The AFL will evaluate the success of the ‘curtain raiser’ come season’s end to determine if it is worth expanding in 2016.
With pre-game entertainment ranging from hovercrafts, fireworks and even a suggestion of an actual lion, the one constant fans have asked for is the return of the curtain raiser.
In a throwback to previous times when the reserves game preceded the seniors, certain games this season have seen the traditional VFL match played prior to the AFL fixture.
While there have been doubts and reservations surrounding ground maintenance, the curtain raiser has provided fans with the rare luxury of seeing the whole list of players in action in the one afternoon.
AFL spokesperson Patrick Keane said the success of the curtain raiser, along with the other ‘fan engagement’ methods, would be evaluated at the end of the season.
“The AFL will sit down with our clubs post-season and assess with them the impact that curtain raisers have had on the match-day response by fans, when they’ve been played,” Mr Keane said.
“A number of clubs wanted to play a small number of curtain raisers this year, to assess what impact it could have with fans and whether it added a ‘traditional’ feel to the game.”
This year’s AFL competition was marketed as being ‘for the fans’, seeing clubs attempt to bring the supporters back to the game.
Fan reaction has differed among each supporter group, but if there is one thing that footy fans want to see, it’s more footy.
The engagement methods are bringing the desired results. Mr Keane said match attendance figures in Victoria “are some 3-4 per cent ahead” of last year.
“There have been a number of changes from last year and these all need to be weighed up,” Mr Keane said.
“The AFL consciously moved to a more traditional fixture in 2015, removing Sunday night games and playing a greater number of ‘big’ games on Saturdays, as well as working with our venues to lower prices of key food and beverage items.
“All of these moves, along with the scheduling of some curtain raisers, were designed around increasing attendance numbers at games, as match-day attendance remains the key priority for the AFL.”
With powerhouse Victorian clubs Carlton and Essendon each holding curtain raisers at Etihad Stadium, this Saturday holds the marquee curtain raiser, while making history in the process.
Prior to the clash between traditional rivals Collingwood and Carlton, their VFL affiliates will play on the MCG, with the game to be broadcast on Channel 7 on delay.
It will be the first time a VFL reserve grade fixture will be televised from the MCG.
Northern Blues General Manager of Football Garry O’Sullivan said this weekend provides a great opportunity for his football club and the competition as a whole.
“It’s a double whammy really: to be playing on the MCG in the first place is a massive thrill for our boys and the Carlton guys,” Mr. O’Sullivan said.
“But to be on Channel 7 as well – for a VFL game to be at the MCG and televised on mainstream television – is a great result and is sensational for our brand.”
Marcus Wagner, Collingwood’s general manager of football and VFL president, echoed these sentiments, telling collingwoodfc.com.au it allows supporters “to see the whole club on display at one time at one ground”.
“It also gives our supporters a chance to experience the excitement of VFL football when they otherwise might not have the chance,” Mr Wagner said.
The VFL clash commences from the MCG at 10:16am on Saturday, with Channel 7 broadcasting the game on delay from midday.
PHOTO: The Northern Blues have a date at the MCG this Saturday. (Credit: Amy Paton/Northern Blues Football Club)
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