CUTTERMAN wrote:I've struggled to get to all Sturt games this year due to going to the soccer and being away. Yesterday was the third game I've attended. I've vowed not to go to any AFL reserves games this year as it just leaves me with bitter feelings towards the comp. I've given the reserves teams a fair go but no longer.
One thing that really irks me is that one of the "benefits" pushed by the media for the inclusion of the reserves teams was the eradication of the byes (which I never really minded), yet 7 rounds in and Sturt have had 2 byes already, I struggle to take the comp seriously if backflips and lies like these are shoved down my throat.
I've been a Sturt member for many years and this is the first year I haven't felt compelled to. Do I feel guilty, a little, enough for me to join up? Possibly.
The comp has taken so many hits to the guts in recent years I think it's pretty well terminal now. The advent of the AFL imposed deliberate OOB rule is just another punch to the head, I don't think anyone likes it and I think the umpires struggle with it also.
I can't see how attendances are going to increase with the current situation. Something major has to change but no one in any position of power or influence has the balls to make a stand publicly. It's pretty sad and pathetic.
Good post mate. I've lost the routine of going every week now. With a few health challenges and a young family, but the constant byes and terrible scheduling have been the main contributor though. Unfortunately, I don't see how these things can be changed when the requirements of the AFL clubs are the main priority. With their need to not play the AFL clubs games against their AFL matches, and the mandatory length of break required by AFL players bargaining agreements, IMHO there is no solution to the fixturing whilst the AFL clubs remain.
Get the feeling that the SANFL diehards have fought the good fight for a lot longer than many predicted or expected, but more and more have conceded defeat now.