GEELONG has scrapped its plan to charge non-members an entry fee to watch pre-season training, following negative feedback from supporters.

 

The Cats will hold two open training sessions in January, and had planned to charge adult non-members five dollars to attend, and junior non-members two dollars, while members would be admitted for free.

 

It would have been the first time a club had charged its fans for the right to watch training.

 

But on Thursday night, the Cats announced they would now allow all supporters to enter for free.

 

"The club's goal in [holding the open training sessions] was to provide greater access and value for our members, and at the same time provide an avenue for non-members that may attend the opportunity to do so," a Geelong statement said.

 

"The feedback from our members around the day has been very positive, however there has been a negative reaction from many non-members.

 

"As such the club has decided to continue with the day, however it will be open to anyone wishing to attend.

 

"This decision was made to ensure that our members do not miss the opportunity to see the team train during the pre-season."

 

On Wednesday night, Cats CEO Brian Cook had defended the decision to charge an entry fee to non-members, saying it was vital the club provided incentives to sign on as a member.

 

Profits from the event were set to be directed toward the club's community programs.

 

The open training sessions are on 13 and 20 January at Simonds Stadium.