CATS ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER OPEN TRAINING SESSION: SCOTT PROMISES ‘UNFORGETTABLE, NEVER SEEN BEFORE’ MOMENTS
In a historic first for the club’s 160-plus year history, Geelong Cats have officially announced their inaugural open training session and extended a warm invitation to all fans to be part of the landmark event taking place next week – with head coach Chris Scott confirming it will deliver “never seen before, unforgettable moments” for everyone in attendance.
Scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the session will kick off at 10am at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus, giving supporters a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the AFL side in action as they put the final touches on their 2026 season preparations. The club has also revealed four exclusive takeaways will be handed to every fan who shows up, serving as a lasting memento of this groundbreaking day.
Scott – one of the AFL’s most successful and stable coaches – was on hand to confirm the news, expressing his excitement at bringing players and fans closer than ever before. “This is something we’ve been wanting to do for a long time, and the timing feels perfect as we build towards 2026,” Scott said. “Our fans have stood by us through everything, and this is our chance to give them access they’ve never had before – moments they’ll remember for years to come. I can promise you’ll see things on the training paddock that have never been open to the public.”
The coach’s own achievements at Geelong are exceptional: he has guided the club to two premierships in 2011 and 2022, holds the highest winning percentage for any coach with over 150 games, oversaw a record-setting 13-win start in his debut year, earned multiple All-Australian coaching selections, and maintained consistent finals appearances with a top-eight position for most of his tenure. His backing of the open training session underscores its significance for the club and its supporters.
Fans attending will get to watch the full AFL squad – including stars like Patrick Dangerfield, Tom Hawkins and Cameron Guthrie, plus emerging talents pushing for 2026 spots – take part in match simulation drills, skill sessions and a special Q&A segment with Scott and key players. While details of the four takeaways are being kept under wraps, the club has hinted they will be unique items designed exclusively for this event.
Deakin University has partnered with the Cats to ensure the venue is ready to welcome hundreds of supporters, with free parking available and food and beverage stalls on site. The club is encouraging fans to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Geelong Cats train in an open setting for the very first time.
