For a hundred years, a powerful alliance has been forging history in Australian sport. It's the extraordinary story of Ford and the Geelong Football Club, a partnership that began in 1925 with a simple handshake and a shared vision, blossoming into the longest-running collaboration in professional sports worldwide. This isn't merely about a logo gracing a jersey; it's a deep-seated, genuine friendship built on bedrock values of unwavering loyalty, unyielding grit, and an enduring commitment to backing each other.
For a hundred years, a powerful alliance has been forging history in Australian sport. It's the extraordinary story of Ford and the Geelong Football Club, a partnership that began in 1925 with a simple handshake and a shared vision, blossoming into the longest-running collaboration in professional sports worldwide. This isn't merely about a logo gracing a jersey; it's a deep-seated, genuine friendship built on bedrock values of unwavering loyalty, unyielding grit, and an enduring commitment to backing each other.
This deep connection has transcended the decades, navigating the rough-and-tumble early days of the VFL and adapting seamlessly to the high-octane pace of the modern AFL. Through every era, every triumph, and every setback, that iconic blue oval has proudly adorned the Cats' guernsey since 1977. It has been a silent, steadfast witness to ten premiership triumphs, countless unforgettable moments etched into the very fabric of Australian sporting lore, and the roar of generations of passionate fans. For many, the Ford emblem on the Geelong jumper is as much a part of the club's identity as the hoops themselves, a symbol of consistent support and shared ambition.
This deep connection has transcended the decades, navigating the rough-and-tumble early days of the VFL and adapting seamlessly to the high-octane pace of the modern AFL. Through every era, every triumph, and every setback, that iconic blue oval has proudly adorned the Cats' guernsey since 1977. It has been a silent, steadfast witness to ten premiership triumphs, countless unforgettable moments etched into the very fabric of Australian sporting lore, and the roar of generations of passionate fans. For many, the Ford emblem on the Geelong jumper is as much a part of the club's identity as the hoops themselves, a symbol of consistent support and shared ambition.
This shared drive for excellence resonates from the highest echelons of the boardroom, where strategic decisions are made, right down to the players battling it out on the backline, embodying the spirit of relentless improvement.
But this story isn't just about football; it's deeply interwoven with the very soul of Geelong itself. Ford's roots in the region run profoundly deep, extending far beyond the sporting arena. From its vital Norlane research hub, a hive of innovation, to the cutting-edge YouYangs Proving Ground, where future vehicles are rigorously tested, Ford is an indispensable part of the community's economic and social landscape. This commitment is further exemplified through impactful initiatives like the Women in STEM Scholarship at Deakin University. This program isn't just about financial aid; it's a powerful investment in young women who will shape the future of technology, engineering, and design, mirroring the forward-thinking spirit of both Ford and the Cats.
But this story isn't just about football; it's deeply interwoven with the very soul of Geelong itself. Ford's roots in the region run profoundly deep, extending far beyond the sporting arena. From its vital Norlane research hub, a hive of innovation, to the cutting-edge YouYangs Proving Ground, where future vehicles are rigorously tested, Ford is an indispensable part of the community's economic and social landscape. This commitment is further exemplified through impactful initiatives like the Women in STEM Scholarship at Deakin University. This program isn't just about financial aid; it's a powerful investment in young women who will shape the future of technology, engineering, and design, mirroring the forward-thinking spirit of both Ford and the Cats.
The enduring legacy of this partnership was vibrantly reaffirmed on April 4, 2025, when a new, exciting chapter was officially inked. At the hallowed grounds of GMHBA Stadium, amidst an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation and pride, a five-year extension of this remarkable collaboration was announced. The momentous occasion saw Executive Chair Bill Ford, President Grant McCabe, CEO Steve Hocking, and Andrew Birkic gather to mark this significant milestone. Their words spoke not just of contracts, but of a shared journey, a testament to a story that continues to unfold, promising even more shared triumphs, deeper community impact, and countless more unforgettable moments in the decades to come. It's a partnership built to last, driven by a shared past and an exciting future.
The enduring legacy of this partnership was vibrantly reaffirmed on April 4, 2025, when a new, exciting chapter was officially inked. At the hallowed grounds of GMHBA Stadium, amidst an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation and pride, a five-year extension of this remarkable collaboration was announced. The momentous occasion saw Executive Chair Bill Ford, President Grant McCabe, CEO Steve Hocking, and Andrew Birkic gather to mark this significant milestone. Their words spoke not just of contracts, but of a shared journey, a testament to a story that continues to unfold, promising even more shared triumphs, deeper community impact, and countless more unforgettable moments in the decades to come. It's a partnership built to last, driven by a shared past and an exciting future.