The Geelong Cats will aim to pass 37,000 members for the first time in 2009. The Cats enjoyed a record 36,850 members in 2008 and will be seeking to better that in the new year.

“That is the goal; that is the challenge we have set for ourselves and hopefully our supporters will pick up that challenge and run with it,” Geelong CEO Brian Cook said today as membership for the new season went on sale.

“We try to be realistic and while emotionally we may feel we should aim for a larger increase, we try to be realistic. We see this as reasonable goal in 2009 despite a reduced capacity at Skilled Stadium of 24,000 and expected economic restraint in the community

“Traditionally there is a drop off from some members that can not renew for various reasons, but we feel confident that our members and supporters have been treated to some great footy over the past two years and we expect that to continue in 2009. We have also worked hard at ensuring that a membership is not just about the game.

“We have looked to enhance the entire match day experience and we have rebranded the club over the past 18 months.

“Today is the first day that tickets are available and we encourage all of those members that are renewing along with those coming back to the club or joining for the first time to get on board. I think the next 12 months will be as memorable as the past two years.”