I am a member of the Geelong Cheer Squad and am petitioning to bring back our weekly banner for the boys. 

On the 15th April the AFL announced the decision the reinstate the run-through banners with COVID safe plans from round 6. Unfortunately, Geelong football club made the decision that our club will not be having the return of the banners.  

The past weeks have been very disappointing for our Geelong players, members and community alike. Our players have the right to be celebrated on reaching their milestone performances, and build on the pre game emotions and hype.

I know I speak for many when I say, "It's terrible to watch as other teams raise their banners to support their teams and we have to stand by and have nothing to show our team". 

I have seen many comments on social media asking "why aren't the Cheer Squad doing the banners?" and "It's pathetic that we aren't doing the banners". I know myself and many other squad members are extremely disappointed that the club have made this decision and am wanting to show support for the return of the run-through. 

I was bought up in the cheer squad as a 15 year old, travelled many places to watch our boys. I have had the privilege of not only making but holding up the banner and would hope that my children and grandchildren have the same privilege. My grandaughter used the floggers for the first time on the weekend and to see her face was amazing. I just hope by signing this we can show the club what it means to the community and we can get the banner back so not only our players , but for future generations. 

I have read an extract from AFL footy boss Steve Hocking, he said. "Banners are a special part of footy and have a deep and meaningful connection to supporters and clubs across the country." 

BRING BACK THE RUN THROUGH!!!