Since this is the first time out I figured to share my recent thoughts on working with the AFL and the TV Networks.
Over the past seven years I've obtained a whole new perspective on what it's like to try to work with major sporting and media organizations on a regular basis. Particularly for a small group like AFANA. Recently, two particular situations illustrated the on-going struggles we face representing footy fans.
In the first case there is a certain TV network that carries footy around these parts. We've spent an entire season begging them directly and thru the AFL for copies of their TV schedules every week -- just as we've received them every previous season and from every other network. (You'd think a TV network would WANT the audience to know when various programs are on but you'd be wrong... ). They have consistently refused to cooperate. We did manage, with some begging and groveling, to get a summary of the September schedules, in advance, from their management. The AFL has been of little help, mostly because they fear that pressuring this network would jeopardize coverage. That the AFL should be getting the schedule information themselves and be able to share it however they see fit seems to be lost on the folks at Telstra Dome.
On the other hand, AFANA has been long seeking a photographic journalist to supplement the web site with pictures and to work with our other reporters down in Australia. (Yes, we actually have officially credentialed reporters at many AFL matches now!) We found a suitable and professional photographer to do this (after much searching over the years) and despite initial reservations, the AFL Media office has worked with us and it looks like we'll have someone taking photos at the finals in Adelaide at a minimum. Big thanks to the AFL.
So you see that sometimes things work well and other times, we just get that nagging feeling we are knocking our heads against a brick wall...
More next time,
Rob
(chairman of AFANA and whatever else needs done)
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