True but there isn’t an over saturation of clubs in those two areas unlike Sydney. There was no drop in tv audience when the bears were removed and clubs merged. No reason to think the removal or relocation of a couple of Sydney clubs is going to have any dramatic effect on the 200-300k fta viewers that tune in for most games from Sydney.
That's correct .But that may not be the case with new stadiums . in place and upgraded out suburban grounds upgraded to NRL standard.I repeat ,there are people who claim there is oversaturation in Sydney,and there are people who don't believe that is the case.
Those who believe that ,are either out of town club supporters, or those who are ATM in a position of financial and or membership strength.
There are people who believe we should only expand into Qld and not go to non heartland areas, as the Suns and GWS have shown it to be too expensive and crowd issues.
But based on the figures I cited for Brisbane hypothetically, adding another team could mean an oversaturation there or indeed if the Broncos lose a number of fans to the new team, and the new team does not get the numbers to attend that they expect.
The TV audiences have hardly grown in Sydney, with rationalising by removing the Bears, and having joint ventures.In fact crowds have not,Bears crowds have not jumped on board other clubs in any numbers, else it would have been reflected in crowds for the likes of the Sea Eagles,Roosters or Tigers.
Some of the joint venture crowds at times have been embarrassing.When Souths were flicked, where did their crowds go? Not to other Sydney clubs.
Rugby league in effect like a big gum tree, ripping away at the roots.Remembering of course local derbies which attract crowds.
Which brings me to the Storm. I am for their existence and introduction, but one wonders what the situation will be with a few years of poor performances, crowdwise and Tv wise.Their fans don't like certain time slots as do Sydney club fans, and this affects crowds enormously.
Mate I've been following rugby league since the late 70s,I've noticed trends, crowd fluctuations,SL wars, joint ventures etc and read and heard about the effects in addition.It's not a case of "no reason to think".When SL war came ,I know of Shark's fans who refused to have anything to do with Murdoch League, and some who were Dragons' fans who simple do not attend because of the loss of the singular St George identity.Look at their crowds now? I've been to the SCG when club games were packed.not now.The 200-300k viewers will be further unenthused, with even less Sydney club supporters because a club was removed.
There are plenty of entertainment choices and venues these days.You can't take fans or people for granted.
It would have been easier to rationalise in Sydney when there was SFA opposition from other codes.Now they are here grabbing more sponsorship, and potential attendees.The AFL have stated categorically ,there will be no more rationalisation in Melbourne.Upsetting passionate fan bases is not the way to go, in today's competitive environment.
That's why Greenburger is spending a hell of a lot of time ,trying to figure out the best way to go.Everyone knows it's a clusterf*ck to make any decision.
I still believe 18 teams with 9 games is the answer ,with a more national spread.You reduce the angst and you retain your supporter base.
