Future of footy fan survey results: See what our readers said about the biggest issues facing the game
Football has been challenged like never before and every aspect of the game has felt the pressure. But as the return draws closer, how are fans feeling about the future? This is what they had to say.
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The AFL has been urged to trial a night Grand Final this year but has been warned against locking it in as permanent fixture before judging the results.
A footy fans survey conducted by the Herald Sun last week found 73 per cent of supporters were in favour of a night Grand Final in 2020 as a clash with Melbourne’s spring racing carnival looms.
The AFL has earmarked October 31 as a potential Grand Final date — the same day Flemington is set to host the Victoria Derby.
Daytime races followed by a night AFL Grand Final would make it a bumper day for sports fans.
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However, Collingwood premiership hero Mick McGuane has warned it could be a long day for those who kicked off the day with a barbecue and drinks at noon.
“I’d have a look at it but I’m not sold on it,” McGuane said of a night Grand Final.
“I’d just hope it wouldn’t get messy from an alcohol standpoint for some. Will a lot of people lose the traction of the game because they’re looking at it through beer goggles?
“I’ve always been one to be innovative and try things but it doesn’t have to be set in stone.
“You can weigh up the pros and cons post-event. But it would be great for television.
“The broadcasters would be nice and happy.”
Of survey respondents who were in favour of a night Grand Final this year, 56 per cent said they would only support the move in 2020.
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Only 17 per cent of fans wanted a permanent change to a night Grand Final, while 27 per cent of fans want the AFL season decider to remain as a daytime fixture.
AFL Fan’s Association president Gerry Eeman described the support for a night Grand Final this year as “surprising”.
“Every year our internal polling and the AFL’s polling and the Herald Sun’s polling has been very consistent about the desire to keep the Grand Final in the day,” Eeman said.
“But I guess exceptional circumstances mean that fans are willing to think a bit outside the box in terms of avoiding a clash with the races this year.”