Cronulla Sharks Announce Stadium Naming Rights with Ocean Protect

The Cronulla Sharks have announced a landmark three-year stadium naming rights agreement with Ocean Protect, establishing Ocean Protect Stadium as the club’s new home from 2026.

The partnership, launched at Cronulla Beach, is a natural fit for the Sharks given the club’s iconic coastal surroundings and Ocean Protect’s core mission: to stop stormwater pollution from entering Australia’s oceans and waterways. Ocean Protect is an Australian organisation that has been dedicated to this environmental cause for over two decades.

Heralding the environmental alignment as a milestone moment for the club’s corporate family, Sharks Group CEO, Dino Mezzatesta, said: “It’s a significant day as we join forces with Ocean Protect, emphasising our commitment to collaborating with impactful and innovative organisations.”

“Our stadium is surrounded by iconic waterways, so we feel strongly about Ocean Protect’s incredible work to ensure our beaches, bays and rivers are kept clean for all to enjoy,” Mezzatesta said.

The deal holds particular significance for Ocean Protect CEO, Michael Wicks, revealed his deep personal connection to the club and the Sutherland Shire community.

“This is a full-circle moment for me and for Ocean Protect. I’ve been a lifelong Sharks supporter, growing up in the Sutherland Shire and playing in the junior rugby league for years, including some games at Ocean Protect Stadium.” 

The naming rights reflect a convergence of environmental responsibility and community spirit.

Affirming the shared passion, director and general manager (NSW & ACT) of Ocean Protect, Harout Tcherkezian, said: “This is a significant and meaningful milestone in Ocean Protect’s journey, bringing our love for healthy waterways together with the spirit of sport.”

Ocean Protect Stadium will be officially christened when the Sharks host the Titans in their Round 1 NRL clash on Saturday, March 7, 2026, following the imminent unveiling of new signage.

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