2015 Membership Thread - Can we get 35,000

[Eastdog]

With season 2014 all done and dusted I thought that ill start a thread for 2015 Membership. The new 2015 campaign started last week. Should be expecting something in the mail from the club over the next few weeks.

[Cyberdoggie]

Going to be tough given the way some fans have dropped off for various reasons.
A fading end to 2014 won't help either.

For us to reach 35k we would need to first show that we are addressing major weaknesses in draft/trading. Signing a big key forward signing like Carlisle, and to stitch up McCartin or Wright, along with a couple of players with some skill/pace would help.
That and a 3-0 start to 2015 would get some momentum happening.

[boydogs]

Going backwards W/L wise and having 3 players walk out, we will need a lot to go right from here on out to get to 35k

[Go_Dogs]

I think the positive finish in the VFL will go someway to offsetting the poor AFL finish.

35,000 would be a huge result, and perhaps not one we can achieve in 2015, but if we trade and draft well, and start the season strongly as indicated above, we may get close.

Hopefully supports are prepared to buy a membership and #bemorebulldog

[Maddog37]

Getting Zaine cheap is a good start.

[KT31]

Going backwards W/L wise and having 3 players walk out, we will need a lot to go right from here on out to get to 35k

The win / loss and the season finish are the biggie's, the three fringe players will be forgotten if we get a key signature.
With the reserves winning the flag and If we sign a quality name and address the forward/ back issue it will be a stretch but we could get close.

[G-Mo77]

Nope, don't think we can.

The VFL grand final win would have been great to carry some momentum into 2015 unfortunately ever since then we've been marred by rumors of discontent and had players walk out so it seems to have canceled each other out. A big name in the next week may help but realistically it's not going to be someone that will make a supporter on the bubble say wow. What it comes down to and always has been is W/L. If we have a poor are season followed by a poor start to the season we'll be lucky to get 30k.

The membership campaign has got to show light at the end of the tunnel. Nothing that says we're destined to be great in 2015 but something that will put a bum on a seat. Sell the hell out of guys like Bonts, Stringer and Macrae. Our coach doesn't want it and has done his best to downplay them all at some point. Fact is these guys give us something we haven't had in a long time, hope. That will sell memberships.

[F'scary]

I think the fact we maintained membership this year is very positive. If we can get expectations up through the trade and draft period and then win a few early, 35,000 is very achievable.

[mighty_west]

We need to deliver in the next 2 weeks from what JMac and co have been saying in regards to bringing in quality key forwards and being pro active, that and the draft upgrade to grab one of the highly rated developing key forwards, show the supporters hope even with those few player walkouts that we will have a better list next season to start rising along with that excitement of actually going in with something this club has been starving for, power forwards.

[bulldogtragic]

Only winning impacts our numbers historically. Can we win the first 6 games or so ? - is the same question.

[Cyberdoggie]

What kind of uproar would you expect from the mob if we get rid of Cooney?

The average WB fan don't cope well with change and trading out their favourites.
Individual over the club.

[Greystache]

What kind of uproar would you expect from the mob if we get rid of Cooney?

The average WB fan don't cope well with change and trading out their favourites.
Individual over the club.

The mob are going to complain regardless. If we give up a good player and a pick to get a gun, they'll complain. If we do nothing they'll complain. If we trade a nothing pick for a fringe type they'll complain. Basically unless we secure a star key forward for a Bigfooty style trade of 6 list cloggers they won't be happy.

If we start letting the the vocal mindless mob start influencing club decisions then we should pack it in now. That's what Richmond's been doing for 30 years, or at least until recently.

[bornadog]

The only way we will get to 35,000 is by winning games.

[craigsahibee]

Interested in the new Platinun Membership on offer. Involves luxury seating at Aisle 28 Level 2 (ironically where I was shafted from a few years ago - that's another story) and access to Private Lounge/Bar around Aisle 28. The seating is not reserved, just access to a reserved area. Still carries a Social Club Membership and access to GF tickets :p

[bornadog]

Interested in the new Platinun Membership on offer. Involves luxury seating at Aisle 28 Level 2 (ironically where I was shafted from a few years ago - that's another story) and access to Private Lounge/Bar around Aisle 28. The seating is not reserved, just access to a reserved area. Still carries a Social Club Membership and access to GF tickets :p

How much$$$$$

[craigsahibee]

$750 or $865 with the away game add-on

[azabob]

$750 or $865 with the away game add-on

They are also finalising an option to allow you to keep your home game reserved seat if you want.

[Greystache]

$750 or $865 with the away game add-on

Interesting- So $1500 for 2 people. For only another $440 you can get Top Dogs membership for 2 people.

[craigsahibee]

Interesting- So $1500 for 2 people. For only another $440 you can get Top Dogs membership for 2 people.

Yes, noticed that. Got some thinking to do.

[bornadog]

Yes, noticed that. Got some thinking to do.

I think I will stay put.

[Greystache]

Yes, noticed that. Got some thinking to do.

I've got a potential Essendon convert in the works. If I can get that over the line I think the club will have 2 new Top Dogs members :)

[craigsahibee]

I think I will stay put.

I'm leaning towards staying where I am also.

[LostDoggy]

How's that 35,000 target looking now...........

[G-Mo77]

How's that 35,000 target looking now...........

Maybe change the title to 25,000. We might get there.

[Maddog37]

Sad sack attitudes. It is time to dig in not rollover!!!!

[LostDoggy]

Sad sack attitudes. It is time to dig in not rollover!!!!

I agree with you Maddog, but the club owes it to all of us to offer an explanation as to what is going on.
Too many of us are in the dark.

[bulldogtragic]

No. I hope we didn't do all our new advertising with Griff, as that. Will cost us even more...

[AndrewP6]

How's that 35,000 target looking now...........

3,500?

[AndrewP6]

Last night I decided to upgrade to the silver reserve, H&A membership. Not sure now...

[Eastdog]

Last night I decided to upgrade to the silver reserve, H&A membership. Not sure now...

I'm currently a silver home reserve member and thinking to upgrade to a silver reserve home and away membership. Been very happy with my seat on Level 1. It is in my opinion a great place to watch the game.

[AndrewP6]

I'm currently a silver home reserve member and thinking to upgrade to a silver reserve home and away membership. Been very happy with my seat on Level 1. It is in my opinion a great place to watch the game.

No doubt, but I'm not sure I even want to go to the footy any more.

[Eastdog]

No doubt, but I'm not sure I even want to go to the footy any more.

I think we need to pick someone up to energise us but so far unfortunately it hasn't happened.

[bulldogtragic]

No. Unless a Boyd/Cameron is recruited and plastered everywhere. Again. No.

[G-Mo77]

No doubt, but I'm not sure I even want to go to the footy any more.

I was like that last year, completely deflated and felt like it was a chore to go. Next year it'll be even tougher.

[Max469]

Yesterday morning I had upgraded to premiership gold home and away from p. Gold home games.

Not a lot more $ to some people but it is too me.

Don't regret my decision.

As a club we have been through a lot worse. Not happy with what happened but having no club would be worse.

[KT31]

Re: Can we get 35,000 - we will be lucky to reach 20,000 with all that has happened.
No hope now but a big fish or a Boyd could help out a bit with numbers.

[Bulldog4life]

Yesterday morning I had upgraded to premiership gold home and away from p. Gold home games.

Not a lot more $ to some people but it is too me.

Don't regret my decision.

As a club we have been through a lot worse. Not happy with what happened but having no club would be worse.

Exactly Max. Who can forget those dark days. This is nothing like it.

[KT31]

Exactly Max. Who can forget those dark days. This is nothing like it.

Not to sure what is worse, in the so called Dark days we had a common enemy, now the enemy is ourselves.
There is something to be said about "united we stand and divided we fall".

[1eyedog]

Surely we can launch a massive membership push if we are successful in getting Boyd to the club. There would be massive hype around his signing if we can do it and maybe we'll see 35,000 members next year. Boyd would be the biggest trade into our football club EVER.

[Eastdog]

Will we ever get 50,000 members in the future. This would be huge for us and would open up so many more opportunities and possibly play more at the MCG. We have nearly 80,000 Facebook likes so surely its possible that we could get another 20,000 if we have great on field (premierships etc) and off field success (good administration etc).

[angelopetraglia]

Just got easier to sell memberships. Just got much easier. Memberships are sold on hope. We now have hope. We now have a story to sell. We now have something positive to say. :)

[ledge]

We just went a step forward in membership in one swoop :-)

[bulldogtragic]

Boyd's Army - Cheer Squad Memberships, will be sold out already.

[Bulldog Revolution]

Just got easier to sell memberships. Just got much easier. Memberships are sold on hope. We now have hope. We now have a story to sell. We now have something positive to say. :)

Correct

And we have a coaching hire to make, which is another exciting opportunity for the club

We've dared to be bold and our supporters will like it

[westdog54]

Correct

And we have a coaching hire to make, which is another exciting opportunity for the club

We've dared to be bold and our supporters will like it

I can see it now. New coach, flanked by Boyd, Crameri and the recently re-signed Macrae, Stringer and Bonti, with a two words hashtag: #signup

[LostDoggy]

Hopefully we get a Round 1 home game this year. Really build it up.

[Danny the snakeman]

Glad to see the "members" polo back and as a $30 add on with your membership is better value than the way over priced media polo's.

[KT31]

Glad to see the "members" polo back and as a $30 add on with your membership is better value than the way over priced media polo's.

Hopefully it is more fashionable than in previous years and not in the bogan style.

[Eastdog]

It's not a big issue or anything as I will most likely be renewing my membership for 2015 online but have any woofers received anything in the mail or an email regarding 2015 membership. I still haven't received anything yet.

[mighty_west]

It's not a big issue or anything as I will most likely be renewing my membership for 2015 online but have any woofers received anything in the mail or an email regarding 2015 membership. I still haven't received anything yet.

Recieved mine in my Brisbane mail box last week, really like the new $49 turbo add on which you recieve the polo, mug and scarf, will be adding a further two memberships this year.

[LostDoggy]

Four memberships here in Melbourne, two received the their renewal in the mail, two haven't.
There are more and different add ons if you log into your account on line as well, although the site is very "cheap and nasty".

[josie]

Hubby got his renewal reminder in post late last week.

I forgot I'd made mine an auto pay bulldog for life. Club told me this morning I'd hear something in next few weeks wrt confirmation for my membership.

[Eastdog]

I called the Doggies membership department today so its all sorted with that. They said I should get an email in the next few days and mail in 1-2 weeks. They were very helpful.

[KT31]

Rang today just to check about the auto payment and all ok, oldest Pup renewed his ( bit surprising as big Griff fan and he had to pay his own for the first time.)
Picked up the members polo for $30 as well.

[bornadog]

Rang today just to check about the auto payment and all ok, oldest Pup renewed his ( bit surprising as big Griff fan and he had to pay his own for the first time.)
Picked up the members polo for $30 as well.

Is it a bogan top or ok?

[G-Mo77]

Is it a bogan top or ok?

What do you mean a bogan top? It's a polo shirt. Navy blue with our new logo on it, pretty sure there would be a 2015 member sign on it as well somewhere.

[LostDoggy]

Girlfriend has signed up for the first time (on my credit card mind you!). Hearing that a lot of lost dogs will be back next year.

Think we can look forward to an improved draw this year with all the media coverage we have been attracting, which will help.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Could see a Barry Hall effect next year with Boyd in the forward line. Think a lot of the long lost fans will jump on board. Im expecting a bumper crowd Round 1 vs the Eagles at Etihad on Saturday night. I for one am pumped and cant wait!

[soupman]

Geez we have to reign in our expectations for next season from Boyd. He isn't going to have an instant impact like Hall did. I just hope the wider supporter base of the club realises that patience will be required.

[Greystache]

Geez we have to reign in our expectations for next season from Boyd. He isn't going to have an instant impact like Hall did. I just hope the wider supporter base of the club realises that patience will be required.

Agree and I'm a little concerned this point is getting missed. He'll be 19 next season, if he can play 15 games and kick 25-30 goals that will be a very good return.

He's also on minimum wage next season which the media hacks are already conveniently overlooking. I'm looking forward to hearing Garry Lyon at round 5 say "he's on over $1million this season and his returns just aren't good enough for a player on that kind of money. For me this deal has been a massive failure". :rolleyes:

[LostDoggy]

Some of our supporters aren't the easiest to educate though. A cursory glance on social media after a game or during trade period will confirm that. Many would already have Boyd locked in for 50+ next year.

It's the game that's for everyone to watch, but only some should comment.

[Ozza]

Agree and I'm a little concerned this point is getting missed. He'll be 19 next season, if he can play 15 games and kick 25-30 goals that will be a very good return.

He's also on minimum wage next season which the media hacks are already conveniently overlooking. I'm looking forward to hearing Garry Lyon at round 5 say "he's on over $1million this season and his returns just aren't good enough for a player on that kind of money. For me this deal has been a massive failure". :rolleyes:

Haha - this indeed.

After which Garry reverts to his favourite assessment of all key position players that aren't dominating/playing in the winning side of the day...."He needs to work harder and be more physical in the contest".

Kicks with the breeze ol' Garry.

[Eastdog]

Got the membership renewal email from the club late last week so all good there. I wonder how many members we have so far.

[w3design]

According to the membership website, our current total is 11,631.
That seems a lot more than the same time last year....

[KT31]

According to the membership website, our current total is 11,631.
That seems a lot more than the same time last year....

It's likely more members are now opting for the 'Bulldogs for Life' direct payment method instead of waiting until closer to first game, so the early figure may not be truly comparative to previous years.

[Eastdog]

13,874

[Eastdog]

15,195

[whythelongface]

That is in comparison to 14,153 at this time last year.

[Cyberdoggie]

From memory it was always around the 15k in November, this seems to be the base number for bulldog for life members.

I find it staggering that about half of our members decide year by year on a membership.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Or won't buy a membership because of some decision the club has made
From memory it was always around the 15k in November, this seems to be the base number for bulldog for life members.

I find it staggering that about half of our members decide year by year on a membership.

[Maddog37]

From memory it was always around the 15k in November, this seems to be the base number for bulldog for life members.

I find it staggering that about half of our members decide year by year on a membership.

Humans are creatures of habit. A lot have probably always done it that way.

[Eastdog]

You can now add another one to that telly as I just renewed mine tonight :)

[w3design]

15,869

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

15,869

To be able to compete into the future and with a debt of 10 million to service, our aim should be 50,000 plus. This can only be obtained by sustained success, which is going to be a tall order but not impossible. The selections of Beveridge and Murphy is a good start with some urgency needed in continuing to improve the playing list.

[1eyedog]

I think we'll nudge 35,000 next year. Tom Boyd has been a massive inclusion as has the rise of Bonts and Stringer. We may not make the 8 next year but we're going to be pretty exciting to watch at times.

[Eastdog]

Nice jump

16,443

[Eastdog]

17,531

[LostDoggy]

Half way !!!!!

[Danny the snakeman]

Glad to see the "members" polo back and as a $30 add on with your membership is better value than the way over priced media polo's.


Hopefully it is more fashionable than in previous years and not in the bogan style.

Received the membership pack today and very happy with the polo, not bogan at all.

PS.Hats great as well, so happy the white hats are long gone.

[KT31]

Received the membership pack today and very happy with the polo, not bogan at all.

Away for a few days, so hopefully at home when I get back.

[Eastdog]

You guys must of renewed really early on or maybe the interstaters might get them first.

[KT31]

You guys must of renewed really early on or maybe the interstaters might get them first.

I am a Bulldog for life so once you verify your details are correct your membership just rolls over each year.

[Eastdog]

I am a Bulldog for life so once you verify your details are correct your membership just rolls over each year.

Yep of course Bulldog for life members is automatic.

[Hotdog60]

I was told mine was being processed a week or two back so hopefully this week. :)

[1eyedog]

I got my yearbook today but no membership package.

[Remi Moses]

Got the membership a few days ago . Nice cap
Club has to get the merchandise issue sorted, as online and in the shop there's bugger all new material.
I know it's a bit of a problem with the new logo, but the lack of availability before Xmas is disappointing, and the clubs missed a beat there.
The new mag is impressive, but if they could only ex sponged page 16

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Yes page 16 is a bit awkward

[bulldogtragic]

It was nice to get a certificate for my Bulldogs Backyard contribution. I don't recall any acknowledgement in the past, but the letter and certificate was a nice touch. (No point starting a new thread for the topic.)

[Eastdog]

Got my Bulldog yearbook on Wednesday and membership pack on Thursday. Will we get 20,000 members by Christmas?

[Eastdog]

It was nice to get a certificate for my Bulldogs Backyard contribution. I don't recall any acknowledgement in the past, but the letter and certificate was a nice touch. (No point starting a new thread for the topic.)

Good stuff BT.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

I've just started work in a telemarketting job and we sell AFL memberships (Hawks, Blues and Bombers atm) and AFL club raffle tickets etc. I'm not used to this sort of stuff, first week, feel dirty but it's a great insight. In the new year we'll probably be doing the mighty Bulldogs so I'll be calling you guys to sell stuff and be selling memberships as well so look out 35,000, here we go.

[BulldogBelle]

I've just started work in a telemarketting job and we sell AFL memberships (Hawks, Blues and Bombers atm) and AFL club raffle tickets etc. I'm not used to this sort of stuff, first week, feel dirty but it's a great insight. In the new year we'll probably be doing the mighty Bulldogs so I'll be calling you guys to sell stuff and be selling memberships as well so look out 35,000, here we go.

Love your enthusiasm.

When we get to 35,000 l will buy you a beer or two!

[BornInDroopSt'54]

You're on!

[KT31]

Shirt is a little plain and a bit close to Norths colours, a little more red (even just the stitching) would have been better.
But happy overall and it certainly is not for the Bogan.:)

[Eastdog]

19,671

[bornadog]

Last Year


18,995

This Year same time - 20,018

[bulldogtragic]

Last Year



This Year same time - 20,018

5% rise isn't too bad. Anything is good.

[Remi Moses]

Pretty reasonable considering how rubbish we've been.
Stkilda have 26 odd thou mainly because of a massive PR campaign

[Eastdog]

21,666

[F'scary]

Last Year



21 January: This Year same time - 20,018

13 February:
21,666

That is +1,648 in 23 days. There are 50 days left to Round 1. On a straight line basis that would mean an additional 3,580 odd memberships for a total of 21,666+3,580=25,246. However, I would expect it to ramp up considerably. I wonder if there is enough info on this thread to see what happened last year - I'm going to check this out.

[bornadog]

13 February:

That is +1,648 in 23 days. There are 50 days left to Round 1. On a straight line basis that would mean an additional 3,580 odd memberships for a total of 21,666+3,580=25,246. However, I would expect it to ramp up considerably. I wonder if there is enough info on this thread to see what happened last year - I'm going to check this out.

You can do an advance search of the membership threads and find the same one for 2014 and pickup the numbers

Edit: Here you are : http://www.woof.net.au/forum/showthread.php?12516-2014-Membership-Tally&highlight=membership

Scroll through that and you will find last year this time we had 21540 - not much in it which is a worry.

[F'scary]

You can do an advance search of the membership threads and find the same one for 2014 and pickup the numbers

Just did this BAD and a very interesting read (firstly, thank you to Eastdog who posted the tallies regularly - good resource material indeed). Around Round 1 2014, membership was at about 26,500. It then keeps increasing steadily during the year! We got to around 31,000 BY THE END OF THE SEASON! It seems that once the season is underway, the interest picks up with quite a number of people and even though we had a very ordinary year. Lots of food for thought there, I had expected that, particularly with an ordinary performance for the year, the membership sales would have petered right out after the first home match.

[bornadog]

Just did this BAD and a very interesting read (firstly, thank you to Eastdog who posted the tallies regularly - good resource material indeed). Around Round 1 2014, membership was at about 26,500. It then keeps increasing steadily during the year! We got to around 31,000 BY THE END OF THE SEASON! It seems that once the season is underway, the interest picks up with quite a number of people and even though we had a very ordinary year. Lots of food for thought there, I had expected that, particularly with an ordinary performance for the year, the membership sales would have petered right out after the first home match.

For membership sales, its important we get a flying start to the season, then the numbers really roll in.

[F'scary]

For membership sales, its important we get a flying start to the season, then the numbers really roll in.

I think you are absolutely correct. Expectations seem to be a major factor and they are raised only by certain things. Good press in the couple of months before the season starts, a good NAB Cup turn out and early wins.

I think the amount of change at the club since Round 23 last year has created a very positive vibe but a lot of potential members have yet to be hooked. There are thousands out there watching and waiting to see if we can provide the feel good factor they are prepared to part with their hard-earned for...

[bornadog]

There are thousands out there watching and waiting to see if we can provide the feel good factor they are prepared to part with their hard-earned for...

And this is what the big issue is with our club. Membership should not be just about attending games, but rather being a part of club and supporting it no matter what.

[G-Mo77]

And this is what the big issue is with our club. Membership should not be just about attending games, but rather being a part of club and supporting it no matter what.

After what's happened in the past some supporters just don't get it. I understand financial constraints not everyone can afford it, there are a lot that can and choose to wait until we're winning before signing up. I don't know about anyone else one of the most exciting parts about football is seeing a rebuilding side flick that switch and become a good team. I'll never forget the excitement when we narrowly missed the finals after the dreaded Rhode era.

However the situation our club has been in over recent times we've plateaued in memberships. It'd be great for record numbers but the fact that we've got a solid base of committed supporters regardless of results and off field shenanigans that's a small positive IMO.

[Cyberdoggie]

The AFL website has put an update of current membership numbers for all clubs, last years numbers and this time last year totals.

It's a pretty sad story looking at all the other clubs bar the recent expansion ones and seeing our numbers.

The rate at which they are growing is crazy, clubs like Richmond and hawthorn are now overtaking Essendon at number 2 and Carlton really the only club that falling away.

Also interesting that we get around half our members after automatic rollover time, and significant amount around the start of the season compared to other clubs.

We really should be on par with North and the saints, this needs to turn around.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-02-15/the-membership-race

[LostDoggy]

Some of those slogans are appalling! Some must be a joke or wrong. (They have gatherthepack for us, so possible)

GEELONG
Slogan: We need you, be a member at home or far away

HAWTHORN
Slogan: Made from brown and gold

COLLINGWOOD
Slogan: Side by side we stick together: it’s more than a line in our song

CARLTON
Slogan: We are the Navy Blues. One club. One tribe. One love.

[Greystache]

Some of those slogans are appalling! Some must be a joke or wrong. (They have gatherthepack for us, so possible)

GEELONG
Slogan: We need you, be a member at home or far away

HAWTHORN
Slogan: Made from brown and gold

COLLINGWOOD
Slogan: Side by side we stick together: it’s more than a line in our song

CARLTON
Slogan: We are the Navy Blues. One club. One tribe. One love.

What about Norf?

#getREAL

Did they get Brad Scott to write that? They actually have a hashtag in their slogan WTF!!

[bornadog]

The AFL website has put an update of current membership numbers for all clubs, last years numbers and this time last year totals.

It's a pretty sad story looking at all the other clubs bar the recent expansion ones and seeing our numbers.

The rate at which they are growing is crazy, clubs like Richmond and hawthorn are now overtaking Essendon at number 2 and Carlton really the only club that falling away.

Also interesting that we get around half our members after automatic rollover time, and significant amount around the start of the season compared to other clubs.

We really should be on par with North and the saints, this needs to turn around.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-02-15/the-membership-race

We are woeful and continuing to fall behind. Based on the size of the Western Suburbs we should be at 50,0000 and growing

[Happy Days]

One Love is awesome or disgusting depending on your music taste. Still better than "Can you smell what the blues are cooking?"

[Go_Dogs]

They actually have a hashtag in their slogan WTF!!

Maybe I'm mistaken, but I thought we did too?

[chef]

Essendon's 'whatever it takes' in that season will always be the funniest.

[F'scary]

That AFL clubs' memberships article is very sobering indeed. We are just so off the pace it is not funny.

[boydogs]

Maybe I'm mistaken, but I thought we did too?

http://puu.sh/fZjmC/1dea7174ca.png

http://puu.sh/fZiWs/63217b1243.jpg

[jeemak]

Why would we be where North are at present?

They went deep into the finals and we lost our best player and coach!

We're actually up on where we were this time last year, the club should be given some credit for that.

[jeemak]

^Happily North got smashed BTW.

[bornadog]

Why would we be where North are at present?

They went deep into the finals and we lost our best player and coach!

We're actually up on where we were this time last year, the club should be given some credit for that.

YIPPEEE, 230 up :D

[Webby]

YIPPEEE, 230 up :D

Yep, and unlike North, we don't have 8,000 odd 2 game Hobart members tucked away in our figures... Although, come our Ballarat stint, we might have another 4 or 5 thousand 2 game members up our sleeve..

I think a better figure to capture would be membership income. I know my membership cost $800 odd and that equals 1 member. I just wonder how many Mickey Mouse memberships (ie. Dogs, cats etc) are counted in those big numbers that other clubs are posting.. I just like to think that we're not the types to sign up our pets!

[jeemak]

I'd like to know what your expectations might have been after our disastrous start to the post season BAD. I reckon if I said to you that three months after it we had a 1% increase in membership you'd have taken it.

Webby, I'm interested to know how membership numbers are now recorded. Going back two or three years it was noted that we were one club that presented true full game memberships on top of regional memberships within our total, while other clubs didn't do that, including packaged memberships aside from those mentioned.

[Webby]

Webby, I'm interested to know how membership numbers are now recorded. Going back two or three years it was noted that we were one club that presented true full game memberships on top of regional memberships within our total, while other clubs didn't do that, including packaged memberships aside from those mentioned.

Yeah, there's a lot of tail junk in those figures. Also, many clubs have followed the Collingwood lead of giving away 3 game memberships with sponsorship packages. There was a quote in an Age article I read (http://m.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/the-truth-about-cats-and-dogs-20100514-v4od.html) that only 36% of Essendon members were actual traditional 11 game members..!

I'm sure that we're now playing shenanigans, too, however the multiplier effect of the "junk tail" means that, as a smaller club, ours will be smaller. The two Adelaide clubs and Sht Kilda were counting one game members, FFS!

So, in that respect, I don't believe that our 30,000 members means that we have half the membership revenue of clubs at the 60,000 mark. Far from it.

However, having said all of that, I think it could be wise by the club to give away one or two game memberships at school visits across the western suburbs. There are a lot of unaffiliated migrant kids out there who could be signed up. They might not use the ticket, but one day when the club is contending, the kid is likely to jump on. The excuse being "well, you know (technically) I was actually a member of the Bulldogs back in primary school.."

So these inflated membership figures don't bring in much immediate revenue. From that angle, we shouldn't despair. However, the free memberships are a good way of promoting the club in the longer term. That's something we should perhaps be looking at - particularly as the club spreads further towards Ballarat.

[bornadog]

I'd like to know what your expectations might have been after our disastrous start to the post season BAD. I reckon if I said to you that three months after it we had a 1% increase in membership you'd have taken it.

It is about what I expected. My disappointment comes from being last on the Victorian membership total. Even a team like North, who don't really have much of a base to draw from (ala, the Western Suburbs) has 8000 more than us. Maybe they do have 8000 from two game members in Tassie (which I doubt).

We cannot continue like this as a club, with low membership, low attendance at games, something drastic must change in the next few years.

[1eyedog]

Yeah, there's a lot of tail junk in those figures. Also, many clubs have followed the Collingwood lead of giving away 3 game memberships with sponsorship packages. There was a quote in an Age article I read (http://m.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/the-truth-about-cats-and-dogs-20100514-v4od.html) that only 36% of Essendon members were actual traditional 11 game members..!

I'm sure that we're now playing shenanigans, too, however the multiplier effect of the "junk tail" means that, as a smaller club, ours will be smaller. The two Adelaide clubs and Sht Kilda were counting one game members, FFS!

So, in that respect, I don't believe that our 30,000 members means that we have half the membership revenue of clubs at the 60,000 mark. Far from it.

However, having said all of that, I think it could be wise by the club to give away one or two game memberships at school visits across the western suburbs. There are a lot of unaffiliated migrant kids out there who could be signed up. They might not use the ticket, but one day when the club is contending, the kid is likely to jump on. The excuse being "well, you know (technically) I was actually a member of the Bulldogs back in primary school.."

So these inflated membership figures don't bring in much immediate revenue. From that angle, we shouldn't despair. However, the free memberships are a good way of promoting the club in the longer term. That's something we should perhaps be looking at - particularly as the club spreads further towards Ballarat.

Totally agree. I'm not against counting 3 game memberships. I think big membership numbers puts a positive spin on how many people are behind club and may encourage many others on the cusp to sign up to. Added to this, it sends a message to the rest of the competition that we are not necessarily the Oliver Twist's of the football world and shouldn't be considered your second favourite team because you feel sorry for us. I would love to see 40,000+ members on the webpage.

[Webby]

Maybe they do have 8000 from two game members in Tassie (which I doubt).

We cannot continue like this as a club, with low membership, low attendance at games, something drastic must change in the next few years.

Three game memberships are counted in all figures. North are playing three games per year at Bellerive... Bellerive fits 20,000 people. If you lived in Hobart, you'd be a mug not to buy a 3 game NMFC membership - whether you're a North supporter or not!

Anyway, one day the AFL will stick a third team in Perth and yield to pressure to enter an "evener" club in Tassie. North will then be left with their dicks in their hands as every Tasmanian jumps onto the Tassie club.

We're on the right path in Ballarat. We're also finally getting Edgewater underway and we also posted a profit in a year where we performed poorly for the third successive year. We'll be okay!

[Eastdog]

Agree with the sentiments here about trying to grow our membership. I'm very happy to hear that we are coming back to the eastern suburbs next year for our fans in the east. Need to make sure we keep that up to spark more interest in the Dogs in the east.

What seems dissapointing also to me is that places such as Rebel sport don't stock too much of our merchandise as this also I believe is great way of getting us out there especially to the kids who see the stuff.

[Bulldog4life]

Let's see our membership explode and make all our memberships only for "3 games". Yes I will have 4 please. I get to go to 12 games now. Hooray! Be serious, the number of Memberships are not a true and fair indication. It should only be on dollars earned for the Club. I wonder how many Clubs sneakily put in there 1 or 2 game memberships to keep the fans happy.I personally take little notice of the number.

[bornadog]

Let's see our membership explode and make all our memberships only for "3 games". Yes I will have 4 please. I get to go to 12 games now. Hooray! Be serious, the number of Memberships are not a true and fair indication. It should only be on dollars earned for the Club. I wonder how many Clubs sneakily put in there 1 or 2 game memberships to keep the fans happy.I personally take little notice of the number.

Membership numbers were traditionally 11 home games. That should be the measuring stick.

Total up the 3 game or 2 game memberships and divide by 11 and see how many then.

[josie]

Peter Gordon in recent 3AW interview predicted 50k membership by 2018 and I'm assuming he means fair dinkum 11 game members. I think the Club have plans and the new CEO will be a very important cog. If we have an OK on field year, espec. at start of season when the boys are fresh .might sign up a few more

[Maddog37]

He also said Luke Beveridge would be one of the best coaches in the league over the next ten years. He hasn't even coached a game yet!

I feel for PG in the constant need to pump the club up in the media but statements like this are crazy. I would prefer he preface these type of comments with "we hope that" rather than stating it factually. I know I am being picky but outlandish statements have hurt many a president across the league.

[Eastdog]

Peter Gordon in recent 3AW interview predicted 50k membership by 2018 and I'm assuming he means fair dinkum 11 game members. I think the Club have plans and the new CEO will be a very important cog. If we have an OK on field year, espec. at start of season when the boys are fresh .might sign up a few more

It would be great if one day we got 50K. We would then be able to play more at the G than we do. We still could get 35K this year.

[Twodogs]

Peter Gordon in recent 3AW interview predicted 50k membership by 2018 and I'm assuming he means fair dinkum 11 game members. I think the Club have plans and the new CEO will be a very important cog. If we have an OK on field year, espec. at start of season when the boys are fresh .might sign up a few more


With the amount of people pouring into the inner western suburbs to live ATM El Presidente may not be far off.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Most of them are hipsters. Maybe they could get an ironic membership.

[Eastdog]

Most of them are hipsters. Maybe they could get an ironic membership.

Similar to what is happening in the inner north. New apartment complexes is the trend in the inner city areas today.

[Happy Days]

Most of them are hipsters. Maybe they could get an ironic membership.

Embrace the Broadsheet. Knock up a minimalist logo, change the club song to some ambient techno, and start serving magics at The Pound.

[jeemak]

Embrace the Broadsheet. Knock up a minimalist logo, change the club song to some ambient techno, and start serving magics at The Pound.

Only if it's played off vinyl.

50K genuine members would help a great deal. We'll need to put in some solid on-field runs on the board to get there.

[Webby]

If the club gets approval for a public swimming pool and gym to be installed at the Kennel, it could be a great way to package up membership options. As for the very visible influx of hipsters, they won't sign up, but their presence will rub off on the area as a whole and lift everything considerably (club included) - much as they do shit me to tears!

[bornadog]

If the club gets approval for a public swimming pool and gym to be installed at the Kennel, it could be a great way to package up membership options. As for the very visible influx of hipsters, they won't sign up, but their presence will rub off on the area as a whole and lift everything considerably (club included) - much as they do shit me to tears!

Is there some talk of a Pool?

[Webby]

There has been. Particularly with the Footscray pool on Buckley Street having been closed. Wait and see.

[Webby]

Is there some talk of a Pool?

http://m.heraldsun.com.au/leader/west/whitten-oval-upgrade-plans-accidently-put-online-include-public-swimming-pool-and-gym/story-fngnvmj7-1226857166468

[azabob]

What are posters thoughts on the "pay it forward campaign"?

Personally I think its a bit contrived, but having said that, campaigns etc have to start somewhere.

http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/video/2015-03-04/bob-pays-it-forward

[GVGjr]

I think I understand what the club is trying to do but while I can find two friends that have left their membership lapse (due to not being able to get to the games) and I'm happy to pay for them to join up this year I'd be certain they won't do the same for others.

If enough members can buy memberships for family or friends in the same predicament it will certainly add to our numbers this year and it might have some good will in coming seasons.

[bulldogtragic]

I used to give memberships away to family. They never joined so I gave up, but I hope it works for others. I like the Bulldogs backyard package myself for giving.

[F'scary]

I used to give memberships away to family. They never joined so I gave up, but I hope it works for others. I like the Bulldogs backyard package myself for giving.

I like the Bulldogs Backyard concept too. Good for the kids, good for the Club, good for participating supporters.

[Cyberdoggie]

I think I understand what the club is trying to do but while I can find two friends that have left their membership lapse (due to not being able to get to the games) and I'm happy to pay for them to join up this year I'd be certain they won't do the same for others.

If enough members can buy memberships for family or friends in the same predicament it will certainly add to our numbers this year and it might have some good will in coming seasons.

I get what they are trying to do, leaning on the social media style of 'you have been nominated for the challenge etc',
will it work? I don't think so, not unless you have to throw a bucket of something on your head and share it with everyone.
But then again I don't really get pokies or twitter, or iphones so I probably shouldn't talk.

[bornadog]

Can't see anything wrong with trying new ideas to build the membership up.

[mjp]

I used to give memberships away to family. They never joined so I gave up, but I hope it works for others. I like the Bulldogs backyard package myself for giving.

As someone who buys the backyard packages every year, I have to admit to thinking that the pay it forward idea was contrived and that the better/smarter thing to do would be to properly promote the backyard program.

[bulldogtragic]

As someone who buys the backyard packages every year, I have to admit to thinking that the pay it forward idea was contrived and that the better/smarter thing to do would be to properly promote the backyard program.

Absolutely. I believe the act of generosity to western region kids who can't afford to get to go to the footy is a more sustainable way of grooming a future generation to love our club. I would rather give my money away to people who can't afford to be a member rather than to people who don't want to pay for membership. Good on the club and all that, but you're dead on the money IMO.

[bornadog]

As someone who buys the backyard packages every year, I have to admit to thinking that the pay it forward idea was contrived and that the better/smarter thing to do would be to properly promote the backyard program.

No reason why both can't be pushed.

[bornadog]

We are falling behind.

Last year as at 14 March 2014:
​24,106

This year 24,006

[Doggy]

Got this text from a mate of mine today,

Boys Got a game in nab saturday. Yippeee.12 new memberships from smiths. You member yet? If not Roarke Call you next weekend in member drive. Lol.
Sent from my iPhone

[Greystache]

Got this text from a mate of mine today,

Boys Got a game in nab saturday. Yippeee.12 new memberships from smiths. You member yet? If not Roarke Call you next weekend in member drive. Lol.
Sent from my iPhone

That's fantastic.

[azabob]

That's fantastic.

Can you translate for me please.

[Eastdog]

We are falling behind.

Last year as at 14 March 2014:

This year 24,006

Yes it needs to pick up pace. I hope we can get close to 35K but its looking more difficult the more time goes. The dream would be to get 50K Bulldog members in the future and then be able to play a bit more at the MCG for experience when we play in finals series.

[GVGjr]

Can you translate for me please.

12 new members

[Webby]

We are falling behind.

Last year as at 14 March 2014:

This year 24,006

Yes, but 14 March last year was Round 1. 14 March this year is 3 weeks from Round 1.
So effectively, with 3 weeks to go, we're just 100 memberships behind where we were at the opening bounce of last year. I could easily call that a positive..

[Doggy]

Can you translate for me please.

The text was from Roarke Smiths dad. He was letting me know his son has got a game in our NAB challenge match against Melbourne. He also said that his family have all joined as members which is terrific as they were all Norf supporters

[bornadog]

Yes, but 14 March last year was Round 1. 14 March this year is 3 weeks from Round 1.
So effectively, with 3 weeks to go, we're just 100 memberships behind where we were at the opening bounce of last year. I could easily call that a positive..

Not quiet the season started 23 March last year.

[Eastdog]

The text was from Roarke Smiths dad. He was letting me know his son has got a game in our NAB challenge match against Melbourne. He also said that his family have all joined as members which is terrific as they were all Norf supporters

Great stuff!

[BulldogBelle]

The text was from Roarke Smiths dad. He was letting me know his son has got a game in our NAB challenge match against Melbourne. He also said that his family have all joined as members which is terrific as they were all Norf supporters

Thats is fantastic!

l have told my kids that if they play AFL and don't play for the dogs l won't support their team.:p

[Webby]

Not quiet the season started 23 March last year.

Well... Okay, 2014 split opening round, splitting hairs then. I'm sure we'll make up the 100 member difference in the coming 3 weeks. No need to start the doom and gloom just yet. That's my point.

[Remi Moses]

Got a mate from Work a membership yesterday . Just a 3 gamer, but hey every little bit helps.
Indian/ Malaysian who migrated to the west in the mid 90's

[Cyberdoggie]

Got a mate from Work a membership yesterday . Just a 3 gamer, but hey every little bit helps.
Indian/ Malaysian who migrated to the west in the mid 90's

Well done!

Let's hope he goes to rnd 1 and we teach those weagles a lesson to keep him coming back.

[bornadog]

Melbourne over 30,000, North close to 32,000, Saints close to 30,000, while we linger on at 24,395.

What is wrong with supporters.

Really have had a gut full of people that wait to see how we go before signing up. :mad::mad:

[F'scary]

Melbourne over 30,000, North close to 32,000, Saints close to 30,000, while we linger on at 24,395.

What is wrong with supporters.

Really have had a gut full of people that wait to see how we go before signing up. :mad::mad:

I had a casual conversation with the kids' school principal the other day. Asked him about WB and the club's presence at the school. He said they offered a training clinic under the banner of WB, so there were expectations that there would be some of the players there. But it turned out to be run VU students (not including Mitch Wallis), so a bit of a disappointment. Other than that, zero contact between the club and the local backyard school.

[chef]

Melbourne over 30,000, North close to 32,000, Saints close to 30,000, while we linger on at 24,395.

What is wrong with supporters.

Really have had a gut full of people that wait to see how we go before signing up. :mad::mad:

I guess some people have had enough, you just have to look on here there is a heap of prolific posters who now don't post anyone.

[F'scary]

I had a casual conversation with the kids' school principal the other day. Asked him about WB and the club's presence at the school. He said they offered a training clinic under the banner of WB, so there were expectations that there would be some of the players there. But it turned out to be run VU students (not including Mitch Wallis), so a bit of a disappointment. Other than that, zero contact between the club and the local backyard school.

my point being, maybe the club needs to reach out more. There is nice stuff about what they do on the website and I am not suggesting they don't make an effort but perhaps they are missing some obvious target groups and perhaps even targeting others where there are low returns.

[F'scary]

I'll go a bit further. They should be visiting my kids school several times a year. Thinking about it, with a playing list of about 40 and a number of recently retired players who are on retainers of one kind or another, the club's management must be missing a sheep in the top paddock not to be targeting the dozens and dozens of schools in the western suburbs. That's where you'll get your new members from.

[Eastdog]

Great Stuff:

Mark Stevens Twitter

Anonymous Dogs fan, lawyer in Singapore, has chipped in with 10 grand asking the club to buy memberships for local kids with it ..

[Eastdog]

my point being, maybe the club needs to reach out more. There is nice stuff about what they do on the website and I am not suggesting they don't make an effort but perhaps they are missing some obvious target groups and perhaps even targeting others where there are low returns.

I think while its great we try and target the kids to support us we need ultimately sustained on field success and then you'll hopefully get new support from the west and beyond the west. There are probably several
sole Dogs supporters in their families like me who support us and their families support other teams but if we don't have a good appeal ie: on field success then it will be struggle to get the next generation of kids on board.

[Happy Days]

Got this text from a mate of mine today,

Boys Got a game in nab saturday. Yippeee.12 new memberships from smiths. You member yet? If not Roarke Call you next weekend in member drive. Lol.
Sent from my iPhone
"Sent from my iPhone" makes this

[F'scary]

I think while its great we try and target the kids to support us we need ultimately sustained on field success and then you'll hopefully get new support from the west and beyond the west. There are probably several
sole Dogs supporters in their families like me who support us and their families support other teams but if we don't have a good appeal ie: on field success then it will be struggle to get the next generation of kids on board.

Easty, I think it is the kids who can make their parents members! That is not as crazy as it may sound, I've seen it over and over again where a parent's luke warm, lapsed or complete non-interest can be turned around by their kid going to school and getting right into the footy. Parents want to share things with their kids. If the kid is footy mad, the parent will follow.

[Webby]

Easty, I think it is the kids who can make their parents members! That is not as crazy as it may sound, I've seen it over and over again where a parent's luke warm, lapsed or complete non-interest can be turned around by their kid going to school and getting right into the footy. Parents want to share things with their kids. If the kid is footy mad, the parent will follow.

For unaligned parents this is very true. Unfortunately for us, 90% of Vic families are aligned since the 1920's.

Fortunately for us, the western suburbs are packed with unaligned migrant families whose kids are ready to be win over. We just need to get onfield success and hit the schools in the huge, growing zone we've pegged out.

[bulldogtragic]

For unaligned parents this is very true. Unfortunately for us, 90% of Vic families are aligned since the 1920's.

Fortunately for us, the western suburbs are packed with unaligned migrant families whose kids are ready to be win over. We just need to get onfield success and hit the schools in the huge, growing zone we've pegged out.

Which is why they need to keep improving the 'Bulldogs Backyard' membership and do it right. I think this should be a priority over year to year corny/contrived pushes.

[Bulldog4life]

The Footscray Bulldogs are advertising memberships for sale. Will these be added to our Western Bulldogs total and/or income? How many people will only buy these memberships? Interesting to see the totals of both eventually.

http://107.170.132.8/1741-2/?camefrom=EMCL_570119_25184691

[F'scary]

For unaligned parents this is very true. Unfortunately for us, 90% of Vic families are aligned since the 1920's.

Fortunately for us, the western suburbs are packed with unaligned migrant families whose kids are ready to be win over. We just need to get onfield success and hit the schools in the huge, growing zone we've pegged out.

Yep, and you get a snowball effect: if there are a significant amount of kids following WB at a school and WB players visit schools more frequently than once in a blue moon or never, other kids get on the bandwagon and their unaligned, weakly aligned or nominally aligned parents join in.

[Webby]

Beating Collingwood handsomely in the NAB Cup is worth a couple of thousand fence sitters signing up, I reckon. A good night, tonight.

[azabob]

Ok, so i think i just heard Dwyane Russell is now a paid up member....

[Webby]

Okay, if true, he's officially downgraded from "absolute wanker" to just "bit of a wanker"..!

[Maddog37]

Okay, if true, he's officially downgraded from "absolute wanker" to just "bit of a wanker"..!

A touch generous for mine. I would be going for a downgrade from super mega wanker to mega wanker.

[Eastdog]

25,383

Another 10,000 odd needed to reach over 35,000 members.

[F'scary]

25,383

Another 10,000 odd needed to reach over 35,000 members.

I think we added about 1,000 since our NAB Cup win over the 'Pies.

[Webby]

I believe we had 24,100 odd members at the commencement of the split opening round last year. This year, we have just shy of 26,000 members in the week leading up to Round 1.

Although not spectacular, I still think there's some progress there. With perhaps a bit of an untapped market there with Footscray VFL memberships (which I'm told they're counting) to come on stream in the next fortnight, there is a fair bit of hope that we'll trump last year.

The fact that the club is progressing through some lean onfield years bodes pretty all for us.

[Eastdog]

Philip Badge pays it forward
Lifelong member Philip Badge recounts some of his fondest Bulldog memories and discusses the Pay It Forward campaign. Phillip made the generous contribution of $10,000 towards the campaign, which will go towards providing students of a local school in the Club's heartland with amembership for 2015.

http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/video/2015-04-01/philip-badge-pays-it-forward

[bulldogtragic]

If this ain't enough for supporters to become members... Just join!

[GVGjr]

Well said BT. I made a few references on twitter that our fans need to sit with our members not on the fence. They have to join

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Yep. Whether or not we win too many this year, I think its fair to say we are going to provide a much more entertaining contest for fans to enjoy and our supporters should hopefully realise that we are on the verge of a rebirth, but we need all lapsed members to get on board

[Eastdog]

26,869

[bornadog]

26,869

Not much up on last year. PG says we will get to 35,000. Very slow uptake as usual.

[1eyedog]

That's a crap number for what we are providing.

[bornadog]

That's a crap number for what we are providing.

Hawks just cracked 70,000

[comrade]

3 premierships since 2008 and one hand on a 4th. You'd hope they have record numbers with that sort of sustained success.

Look out if we ever reach those heights.

[Hotdog60]

3 premierships since 2008 and one hand on a 4th. You'd hope they have record numbers with that sort of sustained success.

Look out if we ever reach those heights.

I'd heard that in '54 we had a bigger membership than the wobbles.

[F'scary]

Hawks just cracked 70,000

And if they dropped to bottom of the ladder next year, it would go down to around 10,000.

[Go_Dogs]

That's a crap number for what we are providing.

Yes, hopefully we can win this weekend and then put in a good show against some very strong teams the next few weeks.

The good media along with strong, exciting team performance should see us climb up to the 30,000 mark.

[bornadog]

And if they dropped to bottom of the ladder next year, it would go down to around 10,000.
So true. I was shocked when talking to a good friend the other day, a Hawks supporter. He goes to every game in Melbourne etc. he said if the Hawks go to development phase he won't be buying a membership or going to games. He said they have plenty of money and don't need it. He only buys Gold membership To get access to the GF.

[Prince Imperial]

27,800

A considerable jump.

[bornadog]

27,800

A considerable jump.

That is a big jump in the last few days.

[Greystache]

A lot of people have a tradition of signing up at the ground at our first home game. Hopefully we can get another jump if we can get some early wins

[westdog54]

27,800

A considerable jump.

I hate to be a sad sack, but to put it in context, Melbourne passed the 33000 Mark on the weekend.

[Ozza]

A win this weekend is realistically worth 1000-2000 fair weather supporter memberships.

[G-Mo77]

I hate to be a sad sack, but to put it in context, Melbourne passed the 33000 Mark on the weekend.

Sorry I'm one of those now (Country) I think they were ahead of us last year as well. How are the Saints numbers going this year?

[bornadog]

Sorry I'm one of those now (Country) I think they were ahead of us last year as well. How are the Saints numbers going this year?

Saints nearly 31k

[Ozza]

I heard that the Saints have the highest renewal rate either in Vic or in the league.

Also, at Etihad on Sunday - after the attendance was put up on the scoreboard (about 19,000), a separate figure went up to show how many saints members were at the game (about 9,500) which I thought was interesting.

I'd like to see how many dogs members (by %) were turning up week to week at home games.

[Mantis]

A lot of people have a tradition of signing up at the ground at our first home game. Hopefully we can get another jump if we can get some early wins

I wonder if we will get the same 'spike' as we did prior to the auto-renewal program was introduced.

I was a member of the 're-new at 1st home game crew', but now it just rolls over.

[chef]

And if they dropped to bottom of the ladder next year, it would go down to around 10,000.
Nah, don't think so.

[Greystache]

I wonder if we will get the same 'spike' as we did prior to the auto-renewal program was introduced.

I was a member of the 're-new at 1st home game crew', but now it just rolls over.

I was assuming this week's spike was from those who still sign up on the day. Smaller than it used to be because there'd be many like yourself who've changed to auto renewal but a spike none the less. Hopefully we can get a steady increase from here on.

[Greystache]

Nah, don't think so.

Definitely. No one drops off faster than those who jumped on during winning times. Hawthorn are the worst of all.

[chef]

Definitely. No one drops off faster than those who jumped on during winning times. Hawthorn are the worst of all.

Down to 10,000?

Can't see it myself. Hawthron would still have a pretty solid base even if they bottomed out now.

[Greystache]

Down to 10,000?

Can't see it myself. Hawthron would still have a pretty solid base even if they bottomed out now.

10,000 at a game for sure. They play to empty stands when they're losing.

They've got a huge amount of theater goers that want to see them win

[bornadog]

Down to 10,000?

Can't see it myself. Hawthron would still have a pretty solid base even if they bottomed out now.

He was exaggerating but it will be a big drop off.

[chef]

He was exaggerating but it will be a big drop off.

All teams will have a drop off when they bottom out, not sure we are a club that can bag out other teams support.

[bornadog]

slowly getting to 30k

28,205

[KT31]

A decent show against the Hawks could entice a few more to get on board.

[Remi Moses]

Down to 10,000?

Can't see it myself. Hawthron would still have a pretty solid base even if they bottomed out now.

Shockingly fair weathered . Their attendances in the mid 2000's period were deplorable

[Webby]

Just getting train back from comedy festival post Collingwood v 'Aints game....

If I ever see more than four Dogs fans on a train carriage, I feel all warm and fuzzy!... The carriage I'm on tonight has at least 20 Collingwood fans...

Shame they're so much bigger than us... Oh we'll, here's to the next 100 odd years!

[w3design]

As of 22-4-15: 29,687

[Webby]

Surely we'll crack 30k in the next 7 days. Only our second home game of the year coming up for both Footscray and the WB's. The first round AFL game being played during the Easter holiday weekend. We need to at least knock St Kilda off!

[bulldogtragic]

I'm sure the good employees of Slater & Gordon and Gordon Legal will be receiving memberships if we don't get to 30,000 by cut off. :)

[Cyberdoggie]

Surely we'll crack 30k in the next 7 days. Only our second home game of the year coming up for both Footscray and the WB's. The first round AFL game being played during the Easter holiday weekend. We need to at least knock St Kilda off!

The saints are on 31,5xx members on their website. We are actually close to someone this year.

[boydogs]

I'm sure the good employees of Slater & Gordon and Gordon Legal will be receiving memberships if we don't get to 30,000 by cut off. :)

Cutoff's end of June isn't it? I'm thinking 32-33k

[bulldogtragic]

Cutoff's end of June isn't it? I'm thinking 32-33k

Good question. It might be?

[1eyedog]

As of 22-4-15: 29,687

29,962 what an incredibly slow climb.

[bornadog]

29,962 what an incredibly slow climb.

surely 30k by Sunday

[Twodogs]

surely 30k by Sunday


If it isn't I am going to buy the 38 bloody memberships myself.

The Petraglia move!

[bornadog]

If it isn't I am going to buy the 38 bloody memberships myself.

The Petraglia move!

No Need to. 30,259 as of this morning.

[bulldogtragic]

No Need to. 30,259 as of this morning.

Is that the worst behind the expansion teams?

[bornadog]

Is that the worst behind the expansion teams?

Saints 31,553
North 37,771
Dees 33764

and

Brisbane 24,742, not sure about Swans

[1eyedog]

No Need to. 30,259 as of this morning.

Other than during our so-called flag tilt 2010 season this is our highest membership tally ever. I honestly thought we would stagnate on 29,xxx but to have 600+ members sign up over the past 2 days is a massive result and shows that supporters are buying into where we are headed. Here's to breaking the 2010 record with a win over the Crows on Sunday.

http://www.aflmembershipnumbers.com/western-bulldogs-membership-numbers.html

[Twodogs]

Saints 31,553
North 37,771
Dees 33764

and

Brisbane 24,742, not sure about Swans

Swans have 36358 according to this.


http://www.aflmembershipnumbers.com/index.html

[Greystache]

Swans have 36358 according to this.


http://www.aflmembershipnumbers.com/index.html

And you could only imagine how many of those are actually corporate give ways. I'm guessing probably half.

[Cyberdoggie]

Swans have 36358 according to this.


http://www.aflmembershipnumbers.com/index.html

I think that may be last years, says 2014 on the page.

[bornadog]

I think that may be last years, says 2014 on the page.

They are very cagey about the numbers.

[Twodogs]

And you could only imagine how many of those are actually corporate give ways. I'm guessing probably half.

I can remember standing outside the SCG in 1982 and a bloke walked out of the gates put a chair down and put at least fifty free passes and went to walk back in again. My dad grabbed him as he walked past us and said "why leave them there like that? Why not hand them out to people?" The bloke said "this way I can look people in the eye and say we didn't hand out any free passes this week."

I reckon half is generous. I know branch stacking when I see it.

[G-Mo77]

Is that the worst behind the expansion teams?

You're looking at it the wrong way. We're on track for record numbers this season. Forget what everyone else is doing and concentrate and what our numbers say. When we start rising up the ladder it will increase again.

35K seemed a tad optimistic but it's getable now.

[F'scary]

You're looking at it the wrong way. We're on track for record numbers this season. Forget what everyone else is doing and concentrate and what our numbers say. When we start rising up the ladder it will increase again.

35K seemed a tad optimistic but it's getable now.

Very much the case. On form to date we should easily be able to win 9 games for the year. If we can find 3 more and we are a show for the finals.

[boydogs]

Great to hit 30k in April given the events of last October

[Eastdog]

Our club record is 34,842 members which we got in 2010. Certainly can create a new club record this year.

[1eyedog]

Our club record is 34,842 members which we got in 2010. Certainly can create a new club record this year.

Are you sure?

http://www.aflmembershipnumbers.com/western-bulldogs-membership-numbers.html

[Eastdog]

Are you sure?

http://www.aflmembershipnumbers.com/western-bulldogs-membership-numbers.html

Got my figure from Wikipedia. Can't trust wiki but the best way to find out would be to call our membership department. I'm pretty sure my figure is right.

[1eyedog]

You may be right. I think they take those numbers prior to cut off period. We definitely had more than 26k last year. I remember the webs site going +30k.

[Eastdog]

You may be right. I think they take those numbers prior to cut off period. We definitely had more than 26k last year. I remember the webs site going +30k.

Yes we did get to over 30K.

[ratsmac]

Great news to get to 30,000. A win today could really help that figure jump again. There's always room for some bandwagoners!

[Webby]

Listed at 30,513 this morning.

Hopefully we'll crack 31,000 by Saturday... Actually, hopefully there's a spike up to 32,000 or so.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Honestly - if you still haven't bought a membership (financial reasons withstanding) - don't call yourself a Bulldogs supporter. You're not.

Even with the direct debit system in place, it's about the price of a coffee each week.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

We used to have a rule at work - no membership card no football discussion

[Eastdog]

Honestly - if you still haven't bought a membership (financial reasons withstanding) - don't call yourself a Bulldogs supporter. You're not.

Even with the direct debit system in place, it's about the price of a coffee each week.

Yes you need to have a genuine reason why if you can't buy one. If you have the funds and support the club there you really should buy one. You don't need to buy the most expensive but the fact that you took out a membership and put some money in is the main thing.

[always right]

The real test will be to see how many turn up to our next home game. What the hell does the team have to do to drag people in?

[Eastdog]

The real test will be to see how many turn up to our next home game. What the hell does the team have to do to drag people in?

Our next 2 home games

Round 6 WB V STK at Etihad 2:10pm Saturday afternoon
Round 7 WB V FRE at Etihad 1:10pm Sunday afternoon

[Webby]

The real test will be to see how many turn up to our next home game. What the hell does the team have to do to drag people in?

I understand all this, but we played an interstate team during a holiday weekend in round 1, then another interstate team during THE DREADED graveyard shift in our second home game.

I'm expecting a big, big crowd against the Aints in a couple of weeks. We've got our feel good factor back and I believe the Aints and ourselves have nominated each others' games as our make up fixture for our NZ & Cairns games respectively. (ie. Free entry for away members). So the crowd and the atmosphere should be huge against them. I'm tipping 30k Dogs fans and 15k Aints fans.

Kids love young teams. I'd implore the club to get out there. We've got the buzz on now and the feeling around the west is great! The crowds are coming!

[azabob]

Not sure I agree with your crowd prediction Webby but another thing in our favour is V the saints is on a Saturday at 2.10pm.