It's footy's big day, but most fans won't see their team play

[goswannie14]

Here is an interesting article which addresses what we have all been through in the last couple of seasons. In particular I like the way Joh n Hirst thinks the problem could be fixed.

For years I have been nurturing a plan to defeat the AFL. What if all regular members refused to renew their memberships until the AFL guaranteed that members would have first claim on tickets if their team made it to the grand final. The clubs need the money from members; they would pressure the league to yield ? and victory would be won. I know a boycott is a crude, old-fashioned instrument, but I think it might work. My children don't.

Or run for Parliament and introduce this type of legislation

The principle would be this: no sports association can sell season's membership unless members have first claim on attending all matches played in the season in which their team is competing.

There is another political lever that could be activated. State and federal governments contribute funds to the AFL in various ways. This week both governments have committed themselves to payments to help Geelong with the building of a new stand. Very simply, governments could make their grants to AFL clubs conditional on the league giving ordinary members first claim on grand final tickets if their team was playing.

I know it's a pipe dream, but wouldn't it be nice if all members of the competing clubs could attend the GF each year.

[ScottH]

It makes for a better atmosphere, as well, when the majority of the crowd belongs to the 2 competing clubs. Not 50-60%, plus the rest who are just there to enjoy the game.

[swantastic]

That's why prelims are better,does every body who attended lasts years prelim against the Dockers remember the swantastic atmosphere.

[ScottH]

That's why prelims are better,does every body who attended lasts years prelim against the Dockers remember the swantastic atmosphere.

I didn't attend, but there was hardly any noise that could be heard over the TV. Others I spoke to said the same thing.

Geelong/Pies game was a different story.

[goswannie14]

The Swans/Saints PF in 2005 was a fantastic atmosphere.

[swantastic]

The Swans/Saints PF in 2005 was a fantastic atmosphere.

Especially when they smashed them in the last qtr.

[ScottH]

The Swans/Saints PF in 2005 was a fantastic atmosphere.

Yes,

Especially when they smashed them in the last qtr.

and definitely yes.

[Mike_B]

The full article can be found here. It's a huge issue and unfortunately the AFL will turn around and tell you that they have to look after their sponsors because without them there would be no competition at all - of course without supporters there would be no attraction to sponsors. So take a look at what is most critical and work to fix that issue first!