As part of the ‘Leaders in Clubs’ segment, Athletics Victoria caught up with Geelong Guild Athletics Club President, Matthew Wade.
Filling the roles of athlete, coach, and team manager – four year President Matthew Wade has had a lengthy involvement with Geelong Guild Athletics Club. Beginning his time with the club as a coach, brought up through the formidable local school coaching scene, Wade has been involved with the club for 12 years.
Wade is quick to point out an area of recent strength, “Our club prides ourselves on being a welcoming, family-based club. We have developed a strong relay culture over the last 10 years and are proud of our success in this space.” An achievement Wade is most proud of, Geelong Guild have developed a healthy sprinting roster over recent years. An enviable membership list includes Victorian 100m Champion Jake Penny, World Under 20 representative Harvey Murrant, Josh Perdrisat, Finlay and Tess Kirsopp-Cole, Georgia Boal, Nyah Brown and Will Gray.
The club has utilised the competitive pause to redesign the club website, whilst re-establishing a series of club records. A project Wade has taken particular interest in, developing a scholarship for athletes who have emerged from circumstances of considerable socioeconomic disadvantage.
A club president at 30, Wade takes immense pride in the friendships and diversity of individuals the club has brought him in contact with.