Putting the Game in the Spotlight

We believe that Football West is in the throes of revamping the State League Night Series for 2012, and if what we hear is true we applaud what they have put on the table.

There is to be one competition, which will see all the clubs from all three State League divisions competing in pools of four.

No doubt there will be many who moan about the fact that games will be held throughout the metropolitan area, such as Hartfield Park in Forestfield and Wotton Reserve home of Morley Windmills, but we applaud the ten venues chosen.They are taking the game to the people and this has to be beneficial to all.

The State League has been struggling for a number of years, because in essence it has no profile, because no one has the funds to promote the games every week. By taking the Night Series around the metropolitan area, the game has the chance to pull in fans that may not otherwise venture to the key grounds in the central city area. It is now up to each of the clubs hosting games to make these fans feel that they should come back, once the season starts.

The icing on the cake, if what we hear is true, is that the final will be played at NIB Stadium. This is undoubtedly the premier football surface in Perth and will give the two finalists the chance to showcase the game at its best at State League level. They will have a responsibility to all to play the best football possible.

The key to future success will be for football fans to pack the ground out and ensure that we send a message to potential sponsors that State League football is on the way back.