If the Canterbury-Bankstown reaction serves as an indicator, then the rugby league has reason to feel confident about the A-League’s expansion into western Sydney.
However, the Greater Western Sydney Giants AFL club has adopted a more tactful approach, embracing the additional competition in an area that co-captain Luke Power believes already has much to offer.
The A-League’s venture westward has already sparked disagreement. In just seven months, the region will host three of Australia’s football codes.
With an $8 million boost from the Federal Government and support from Prime Minister Julia Gillard, the FFA announced football as the newest competitor in an already crowded marketplace.
Nonetheless, the Bulldogs remain skeptical about the potential threat to league’s prominence. Captain Michael Ennis expresses confidence that rugby league will continue to resonate with the people. Coach Des Hasler thinks the FFA should focus on organizing their administration first.
“It should be observed closely, but I believe rugby league is paramount in the hearts of those in western Sydney. It’s similar to what we see in Newcastle and Brisbane – for them, rugby league is everything. Financial power won’t alter their passion for the sport,” Ennis remarked.
Hasler was more direct, stating, “From my perspective, it appears they need to arrange their administration and how they manage the game before presenting a threat anywhere. That’s all I wish to convey!.”
The FFA aspires to achieve in western Sydney what the Giants have been attempting for over two years.
FFA chairman Ben Buckley clearly hopes that football will become well-rooted in the region to validate such confidence.
Power asserts that it is beneficial for the people of western Sydney to have access to a diverse range of sports. “I think it’s a positive development,” he noted.
The commencement of the 2012-2013 A-League is anticipated for early October, yet Buckley believes the quick turnaround will not be a significant hurdle.
Fox Sports football commentator Simon Hill has expressed some uncertainty about this.
“It’s the largest market in the nation. If they acquire a foothold, fantastic, we will all benefit, but that’s a considerable ‘if’,” he stated.
He highlighted the caliber of recent Socceroos emerging from the region, such as Brett Emerton, Tim Cahill, Harry Kewell, and Mark Schwarzer, as a strong argument for the move.
Fellow commentator Mark Bosnich remarked that the hard work is just beginning.
“A remarkable day for western Sydney. There is indeed a significant amount of work ahead, and there will always be skeptics.
“This area is the heartbeat of football in this country.”
by Buford Balony
