Geelong for rugby league.”<\/p>\n
There have been several attempts to establish a rugby league side in the region.<\/p>\n
Geelong Bulldogs were established in 1991 at Osborne Park but the side went defunct two years later.<\/p>\n
Eleven years later, the Geelong Tiger Snakes were formed and lasted until 2010. The Tiger Snakes were renamed the Raiders and folded again in 2012.<\/p>\n
Bakker is hopeful the Sharks don’t meet a similar fate.<\/p>\n
“It’s hard to not be optimistic because there is so much interest in this already,” Baker said.<\/p>\n
“There is a possibility that another club could arise out of this in addition to the Sharks.<\/p>\n
“There’s a free-flowing effect here and we’re really excited about it.”<\/p>\n
Geelong Sharks is investigating the feasibility of setting up a ground at Howard Glover Reserve in East Geelong.<\/p>\n
All interested players are encouraged to reach out to the club at geelongsharks2022@gmail.com to find out more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BY VINNIE VAN OORSCHOTSIZEABLE interest is alrea […]<\/p>\n