We continue our fascinating debates in Supporters Club as we try to get to the bottom of some of the biggest issues affecting supporters in the South African footballing community. Today we discuss why our stadiums are not intimidating fortresses. One supporter has a good suggestion as to how we can make teams more responsible for game attendance.
There are many reasons that have been cited for why our stadiums are empty. Among those are: tickets are too expensive, poor transport systems, no enjoyable vibe at the stadium, or the quality of football is not up to standard.
If we think about it, all these things can or should be controlled by management. However, it seems they have no incentive to fill their stands – why is this?
"I think the main reason is because most stadiums are owned by municipalities. If stadiums were owned by team owners, then they will need to get their supporters to come to the stadium." – Sanele pre-6
"They need better marketing from teams, especially in their home towns." – Baryt
"Bidvest Wits, for example, need to rebrand themselves as an inclusive Joburg club." – Jerseynumber8
So it seems it could all come down to marketing and branding... do clubs do enough to promote themselves to the public?
What role should a club play in making its games seem like a worthwhile event? Do you think clubs owning their own stadiums would make a difference in attendance numbers?
