Good topic.
I take it that you want more than the moronic 'I'd support my local team' - therefore I can't say Taree City.
I'll go by the way I approached EPL.
I avoided Man U like the plague. Too many wankers, too much dominance of the code. I'd hate to pick a side JUST because they are strong. Brisbane eliminated.
For the last reason, I'd probably look further than the current champions - wouldn't you feel an idiot becoming a fan at the END of a golden era, just like all those Souths fans that got hooked in 1970/1. Wests eliminated
For the same reason, a club living on past glories, even if they are still strong, would be a bit like joining the sheep for me. So I'm not a Liverpool fan. Saints eliminated.
They have to be fit morally as well. Canterbury eliminated.
I would hate to join a club that's universally despised like Chelsea. Manly eliminated.
They have to be strong, not there to make up the numbers like West Ham. Cronulla eliminated
They have to represent their community, and have an obvious pride in their heritage. Their players largely should know about the district they represent, and not just drink and shag there. Easts eliminated.
They should not have an utterly rediculous logo. Melbourne eliminated.
Nor a crap jersey. Cowboys eliminated
They should not be led by a neanderthal pisshead who lobs his dick out when representing his code. Penrith eliminated.
Then it comes down to minor details. Can I handle the jumper? Are they strong enough to give me some ammo in the barbecue and workplace league forums? Do I approach games with apprehension, or some degree or confidence? And is there a player whose talents I can marvel at, to help me slip into the mode of absorbing this sport?
With Newcastle, Canberra and NZ, the champions (Johns, Smith and Jones) are going, going and gone. So I'd guess I'd watch the 3 of them and see what happens. At a pick, possibly the Knights from the Raiders, although Newcastle's jersey designs keep getting worse as the years progress.
So I guess after all that, I'd say Newcastle, because that's who I support in the EPL!
Of course, this is all totally whimscal, because IF I had never seen League before, it wouldn't take long before Parramatta emerged as the obvious mob to support. ;-
