Fair points Tom, I can see where you are coming from on the metrics you mention to judge "state of the game". Two things I would say to that are 1. The state of the game could and should be far better if it was managed/governed much more effectively (see my and other's posts) - even on your metrics but certainly on a raft of others mentioned here regularly and in this thread specifically and 2. Like any multi-party effort, and community sport in particular, the journey is important, not just the end goals. I don't agree that the issue being discussed here is who get's credit, but I think you have touched on another important point which relates to the discussion. If AFL Sydney almost constantly, for many years, has significant relationship issue with and dissatisfaction among its local clubs surely it must take a look at itself and not only what it is doing but how it is doing it... Clubs no doubt have lots of faults and issues, but refer to points made in the thread, they are the infrastructure of local football and how the community experiences the game outside of the AFL Clubs in Sydney. Kind of important. A start would be AFL Sydney/NSW/ACT getting out of the pocket of the Swannies / lesser extent GWS, les time spent enjoying the reflected glory of the national organisation and teams and focus on local clubs, local football and its many and varied growth pathways and their needs.
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