Re: Olympic Stadium : Sat May 29, 2010 3:56 pm
Unfortunately there's no precedent for a succesful top level RL franchise in an area where there's not already been a semi-pro or a very strong amateur presence previously. Generally it doesnt work, which is why the NRL have only been putting new franchises in areas with a strong RL presence. Auckland, Gold Coast, North Queensland. Dumping them in new areas never results in good crowds. Gateshead, Sheffield, Wales, London. To be honest its a small miracle and a testament to DH that we're still here when so many others have failed. Melbourne are the only exception and they've had a massive financial corporate backer and have bent the rules here and there!Catalans get good crowds because there are 1000s of treizistes in the area. We need to survive best we can for another 5 or 10 years and really push forward the amateur and semi-pro game in the south east. Moving to anywhere else in London will not increase crowds. I think we could get 4-5k crowds and a better long term stadium deal in a big town outside london. And also less competition for sponsors/local businesses. But if we are staying in London then The Stoop is the best bet. 20 mins from Waterloo, great stadium and we dont have to move again.