Re: United Playing at Norwood Oval!?!
Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2017 8:36 am
This . This. This.I'd agree that the disconnect between club admin and the fans is disastrous for the club. There's also no excuse for it. We have a small membership and a close relationship is not only attainable but highly desirable. A club our size cannot simply be a professional business. Sure, a few of us on here complain about the way past stars have been treated but I sincerely believe that the projected 'culture' of the club doesn't feel inclusive or respectful of those of us who pay the bills in many ways. Yet again this season has ended with enormous disrespect shown to fans and champions who are leaving. You simply can't do that. We're hardly a global brand beyond criticism.
The stadium is an absolute joy to watch football in and we should be glad to be in it. Sadly the franchises and bars are poorly run and the game-day atmosphere (despite a really good effort from the ground announcer) lacks any sort 'family' feeling. Putting a basic roof structure over the E, N &S ends would also make a massive difference to spectator comfort and noise levels in the ground. The acoustics of football make a HUGE difference.
AU has made the same mistake that many small schools do when they start to grow. Rather than cultivating their 'community' feel and roots they go 'corporate' in their communication and play to an elite. It never works and it alienates fans.
In essence there is nothing at all wrong with Hindmarsh or our deal with AEC. That's just business and it's one hell of a football stadium. What's amiss is the relationship with the fans in terms of our involvement and comfort.