I just think we expect too much...
And I don't think the AFL have helped the situation by raising the profile and expectations of the game.
The development of a competition takes years.
The history of the Carlton men's club has little or no relevance to the Carlton Women's club other than they wear the same uniform.
The men's competition took over a hundred years to develop -the expansion, skills and professionalism we have today and the AFL have tried to cram it into less than ten years with the expectation that supporters will automatically embrace it because of club loyalties.
There's a strong feeling the talent pool is too thin in the AFL.
How can it possibly be sufficient in a women's competition, spread over the same number of teams.
As GIC mentions without the same semblance of full time professionalism it never will be sufficient.
I have no feeling of strong allegiance to the Women's side...that has to come from the development of a 'history'.
We often talk about the artificial creations of clubs like GWS and Gold Coast, seeming to be soulless entities.
These clubs have been revolving doors for player movements.
It's the same with many sides in the AFLW, particularly Carlton's.
If these clubs survive it will eventually come after years of stuggle as well as the occasional triumph.
Support will grow as the tradition and history grows.
I fear what might have happened in the early years is the initial enthusiasm for the concept has dissipated for many, as fans see their favourites moving into other jumpers.
Lower the expectations, consolidate what is there, and gradually increase the professional aspects...then the game will grow some history.
And I don't think the AFL have helped the situation by raising the profile and expectations of the game.
The development of a competition takes years.
The history of the Carlton men's club has little or no relevance to the Carlton Women's club other than they wear the same uniform.
The men's competition took over a hundred years to develop -the expansion, skills and professionalism we have today and the AFL have tried to cram it into less than ten years with the expectation that supporters will automatically embrace it because of club loyalties.
There's a strong feeling the talent pool is too thin in the AFL.
How can it possibly be sufficient in a women's competition, spread over the same number of teams.
As GIC mentions without the same semblance of full time professionalism it never will be sufficient.
I have no feeling of strong allegiance to the Women's side...that has to come from the development of a 'history'.
We often talk about the artificial creations of clubs like GWS and Gold Coast, seeming to be soulless entities.
These clubs have been revolving doors for player movements.
It's the same with many sides in the AFLW, particularly Carlton's.
If these clubs survive it will eventually come after years of stuggle as well as the occasional triumph.
Support will grow as the tradition and history grows.
I fear what might have happened in the early years is the initial enthusiasm for the concept has dissipated for many, as fans see their favourites moving into other jumpers.
Lower the expectations, consolidate what is there, and gradually increase the professional aspects...then the game will grow some history.