2020 WB Membership Thread - Target 50,000

[Eastdog]

Got my renewal email this week. I’ll be renewing very soon for season 2020. Go Dogs!

It would be fabulous to get 50,000 WB members.

[KT31]

Got my renewal email this week. I’ll be renewing very season for season 2020. Go Dogs!

It would be fabulous to get 50,000 WB members.

Well done Easty, think it's going to be a big year.

[Eastdog]

Well done Easty, think it's going to be a big year.

Yep hopefully we build on our 2019 particular our 2nd half form into 2020. Good to renew earlier to get the membership close to Christmas. Hopefully we get another good bumper sticker again to put on the car.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Beanie looks ok

[ledge]

I am in, bulldog / Footscray home membership, social club and got the shirt/ cap.

[Hotdog60]

I'm a Bulldog for life just had to pick the goodies.

[Eastdog]

Looking forward again in 2020 catching up with all the Bulldog people who sit in my area for another season.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Beanie looks ok

Hope it's bigger than last years. I couldn't put it on for more than 10 minutes. Was like a compression bandage.

[Eastdog]

https://m.westernbulldogs.com.au/video/2019-10-09/2020-memberships-on-sale-now

https://am.ticketmaster.com/bulldogs/?utm_source=WBcomau&utm_medium=navmenu&utm_campaign=mship#/

[Eastdog]

I have renewed for 2020. Now hoping the mighty Dogs have a great season 2020.

[1eyedog]

My mate just upgraded to the Social Club he was surprised there was actually an opportunity to do so. Thought they were all taken up.

[ledge]

My mate just upgraded to the Social Club he was surprised there was actually an opportunity to do so. Thought they were all taken up.

First year after premiership they were but dropped off which wasn’t surprising.

[Eastdog]

My mate just upgraded to the Social Club he was surprised there was actually an opportunity to do so. Thought they were all taken up.

I signed up to the social club for the start of the 2016 season so very lucky as well it happened to be the year we make a GF and win the flag. Been a social member since. I always enjoy a drink in their at half time at our home games.

[Scraggers]

Signed up already ... that makes 23 years of continuous membership. (Not bad seeing as I live more than 3,000kms away)
My son has been a member since he was born ... 10 years continuous membership.
We are both Social Club members as well.

I went the cap again (get a scarf with Social Club membership); this year I also bought the rugby jumper ... it looks good :)

[1eyedog]

Signed up already ... that makes 23 years of continuous membership. (Not bad seeing as I live more than 3,000kms away)
My son has been a member since he was born ... 10 years continuous membership.
We are both Social Club members as well.

I went the cap again (get a scarf with Social Club membership); this year I also bought the rugby jumper ... it looks good :)

I got the rugby jumper add on as well.

[strebla]

Well I made the phone call yesterday for my 4 sc memberships and ordered the polo as well . Halfway through the year I called to ask if I was going to get the 30 year membership badge but was told I had to wait 4 years for my 40 year anniversary, thought while I'm having a chat I would ask again and was told as such a long standing member I will be getting my 30 year pin too so I'm stoked!!!!

[KT31]

Well I made the phone call yesterday for my 4 sc memberships and ordered the polo as well . Halfway through the year I called to ask if I was going to get the 30 year membership badge but was told I had to wait 4 years for my 40 year anniversary, thought while I'm having a chat I would ask again and was told as such a long standing member I will be getting my 30 year pin too so I'm stoked!!!!

Looks like i will have to make another call.:D

[bornadog]

Belong to the West: Dogs’ ambitious membership goal (https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2019-11-01/dogs-ambitious-membership-goal)
The Western Bulldogs will aim to sign 50,000 members in 2020, for what would be the first time in the Club’s history.


Buoyed by an exciting finish to the 2019 AFL season and a return to the finals, a successful AFL trade period and AFLW Draft, and a strong commercial and football 2020 fixture, the Club is raising the bar in search of membership growth.

[Eastdog]

Yep operation Bulldog 50K. Ameet may have read the OP :)

[GVGjr]

Echoing what I mentioned in the OP of the thread. Yep operation Bulldog 50K

It's an ambitious aim for the club Easty and of course we all hope we get there.
I won't be disappointed with 47K plus though, that's still a big number for us

We had just under 48K in 2017 after the flag but dropped back by 9% in 2018 to 43,246 and this year we improved to 44,373
To pick up another 3,000 would be a great result and really give us a great platform to get to 50K

[Eastdog]

It's an ambitious aim for the club Easty and of course we all hope we get there.
I won't be disappointed with 47K plus though, that's still a big number for us

We had just under 48K in 2017 after the flag but dropped back by 9% in 2018 to 43,246 and this year we improved to 44,373
To pick up another 3,000 would be a great result and really give us a great platform to get to 50K

Yeah it might not happen in 2020 but if we get 47K that’s a great result and platform to build upon.

[Flamethrower]

If we do reach 50K members it would be a phenomenal effort. We have come a long way since the late 1980s, especially 1987 when we had only 3,452 members.

[Eastdog]

If we do reach 50K members it would be a phenomenal effort. We have come a long way since the late 1980s, especially 1987 when we had only 3,452 members.

Certainly have come a long long away. I think in the 90s one year our membership figure was not that much behind the Tigers membership figure.

[Twodogs]

We will get to 50 000 I reckon.

[strebla]

Looks like i will have to make another call.:D

Did you make the call KT31 ??? If so hope it went well .

[Eastdog]

Did you make the call KT31 ??? If so hope it went well .

I have still have another 20 years or so of being a consecutive member of the Doggies until I can get that :)

[strebla]

I have still have another 20 years or so of being a consecutive member of the Doggies until I can get that :)

You can do it easty a lot of pain along the way but 2016 was a wonderful cleansing

[Eastdog]

You can do it easty a lot of pain along the way but 2016 was a wonderful cleansing

2043 in my case for about 30 consecutive years so not that far away now :) only another 13 years for 20 consecutive years. I have been a Dogs man since the early 2000s.

[KT31]

Did you make the call KT31 ??? If so hope it went well .

Thanks for the advice Strebla,
Went well, club are sending me a 30 year plus members pack.:D
Also as my wife was the only one in the family not a Social Member I managed to upgrade her membership.

[Eastdog]

Thanks for the advice Strebla,
Went well, club are sending me a 30 year plus members pack.:D
Also as my wife was the only one in the family not a Social Member I managed to upgrade her membership.

Must be good now being back in Victoria KT31 for you to get to more Dogs games. Would be great to catch up one day KT31 in the Whitten Social club as I’m a member as well of the social club.

[strebla]

That's great KT congrats and welcome to the SC Mrs KT !!!

[KT31]

Must be good now being back in Victoria KT31 for you to get to more Dogs games. Would be great to catch up one day KT31 in the Whitten Social club as I’m a member as well of the social club.

It certainly is Eastdog, little colder in winter though.
I look forward to catching up at the Social club during the season.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Anyone have the Premiership Gold membership? I am thinking of changing my seating to level 2

[Eastdog]

Anyone have the Premiership Gold membership? I am thinking of changing my seating to level 2

I’m a Silver Bulldog member who sits on Level 1 but I believe bornadog is a gold Bulldog member who sits on Level 2.

[Eastdog]

It certainly is Eastdog, little colder in winter though.
I look forward to catching up at the Social club during the season.

I’m normally each Bulldog home game in the social club at half time.

[bornadog]

Anyone have the Premiership Gold membership? I am thinking of changing my seating to level 2

I am on level two, aisle 31. Craigisahebee sits in front of me, and hopefully he will renew again.

[Eastdog]

I am on level two, aisle 31. Craigisahebee sits in front of me, and hopefully he will renew again.

Level 1 Aisle 33 for me I think 1eyedog isnt' too far from me :)

[WesternBoy934]

Level 1 Aisle 36-7 for me for the past two seasons. On the wing and a very good view. Don't know much about level 2 other than that it apparently has much less people and a worse atmosphere :/

[GVGjr]

Level 1 Aisle 36-7 for me for the past two seasons. On the wing and a very good view. Don't know much about level 2 other than that it apparently has much less people and a worse atmosphere :/

Welcome aboard WB934, don't be a stranger :)

[bornadog]

Level 1 Aisle 36-7 for me for the past two seasons. On the wing and a very good view. Don't know much about level 2 other than that it apparently has much less people and a worse atmosphere :/

I think the atmosphere is great, and the best view, but I guess it depends which section.

[Eastdog]

Level 1 Aisle 36-7 for me for the past two seasons. On the wing and a very good view. Don't know much about level 2 other than that it apparently has much less people and a worse atmosphere :/

Welcome to Woof. That’s not far from me! Great seats and great atmosphere.

[Twodogs]

I am on level two, aisle 31. Craigisahebee sits in front of me, and hopefully he will renew again.

I must be directly below you, in the standing area.

[Eastdog]

I’m not far from you Twodogs except I sit in a reserve seat :) I’ll have to come and meet there at some point next season finally. Only met soupaman in person before from woof.

[Twodogs]

I’m not far from you Twodogs except I sit in a reserve seat :) I’ll have to come and meet there at some point next season finally. Only met soupaman in person before from woof.

You are more than welcome to come down and say hello Easty. Come down during an Essendon game and help us taunt the Essendon supporters sitting in their seats in front of us.


Win a premiership you useless pack of *!*!*!*!s. In fact just winning a final might make you more relevant

Oi, that's a premiership player you are abusing. How many premiership players do you blokes have apart from Jake Stringer?

[Eastdog]

You are more than welcome to come down and say hello Easty. Come down during an Essendon game and help us taunt the Essendon supporters sitting in their seats in front of us.


Win a premiership you useless pack of *!*!*!*!s. In fact just winning a final might make you more relevant

Oi, that's a premiership player you are abusing. How many premiership players do you blokes have apart from Jake Stringer?

Sounds good.

[strebla]

Is anyone going to the social club x-mas party??

[Vred]

Membership for next year done and dusted, lets go 50k!

[Eastdog]

Membership for next year done and dusted, lets go 50k!

It is great to have signed up now will get our membership in time for Christmas.

[Axe Man]

Is anyone going to the social club x-mas party??

Yep, me and the old man have registered. We go most years.

[Eastdog]

My WB membership pack has been lodged. According to the tracker expected to arrive early December.

Go Dogs!

[LostDoggy]

Mine too.

[LostDoggy]

Just found the Social Club Christmas party info hidden away in the Membership area, by going to FAQ. What a strange place to put it??? Have now registered for it.

[WesternBoy934]

Membership will arrive early December I've been told. Should try to get on of those member badges. Can get the 10 year one.
Been a member since '02' and my father even earlier but they don't keep the records, says i've only been one since '07.

EDIT: This thing here https://am.ticketmaster.com/bulldogs/red-white-true#/

[strebla]

Mine says 1983 so not sure why yours isn't right

[Eastdog]

Membership will arrive early December I've been told. Should try to get on of those member badges. Can get the 10 year one.
Been a member since '02' and my father even earlier but they don't keep the records, says i've only been one since '07.

EDIT: This thing here https://am.ticketmaster.com/bulldogs/red-white-true#/

You could call the membership department at the club and see what they can do.

[Axe Man]

Just found the Social Club Christmas party info hidden away in the Membership area, by going to FAQ. What a strange place to put it??? Have now registered for it.

You should have received an email.

[GVGjr]

I see we have 25K members now so we are half way there with our ambitious target. Apparently we are aiming for 30K by Xmas

It will be a magnificent achievement if we make it to 50K

[Eastdog]

I see we have 25K members now so we are half way there with our ambitious target. Apparently we are aiming for 30K by Xmas

It will be a magnificent achievement if we make it to 50K

Tracking along nicely. A strong start to the 2020 season would help that even more.

[choconmientay]

My membership pack arrived today. Have JJ on the card but the membership department can’t even get the simple thing right. It stated that I am member since 2019. Officially I am a bandwagoner :(

[LostDoggy]

Didn't receive an email about the Social Club "do" but contacted the club who told me I should have received one as well.

[KT31]

One of my Pups memberships has arrived, still waiting on the three others.
Surely be easier to send all at once.

[Daughter of the West]

Pack came yesterday, but my eldest pup was annoyed that his didn't arrive (even though his is a Christmas present, so he won't get it off his aunt and uncle until then). But then he was super excited to rip apart mine ;)

Petty, petty, petty grievance but...

ZOMG, the sticky stuff that adheres the membership card to the fancy pack thing was impossible to get off the card! Normally you can roll it round and get it off in one piece, but this stuff just wouldn't budge. Freakin' annoying!

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Inspired by you all I asked for my and Mr Not Bitter’s 30 year badges today and have been assured they are coming albeit 5 years late. New Level 2 seats aren’t available until after the December 6 cut off.

[Go_Dogs]

Membership will arrive early December I've been told. Should try to get on of those member badges. Can get the 10 year one.
Been a member since '02' and my father even earlier but they don't keep the records, says i've only been one since '07.

EDIT: This thing here https://am.ticketmaster.com/bulldogs/red-white-true#/

Do AFL members with club support also qualify?

[bornadog]

Do AFL members with club support also qualify?

Should do as you are registered as a member of not only the AFL, but also your club of choice.

[strebla]

My two sons both got there 15 year members pack this year so the records go that far. The only thing I can say is if yours is wrong call te club and get it updated properly.

[LostDoggy]

Found the same problem with the glue. ended up using a damp tissue to rub most of the sticky stuff off.

[LostDoggy]

Has your ticket to Social Club thingo arrived yet? Mine hasn't but email didn't arrive either so guess I'll have to contact club again!!!

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Like the dark cap, same colour as 2017.

[Axe Man]

Has your ticket to Social Club thingo arrived yet? Mine hasn't but email didn't arrive either so guess I'll have to contact club again!!!

I haven't received anything yet. Not sure why you couldn't print off your ticket when you registered?

[Axe Man]

Like the dark cap, same colour as 2017.

And what a year 2017 was, oh wait....

Personally I prefer the more royal blue versions, you know, in our actual colours. I don't want to look like a Carlton supporter.

[LostDoggy]

Have now got ticket, they were supposed to go out Friday but were delayed until today. Hope all requiring them have them now. Cheers!

[bornadog]

Have now got ticket, they were supposed to go out Friday but were delayed until today. Hope all requiring them have them now. Cheers!

I haven't received anything. It's on Wednesday isn't it?

[Axe Man]

Have now got ticket, they were supposed to go out Friday but were delayed until today. Hope all requiring them have them now. Cheers!

By email or snail mail? If they have posted them today I ain't getting it by Wednesday!


I haven't received anything. It's on Wednesday isn't it?

Yep Wednesday and I've got nothing?

[Axe Man]

My old man received his ticket by email today, I've still got nothing. Just called the club, pressed 4 for events and got an answering machine. Hope they sort this out quickly, very disappointing. I've have been attending this event for years without any issues.

[Scraggers]

Inspired by you all I asked for my and Mr Not Bitter’s 30 year badges today and have been assured they are coming albeit 5 years late. New Level 2 seats aren’t available until after the December 6 cut off.

I have been a member continuously since 1997 and my son since 2010. Do we actually have to ask the club for 20year and 10year badges or are they sent automatically?

[bornadog]

My old man received his ticket by email today, I've still got nothing. Just called the club, pressed 4 for events and got an answering machine. Hope they sort this out quickly, very disappointing. I've have been attending this event for years without any issues.

I got an email today as well.

[Eastdog]

Got my membership pack. All set for a big 2020 season now.

Carn the Dogs!

[HOSE B ROMERO]

The cap's ok but it's a bit box shaped at the front. Very dependent on head shape. My partner put it on and it came down to her nose. :eek:

[Axe Man]

I got an email today as well.

Oh FFS! They haven’t responded to my message or email. Not good enough.

[merantau]

I have been a member continuously since 1997 and my son since 2010. Do we actually have to ask the club for 20year and 10year badges or are they sent automatically?

I've been a continuous member since 1976. I rang membership and a bloke called "Mirror" said he'd "look into it." It was about a month ago so I guess he's still looking.

[Twodogs]

I've been a continuous member since 1976. I rang membership and a bloke called "Mirror" said he'd "look into it." It was about a month ago so I guess he's still looking.

There is a Slavic name called 'Mira' but that's a girl's name.


BTW I see what you did there...

[Axe Man]

I've been a continuous member since 1976. I rang membership and a bloke called "Mirror" said he'd "look into it." It was about a month ago so I guess he's still looking.

He needs to have a good hard look at himself.

[Hotdog60]

Yes, he's a reflection on the club.

[Eastdog]

All good in getting the membership card but it says that I have been a member since 2019 in actual fact I have been a member since 2013.

[Axe Man]

Oh FFS! They haven’t responded to my message or email. Not good enough.

They finally called me back this morning, of course during the 2 minutes I was away from my phone. They left a message; the woman proceeded to say: Hi this is suchandsuch from the Western Bulldogs returning your call... then started talking to someone else, then some random background noises, more conversations with other people. This went on for almost 2 minutes until she "answered" the call that she made, probably realised her mistake and promptly hung up. Appalling customer service.

I called back, was placed on hold for 15 minutes before finally speaking to someone who quickly sorted the issue out - somehow they sent the ticket to an old email address I haven't used in over 2 years?

Disappointing experience all around. Hopefully the event itself is better run.

[merantau]

He needs to have a good hard look at himself.

Thanks for the belly laugh.

[Scraggers]

All good in getting the membership card but it says that I have been a member since 2019 in actual fact I have been a member since 2013.

I rang the club Easty as mine was the same. They said it was a glitch in the system and the AFL had rectified it. They also said they would send me and my son new cards with the correct years of membership on there.

On another note, I asked about the consecutive years badges, as I have been a member for 24 years and my son ten years. They are sending out a 15 year pack for me and a 10 year pack for my son.

[KT31]

My Pups and wife have received their packs, nada for me.:(

[The Underdog]

I have been a member continuously since 1997 and my son since 2010. Do we actually have to ask the club for 20year and 10year badges or are they sent automatically?

Did you get them?
I've been a member since 2001. I'm no mathematician, but I reckon that makes 2020 my 20th year as a member.
I did however cancel my Social Club recently, but got a full Social Club pack sent out, so I guess that's a win.

[Axe Man]

Did you get them?
I've been a member since 2001. I'm no mathematician, but I reckon that makes 2020 my 20th year as a member.
I did however cancel my Social Club recently, but got a full Social Club pack sent out, so I guess that's a win.

You cancelled your social club the season we are going to be playing in the grand final?:eek:

[The Underdog]

You cancelled your social club the season we are going to be playing in the grand final?:eek:

It's cool, I've been to a Grand final once before :)

[Go_Dogs]

I received my membership yesterday. Lachie on the AFL members card...assume my Bulldogs pack will arrive over the next week or two...not expecting I'll get a pin but not too fussed. I've got another year before I'd qualify for 10 so will pick it up then.

[Scraggers]

Did you get them?
I've been a member since 2001. I'm no mathematician, but I reckon that makes 2020 my 20th year as a member.
I did however cancel my Social Club recently, but got a full Social Club pack sent out, so I guess that's a win.

I rang the club on Thursday. The membership department was happy to send out the 15 year for me and the 10 year for my son. I’ll get the 25 year next season.

[Eastdog]

I rang the club Easty as mine was the same. They said it was a glitch in the system and the AFL had rectified it. They also said they would send me and my son new cards with the correct years of membership on there.

Thanks for that Scraggers. So will they send new updated membership cards out with the changes to everyone with that glitch?

[Scraggers]

Thanks for that Scraggers. So will they send new updated membership cards out with the changes to everyone with that glitch?

Yes Easty ... but only if you ask. They said the computer glitch is fixed and will rectify next year. But if you ask, you can have a reprint this year.

[Eastdog]

Yes Easty ... but only if you ask. They said the computer glitch is fixed and will rectify next year. But if you ask, you can have a reprint this year.

Yeah I might give the club a call at some point. Not a big deal.

[Eastdog]

I called the WB membership department and they are aware that I have been a member since 2013 and have it on record so I’ll just retain the current card I have no big deal to change it. I keep all my membership cards from previous years.

[Prince Imperial]

Tally finally on the club's website today:

30,104

[Eastdog]

Tally finally on the club's website today:

30,104

Good to be apart of it for another year 2020. What was the figure like at this time last year I wonder?

[Prince Imperial]

Good to be apart of it for another year 2020. What was the figure like at this time last year I wonder?

A BF post from 7/12/18 stated that the Age reported we had 26,855.

Another BF post from 27/12/18 stated we had 29,129.

My guess is we are about 2 to 2.5k up on last year.

[Eastdog]

A BF post from 7/12/18 stated that the Age reported we had 26,855.

Another BF post from 27/12/18 stated we had 29,129.

My guess is we are about 2 to 2.5k up on last year.

In that case tracking along nicely.

[Eastdog]

https://i.postimg.cc/XX8rsB0z/5-CDE9241-AA73-4875-8-AFC-1316-B1-DD2-F97.jpg (https://postimg.cc/XX8rsB0z)

2020 WB member sticker proudly displayed on the back of my car.

[Eastdog]

https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/551272/bulldogs-christmas-new-years-office-closures

Bulldogs Christmas & New Years Office Closures

The Western Bulldogs administration offices are closed for the Christmas and New Years holiday period, reopening on Monday 13 January 2020.

The Western Bulldogs administration offices at Victoria University Whitten Oval are closed for the Christmas and New Years holiday period, reopening at 9:00am on Monday 13 January 2020.

Barkers Cafe, the Bulldogs Museum, the Club’s Membership Services Team (including call centre), and the Bulldogs Shop will also be closed for the holiday period until this time.

The Bulldogs Shop will be closed for the holiday period, reopening at 9:00am on Monday 6 January, 2020.

The Club wishes all members and fans a safe holiday season.


Further Membership Enquiries During The Holiday Period

For information regarding Western Bulldogs membership options, or to purchase online, please visit membership.westernbulldogs.com.au.

Membership frequently asked questions can be found here which is your best source of membership information during the office closure. Search your question to find an answer.

Alternatively you can email membership@westernbulldogs.com.au and a membership services team member will respond to your query after their return on Monday 13 January, 2020.



Shop at the Bulldogs Shop Online During The Holiday Period

Merchandise is available for purchase via the Bulldogs Shop online through this period, at shop.westernbulldogs.com.au.

For any queries regarding merchandise orders, please email shop@westernbulldogs.com.au and a member of the shop team will respond to your query after their return on Monday 6 January, 2020.

[Twodogs]

Add three to the membership tally. Number one son Harvey, my daughter Lucy Liberatore and I have all got our memberships for Christmas.

[Eastdog]

Add three to the membership tally. Number one son Harvey, my daughter Lucy Liberatore and I have all got our memberships for Christmas.

30,107 now if we go by our club website :) but more likely it is higher than that now when the update it next.

[Prince Imperial]

30,694

[The Bulldogs Bite]

30,694

How does this compare with other years?

Feels a bit low.

[Prince Imperial]

How does this compare with other years?

Feels a bit low.

Disappointing update I agree. The club was woeful at reporting the membership figure over the previous off season but forum posts indicate that we had 31k just before Xmas 2017.

[Axe Man]

Disappointing update I agree. The club was woeful at reporting the membership figure over the previous off season but forum posts indicate that we had 31k just before Xmas 2107.

By 2107 it is predicted we will have 3,102,091 members.

[ledge]

Well I’m a bulldog for life , supposed to get it before Xmas , still no sign of it.
I’m 11 years in a row now , if they can’t look after their long term members how the hell do they keep or recruit members with this type of service ?
I’m AFL, VFL and social club member ( well maybe not) nothing, nought, zero.
Taking my money every month though.

[Axe Man]

Well I’m a bulldog for life , supposed to get it before Xmas , still no sign of it.
I’m 11 years in a row now , if they can’t look after their long term members how the hell do they keep or recruit members with this type of service ?
I’m AFL, VFL and social club member ( well maybe not) nothing, nought, zero.
Taking my money every month though.

We got all our packs, I think most people on here got theirs, so I would say you are just unlucky. If they send out 30,000 odd packs there are bound to be a few go astray. Rather than complain on here have you contacted the club?

[ledge]

We got all our packs, I think most people on here got theirs, so I would say you are just unlucky. If they send out 30,000 odd packs there are bound to be a few go astray. Rather than complain on here have you contacted the club?

Of course.
Yes before Christmas and not before they just closed either.
Said It was suspended but couldn’t tell me why.
As I said payments are coming out.
No idea If I will get it when I will get it or anything.
So due to this actual problem I am posting on here on this thread as a reason people lose faith in membership.

[Twodogs]

Of course.
Yes before Christmas and not before they just closed either.
Said It was suspended but couldn’t tell me why.
As I said payments are coming out.
No idea If I will get it when I will get it or anything.
So due to this actual problem I am posting on here on this thread as a reason people lose faith in membership.

Yeah it's a bit rough that you are a bulldog for life, never had a problem before and at the first sign of a problem the club appears to have bailed on you. Especially when they close membership down over Xmas, what if the membership is part of a Xmas pressie?

Have they Scott Morrison running the show in membership or something?

[ledge]

Yeah it's a bit rough that you are a bulldog for life, never had a problem before and at the first sign of a problem the club appears to have bailed on you. Especially when they close membership down over Xmas, what if the membership is part of a Xmas pressie?

Have they Scott Morrison running the show in membership or something?

Well I have to wait until the 13th to chase it up, through some miracle it might turn up beforehand.
Fingers crossed

[Prince Imperial]

31,032

[AshMac]

Well I’m a bulldog for life , supposed to get it before Xmas , still no sign of it.
I’m 11 years in a row now , if they can’t look after their long term members how the hell do they keep or recruit members with this type of service ?
I’m AFL, VFL and social club member ( well maybe not) nothing, nought, zero.
Taking my money every month though.

My dad just got his 40 year membership pin this year. Last year when they did the lap of Etihad for the 20 year members he didn’t hear a peep.

[Prince Imperial]

32,104

Nice jump.

[Twodogs]

32,104

Nice jump.

Christmas I reckon. Me and the boy got our memberships for Chrissy.

[Eastdog]

Well I have to wait until the 13th to chase it up, through some miracle it might turn up beforehand.
Fingers crossed

How did you go ledge? Did you contact the club?

[ledge]

How did you go ledge? Did you contact the club?

Contacted them yesterday (again) it’s with Australia post apparently.

[GVGjr]

I'm really interested to see if we can crack the 50K mark but I won't be disappointed if we get 48K

It's good to be ambitious

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I'm really interested to see if we can crack the 50K mark but I won't be disappointed if we get 48K

It's good to be ambitious

It goes without saying that if we're to give 50k a shake we need to have a good start to the season, and no frustrating performances in the pre season games.

[Eastdog]

Contacted them yesterday (again) it’s with Australia post apparently.

Hopefully you’ll receive it soon ledge.

[strebla]

My dad just got his 40 year membership pin this year. Last year when they did the lap of Etihad for the 20 year members he didn’t hear a peep.

I am a 37 year member and I didn't hear from them either whilst it is disappointing hope you dad gets to do it this year.

[Axe Man]

My dad just got his 40 year membership pin this year. Last year when they did the lap of Etihad for the 20 year members he didn’t hear a peep.

Was the lap only for people that hit 20 years last season? I'm 23 years this year and I didn't know about it but there would be many 1000s of +20 year members so obviously we couldn't all do a lap.

[AshMac]

Was the lap only for people that hit 20 years last season? I'm 23 years this year and I didn't know about it but there would be many 1000s of +20 year members so obviously we couldn't all do a lap.

Perhaps actually - I hadn’t thought about that. In honesty - the crowd that did the lap wasn’t big and I remember thinking there’d be loads more.

To my knowledge that’s the only time they’ve done it - it should have been for every member 20 years or more!

Don’t get me wrong - watching them play every week is enough enjoyment for us both and you don’t support the dogs your whole life without developing a healthy dose of resilience

[Twodogs]

Perhaps actually - I hadn’t thought about that. In honesty - the crowd that did the lap wasn’t big and I remember thinking there’d be loads more.

To my knowledge that’s the only time they’ve done it - it should have been for every member 20 years or more!

Don’t get me wrong - watching them play every week is enough enjoyment for us both and you don’t support the dogs your whole life without developing a healthy dose of resilience

The first year they had Sons of the West all the graduates were supposed to do a lap at halftime at Marvel stadium but it was the week that Phil Walsh was murdered so they cancelled it.

It was a pain actually because my dad was really looking forward to it and then he died before they had another chance to organize another one. To be honest I didn't see what Walsh's death had to do with us and I'm annoyed that my dad missed out.

[Daughter of the West]

Perhaps actually - I hadn’t thought about that. In honesty - the crowd that did the lap wasn’t big and I remember thinking there’d be loads more.

To my knowledge that’s the only time they’ve done it - it should have been for every member 20 years or more!

Don’t get me wrong - watching them play every week is enough enjoyment for us both and you don’t support the dogs your whole life without developing a healthy dose of resilience

Are you talking about the Fremantle game? My understanding was that anyone over 10 years was eligible. I got an email inviting me to apply a couple of weeks before (for whatever stupid reason, it went to my junk mail first) and was then "selected" to do a lap. What black magic went into the selection, I'll never know.

[Eastdog]

Taken a bit more further out compared to the other image I posted in the membership forum.

https://i.postimg.cc/dk5ffBMg/1-BBB3-EB4-B59-D-4-D67-8-FFD-6-AA8-A43-C3582.jpg
(https://postimg.cc/dk5ffBMg)

[Prince Imperial]

33,259

[Prince Imperial]

33,714

[bornadog]

33,714

Very slow. Our supporters suck some times

[ledge]

Finally got mine on Thursday and another on Friday with an email saying one will arrive on the 13 of feb, 3 for the price of one , must say I like the members polo and the scarf.

[Eastdog]

Very slow. Our supporters suck some times

Another 16,286 members have to sign up for us to reach our 50K target.

[KT31]

Very slow. Our supporters suck some times

33,714 Don't BAD;)

[ledge]

Very slow. Our supporters suck some times

Well a family day usually brings a few in but I’m not sure we have one anymore, which is silly if so as it was usually pretty packed in recent years.

[Eastdog]

Well a family day usually brings a few in but I’m not sure we have one anymore, which is silly if so as it was usually pretty packed in recent years.

No actual family day this year. The open training sessions are in place of that.

[bornadog]

33,714 Don't BAD;)

Yeah, I know but very frustrating when you look at what other clubs achieve

[Eastdog]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Bulldogs#Match_records

Year Members Change Home and away finish Average home-and-away attendance Change
1984 6,491 - 7th 18,789 –
1985 8,030 Increase 1,539 2nd 21,624 Increase 2,835
1986 8,433 Increase 403 8th 22,036 Increase 412
1987 3,452 Decrease 4,981 7th 16,886 Decrease 5,150
1988 5,351 Increase 1,899 8th 15,910 Decrease 976
1989 5,168 Decrease 183 8th 22,036 Increase 6,126
1990 10,983 Increase 5,815 7th 22,290 Increase 254
1991 9,598 Decrease 1,385 10th 17,457 Decrease 4,833
1992 9,391 Decrease 207 2nd 20,909 Increase 3,452
1993 11,478 Increase 2,087 9th 21,085 Increase 176
1994 9,339 Decrease 2,139 5th 20,578 Decrease 507
1995 12,212 Increase 2,873 7th 21,989 Increase 1,411
1996 10,650 Decrease 1,562 15th 18,072 Decrease 3,917
1997 15,054 Increase 4,404 3rd 19,334 Increase 1,262
1998 20,064 Increase 5,010 2nd 23,832 Increase 4,498
1999 20,491 Increase 427 4th 24,023 Increase 191
2000 18,056 Decrease 2,435 7th 30,572 Increase 6,549
2001 19,085 Increase 1,029 10th 29,660 Decrease 912
2002 20,838 Increase 1,753 12th 25,518 Decrease 4,142
2003 21,260 Increase 422 16th 25,038 Decrease 480
2004 19,295 Decrease 1,965 14th 26,097 Increase 1,059
2005 21,975 Increase 2,680 9th 28,320 Increase 2,223
2006 26,042 Increase 4,067 8th 33,253 Increase 4,933
2007 28,725 Increase 2,683 13th 28,777 Decrease 4,476
2008 28,306 Decrease 419 3rd 30,275 Increase 1,498
2009 28,590 Increase 284 3rd 32,877 Increase 2,602
2010 34,842 Increase 6,252 4th 30,447 Decrease 2,430
2011 32,125 Decrease 2,717 10th 26,294 Decrease 4,153
2012 30,007 Decrease 2,118 15th 23,317 Decrease 2,977
2013 30,204 Increase 197 15th 22,132 Decrease 1,185
2014 31,725 Increase 1,521 14th 22,265 Increase 133
2015 35,991 Increase 4,266 6th 23,478 Increase 1,213
2016 39,459 Increase 3,468 7th 30,699 Increase 7,221
2017 47,653 Increase 8,194 10th 31,473 Increase 774
2018 43,246 Decrease 4,407 13th 25,372 Decrease 6,101
2019 44,373 Increase 1,127 7th 26,747 Increase 1,375

[bulldogtragic]

Yeah, I know but very frustrating when you look at what other clubs achieve

I'll sign up when we play finals again...
I'll sign up when we recruit a gun small forward...
I'll sign up when we trade the best tall forward actually traded...
I'll sign up when we trade the best tall defender actually traded...

Some may just need to find new reasons not to join. There's not to many reasons for voluntary refusal to join.

On the other hand, other clubs pull stunts. St Kilda were running ads on trade radio last year saying 'buy one membership, get one free'. Essendon for a while we're sending out memberships to members who chose not to re-join do they could say their base didn't turn on them. I heard Elon Musk say that 'comparison is the thief of joy'. So let's not compare.

That said, the club is 'ticking all the boxes' on field and off field. More fans should be rewarding the club with their membership for doing the things we've all wanted. If we can't push 50,000 year after year and have big crowds, the old chestnut about losing possible trade targets to 'big clubs' is less about the club and more about members voluntarily choosing not to join or turn up. Who then bemoan trade targets picking a 'big' (shit) club and how we miss them (Wingard, Martin etc.). Ironic and self fulfilling. Hopefully they're just slow in joining...

[AshMac]

I'll sign up when we play finals again...
I'll sign up when we recruit a gun small forward...
I'll sign up when we trade the best tall forward actually traded...
I'll sign up when we trade the best tall defender actually traded...

Some may just need to find new reasons not to join. There's not to many reasons for voluntary refusal to join.

On the other hand, other clubs pull stunts. St Kilda were running ads on trade radio last year saying 'buy one membership, get one free'. Essendon for a while we're sending out memberships to members who chose not to re-join do they could say their base didn't turn on them. I heard Elon Musk say that 'comparison is the thief of joy'. So let's not compare.

That said, the club is 'ticking all the boxes' on field and off field. More fans should be rewarding the club with their membership for doing the things we've all wanted. If we can't push 50,000 year after year and have big crowds, the old chestnut about losing possible trade targets to 'big clubs' is less about the club and more about members voluntarily choosing not to join or turn up. Who then bemoan trade targets picking a 'big' (shit) club and how we miss them (Wingard, Martin etc.). Ironic and self fulfilling. Hopefully they're just slow in joining...

Be interested to know where the club plans for most new members to come from - i.e. whether it is new to AFL fans or dormant dogs fans?

[bornadog]

Be interested to know where the club plans for most new members to come from - i.e. whether it is new to AFL fans or dormant dogs fans?

Make no mistake, they are out there

https://images.daznservices.com/di/library/sportal_com_au/f0/da/a-huge-turnout-for-this-years-parade_1lnvohjp5ugtw1u52s35xu4ijs.jpg?t=2032606303&quality=90


https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/easton-wood-and-robert-murphy-of-the-bulldogs-show-the-trophy-to-the-picture-id611910160?s=2048x2048

[GVGjr]

We need a bit of a boost to our membership levels to get get close to our ambitious target of 50K so I wonder if our game against North in the JLT might be able to provide a spark?

A good win showcasing some of our younger talent players could do wonders for our memberships

[Hotdog60]

Make no mistake, they are out there

https://images.daznservices.com/di/library/sportal_com_au/f0/da/a-huge-turnout-for-this-years-parade_1lnvohjp5ugtw1u52s35xu4ijs.jpg?t=2032606303&quality=90


https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/easton-wood-and-robert-murphy-of-the-bulldogs-show-the-trophy-to-the-picture-id611910160?s=2048x2048

Could our demographic be working class and Membership to a footy club is a luxury a lot cannot afford.
The support is out there but not the finance to back it up.

[ledge]

Could our demographic be working class and Membership to a footy club is a luxury a lot cannot afford.
The support is out there but not the finance to back it up.

If your talking full membership yeah maybe but It would be a very few wouldnt be able to afford a 3 game membership at the least I would think, one packet of smokes or 5 beers.
The club stuffing up training nights wouldn’t help though, takes a lot to get someone to be a member but only one small stuff up for people to find the excuse not to.

[Twodogs]

If your talking full membership yeah maybe but It would be a very few wouldnt be able to afford a 3 game membership at the least I would think, one packet of smokes or 5 beers.
The club stuffing up training nights wouldn’t help though, takes a lot to get someone to be a member but only one small stuff up for people to find the excuse not to.

15 Statistics That Should Change the Business World – But Haven’t

-Price is not the main reason for customer churn; it is actually due to the overall poor quality of customer service – Accenture global customer satisfaction report 2008.
-A customer is 4 times more likely to defect to a competitor if the problem is service related than price or product related – Bain & Company.
-The probability of selling to an existing customer is 60 – 70%. The probability of selling to a new prospect is 5-20% – Marketing Metrics.
-For every customer complaint there are 26 other unhappy customers who have remained silent –Lee Resource.
-A 2% increase in customer retention has the same effect as decreasing costs by 10% – Leading on the Edge of Chaos, Emmet Murphy & Mark Murphy.
-96% of unhappy customers don’t complain, however 91% of those will simply leave and never come back – 1st Financial Training services.
-A dissatisfied customer will tell between 9-15 people about their experience. Around 13% of dissatisfied customers tell more than 20 people. – White House Office of Consumer Affairs.
-Happy customers who get their issue resolved tell about 4-6 people about their experience. – White House Office of Consumer Affair.
-70% of buying experiences are based on how the customer feels they are being treated – McKinsey.
-55% of customers would pay extra to guarantee a better service – Defaqto research.

[ledge]

15 Statistics That Should Change the Business World – But Haven’t

-Price is not the main reason for customer churn; it is actually due to the overall poor quality of customer service – Accenture global customer satisfaction report 2008.
-A customer is 4 times more likely to defect to a competitor if the problem is service related than price or product related – Bain & Company.
-The probability of selling to an existing customer is 60 – 70%. The probability of selling to a new prospect is 5-20% – Marketing Metrics.
-For every customer complaint there are 26 other unhappy customers who have remained silent –Lee Resource.
-A 2% increase in customer retention has the same effect as decreasing costs by 10% – Leading on the Edge of Chaos, Emmet Murphy & Mark Murphy.
-96% of unhappy customers don’t complain, however 91% of those will simply leave and never come back – 1st Financial Training services.
-A dissatisfied customer will tell between 9-15 people about their experience. Around 13% of dissatisfied customers tell more than 20 people. – White House Office of Consumer Affairs.
-Happy customers who get their issue resolved tell about 4-6 people about their experience. – White House Office of Consumer Affair.
-70% of buying experiences are based on how the customer feels they are being treated – McKinsey.
-55% of customers would pay extra to guarantee a better service – Defaqto research.

Hit the nail on the head.

[Eastdog]

We need a bit of a boost to our membership levels to get get close to our ambitious target of 50K so I wonder if our game against North in the JLT might be able to provide a spark?

A good win showcasing some of our younger talent players could do wonders for our memberships

Good opportunity if we have good showings in the pre season games to increase the membership.

[Eastdog]

15 Statistics That Should Change the Business World – But Haven’t

-Price is not the main reason for customer churn; it is actually due to the overall poor quality of customer service – Accenture global customer satisfaction report 2008.
-A customer is 4 times more likely to defect to a competitor if the problem is service related than price or product related – Bain & Company.
-The probability of selling to an existing customer is 60 – 70%. The probability of selling to a new prospect is 5-20% – Marketing Metrics.
-For every customer complaint there are 26 other unhappy customers who have remained silent –Lee Resource.
-A 2% increase in customer retention has the same effect as decreasing costs by 10% – Leading on the Edge of Chaos, Emmet Murphy & Mark Murphy.
-96% of unhappy customers don’t complain, however 91% of those will simply leave and never come back – 1st Financial Training services.
-A dissatisfied customer will tell between 9-15 people about their experience. Around 13% of dissatisfied customers tell more than 20 people. – White House Office of Consumer Affairs.
-Happy customers who get their issue resolved tell about 4-6 people about their experience. – White House Office of Consumer Affair.
-70% of buying experiences are based on how the customer feels they are being treated – McKinsey.
-55% of customers would pay extra to guarantee a better service – Defaqto research.

Interesting read.

[Twodogs]

Hit the nail on the head.

Yeah. Retail theory is pretty interesting stuff.


Interesting read.

Music has a big effect on retail habits. I heard a long radio report about it the other day.

[mjp]

We need a bit of a boost to our membership levels to get get close to our ambitious target of 50K so I wonder if our game against North in the JLT might be able to provide a spark?

A good win showcasing some of our younger talent players could do wonders for our memberships
This is where I get frustrated.

The club should be talking about this NOW. I want to know what the pre season plans are but the footy dept are so cagey that we never know what is going on. Play a young side. Tell everyone that weightman and west are playing...do it weeks out. Set a tone...give us something. Bevo does these heartfelt member exclusive videos after losses...let's see that sort of passion used for good rather than for arse covering (sorry, that’s how they come across to me).

He’s a great coach. I love the club. The list is exciting...start building some excitement.

[GVGjr]

Fully agree MJP, I just wonder that we don't want to set expectations and then for some reasons not meet them

I'd rather us get on the front foot and set a foundation of what we are intending to use the JLT for

As you say, tell the members we are backing Smith and West from last year, we are fully intending to see what Weightman and Butler can offer us and that the likes of Lewy Young, Lachie Young, Lipinsk, Vandermeer and Greene will be playing as well. Throw in Bruce and talk English up as well

Many of our members will immediately start to build towards the game.

The only other thing I can think of is that we don't want to distract from our AFLW side

[bornadog]

Fully agree MJP, I just wonder that we don't want to set expectations and then for some reasons not meet them

I'd rather us get on the front foot and set a foundation of what we are intending to use the JLT for

As you say, tell the members we are backing Smith and West from last year, we are fully intending to see what Weightman and Butler can offer us and that the likes of Lewy Young, Lachie Young, Lipinsk, Vandermeer and Greene will be playing as well. Throw in Bruce and talk English up as well

Many of our members will immediately start to build towards the game.

The only other thing I can think of is that we don't want to distract from our AFLW side

Or talk about Bruce and Keath and the young captain, and how English is developing. We have an exciting team.

I hate how supporters want to wiat and see if it is worth getting a membership, give them something now to make them decide before the start of he season.

[Eastdog]

The challenge is retaining the members through the tough years as well as the good years. Easier said than done. We got 47K in 2017 after our premiership win - the challenge to retain the 47K member mark in years when we aren’t doing as well but from our 2019 season going into 2020 there should be lots to be excited about.

[Murphy'sLore]

15 Statistics That Should Change the Business World – But Haven’t

-Price is not the main reason for customer churn; it is actually due to the overall poor quality of customer service – Accenture global customer satisfaction report 2008.
-A customer is 4 times more likely to defect to a competitor if the problem is service related than price or product related – Bain & Company.
-The probability of selling to an existing customer is 60 – 70%. The probability of selling to a new prospect is 5-20% – Marketing Metrics.
-For every customer complaint there are 26 other unhappy customers who have remained silent –Lee Resource.
-A 2% increase in customer retention has the same effect as decreasing costs by 10% – Leading on the Edge of Chaos, Emmet Murphy & Mark Murphy.
-96% of unhappy customers don’t complain, however 91% of those will simply leave and never come back – 1st Financial Training services.
-A dissatisfied customer will tell between 9-15 people about their experience. Around 13% of dissatisfied customers tell more than 20 people. – White House Office of Consumer Affairs.
-Happy customers who get their issue resolved tell about 4-6 people about their experience. – White House Office of Consumer Affair.
-70% of buying experiences are based on how the customer feels they are being treated – McKinsey.
-55% of customers would pay extra to guarantee a better service – Defaqto research.

I always intuitively suspected this in the far off days when I worked in sales/service and I CANNOT understand why companies don't prioritise service more highly.

[AshMac]

retail theory is a very long stretch to sports. Professional sports are the only commodity in the world where you can passionately love or hate a product based solely on a jumper colour, very rarely it is related to service

In a town like melbourne - you either inherit your team, follow your mates or live in the area. Whether dormant or new supporters buy a membership is based on winning and location.

Yeh we’d have sold some memberships on the day, and yes this group is a far skew from the average fan (so service doesn’t affect us) but to truly move the needle we need to either advertise or win - Preferably both

[Twodogs]

I always intuitively suspected this in the far off days when I worked in sales/service and I CANNOT understand why companies don't prioritise service more highly.

They think it saves money and it probably does in the very short term. They can't see the forest for the trees though because if you followed that logic then closing the entire membership department down would be a huge saving. Imagine all the labor costs you would save?

Of course we wouldn't have any members but lets worry about that next year-I've just saved us a fortune.

[Eastdog]

Success usually = membership increases but is this always the case?
The aim is as I said good and bad years = need to retain as many members as we can - big challenge

[Twodogs]

Success usually = membership increases but is this always the case?
The aim is as I said good and bad years = need to retain as many members as we can - big challenge

North got a very minimal bump from their 96/98 flags. Or their 75/77 flags for that matter.

[Prince Imperial]

35,300

[Eastdog]

https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/565861/belong-to-the-west-in-2020

Belong to the West in 2020
Join us on the journey and Belong to the West by becoming a Western Bulldogs member in 2020

There’s something uniquely special about being a Western Bulldogs supporter.

It’s a sense of belonging, of passion and commitment, of immense pride in who we are and what we stand for.

It’s Marcus Bontempelli streaming out of the centre, or Aaron Naughton clunking a huge grab in the goal square. It’s Brooke Lochland snapping a left foot goal. It’s a life’s course altered by the impact of the Sons or Daughters of the West programs.

It’s a feeling, innate and sometimes indescribable, that leaves us satisfied, but always wanting more.

SHARE


01:00
MINS
Your Story. This Place.
'Red, White and Blue. These aren't just words to us, they're a way of life.' Join us on the journey and Belong to the West by becoming a Western Bulldogs member in 2020.
Published on 7 hrs


There’s a fire that burns in us, and it’s fuelled by the work we put in. Our intensity won’t waver. We won’t hold back.
Everyone remembers the barnstorming finish to the 2019 season and the surge into the finals. But nobody has forgotten how it ended, either.

The summer has been one of optimism and renewed hope, of a promising future in a young, talented and loyal playing list, led by an inspiring and effervescent coach.

Since the journey to the promised land those years ago, a rejuvenation has taken place. The new wave of young guns is here, and they’re hungry to help carry us back up the mountain.

But our greatness doesn’t just come from the 22. It comes from the thousands, the ones whose journey has led them here.
Ask any player, and they’ll tell how important it is - the unwavering passion of the Bulldog pack.

They can hear it over the fence at Marvel Stadium, at VU Whitten Oval in the icy cold breeze of a VFL season, and in the summer months when our women come out to play.

Now, we need your support more than ever. In 2020, we’re on a journey towards 50,000 members for the first time in our history.



We all have our own story, but no matter what side of the bridge you’re from, your story belongs here.

It doesn’t matter who you are, or what your background is. All are welcome at this club.

Join us on the journey and Belong to the West by becoming a Western Bulldogs member in 2020.

Visit our membership website to find out which package best suits you, or call 1300 GO DOGS (46 36 47).

[Prince Imperial]

36,159

Disappointing increase really given the 12 days since the last update and that their have been two AFW home games (albeit one badly rain affected) and a fine Marsh Marvel performance during this period.

[GVGjr]

36,159

Disappointing increase really given the 12 days since the last update and that their have been two AFW home games (albeit one badly rain affected) and a fine Marsh Marvel performance during this period.

It looks like it might be a struggle to get close to the 50K mark but a fast start in the home and away series might kick start it.
14K is a lot of ground to make up.

I wonder what might be stopping some people from joining up early?

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

It is disappointing. Saints hit 40k prior to their 1st pre-season fixture.

[bornadog]

I wonder what might be stopping some people from joining up early?

Finances? Or just our apathetic supporter base

[GVGjr]

Finances? Or just our apathetic supporter base

There has to be a few reasons why but I'm not sure what they might be

Did winning the flag provide a reason for some to back off with their commitment just a bit?

I've been reaching out contacting inactive WOOF members over the last month or so and a lot of them ironically dropped off contributing or went into almost semi retirement from about March 2017.

Everyone is apparently time poor now and most just want to be readers of the forum so maybe from a WB membership perspective it's easier for people to listen to the radio and watch the footy on the television or check Twitter rather than committing to a number of home and away games.
The tricky part is that other clubs aren't facing that challenge. AFL memberships are growing and the likes of the Saints have rallied their numbers even after some average performances.

Perplexing issue to say the least

I guess as long as we get good crowds attending games the membership numbers might not be the be all.

Perhaps a good old fashioned stoush with the AFL is in order? Nothing rallies the fans more than an us versus them campaign

[Prince Imperial]

A lot of us (and much of the media) are very optimistic about our immediate on field prospects so it's hard to fathom. The only things I can think of are:
- the Elimination Final belting brought back bad memories;
- our AFLW numbers may be down due to the loss of so many of our best players in the last two seasons (though our home crowd on the weekend was so much better than what any of the big clubs get);
- demographically we may disproportionately have a lot of elderly supporters who are passing away or not now able to attend games.

[Go_Dogs]

It would be great to see the $ generated not just raw numbers.

I'm an AFL member with club support - no idea how much of my $ go to the club.

[Prince Imperial]

It would be great to see the $ generated not just raw numbers.

I'm an AFL member with club support - no idea how much of my $ go to the club.

The club sets out the $ in its financial statements - last year it was $8m.

I recall reading a number of years ago the amount that the AFL gives to clubs and it was less than the price of a general admission membership. It was a key reason that I dropped my own AFL membership and invested in a reserved seat social club membership to ensure that my money went directly to the club.

[jeemak]

I haven't joined yet, that's because I'm a do things at the last minute sort of person.

We have had an amazing off-season, with new recruits who wanted to play for us coming at the right price, and a changing of the guard in terms of captaincy. But, I just haven't picked up on the hype that's out there amongst the media being reciprocated through the clubs messaging. Perhaps I've had my head up my backside, which can happen, and missed it though I don't think that's the case.

[Eastdog]

Hopefully we can still get 50K but looking a bit more difficult at this stage. A good start to the season would certainly help. I’m all signed up for 2020 Silver Reserve + EJ Whitten Social Club and also a member of the East West Bulldogs supporter group.

[GVGjr]

A lot of us (and much of the media) are very optimistic about our immediate on field prospects so it's hard to fathom. The only things I can think of are:
- the Elimination Final belting brought back bad memories;
- our AFLW numbers may be down due to the loss of so many of our best players in the last two seasons (though our home crowd on the weekend was so much better than what any of the big clubs get);
- demographically we may disproportionately have a lot of elderly supporters who are passing away or not now able to attend games.

You would hope that given our history our members are made from sterner stuff than just one poor game in the finals might alter.
If anything this has been spur for my expectations for 2020.

We have recruited well and addressed the gaps, perhaps we just haven't sold that story strongly enough

The one thing that has probably worked against us is the lack of actual engagement with the fans so far. Practice games and training sessions are a big part (well for me anyway) of following the club and so far it's been a struggle for the Melbourne based fans

Perhaps this weekend might be a spark

[GVGjr]

A couple of further points to the discussion.

For some reason yesterdays training session and practice game was poorly attended by (at a guess) around 400 members.
There were some activities for the children, the Barkers cafe was well stocked and the players made themselves available for photo opportunities plus for long term footy nerds like me I saw one of the best training sessions I have ever seen and a quality practice game which has whetted my appetite for the season ahead.
All-in-all I suspect this was well received by those who attended but there should have been a lot more members there when compared to previous years.

I caught up with a couple of WOOF members who were there and said hello to a few of the fans that I have gotten to know over the years. The WOOF members yesterday are rightly optimistic about our chances in 2020 but a few of the members I talked to were vastly more cautious and less than enthusiastic.
To be fair though they haven't been logging on here and getting expert analysis from the likes of MJP, Bulldogtragic, Bornadog, Mofra, Bulldog Joe, Go_Dogs, Axe Man, Twodogs and a host of others. Apologies to those I have missed but I can't name everyone.

One of the fans I have been seeing at the club training sessions over the years is a real character called Cath who was linked to the Bulldogs Taskforce supporter group who I don't think exist anymore but I might be wrong. She is a very friendly and approachable lady and tries to meet as many people at the training sessions as she can and yesterday was no exception.
Many of you who go to the occasional training session have probably met her.
Over the years Cath attended training each week or as many as she could get to and then send out a bit of a news letter to those privileged to be on her mailing list and she signed off on those emails with 'Doggie Cath' with a red, white and blue signature which always a nice touch.
I was one of the first to enter the ground yesterday and was delighted to see her again and have a quick talk.
Later I saw her chatting away to people and of course taking notes so I suspect she might still be sending the occasional email now.

It's fair to say she is an older lady and she's always been as passionate about the Dogs as anyone I have ever met. She mentioned to me that she is just a 3 game member now and she also said she's lost a bit of passion for going to the games over the last couple of years. Now she might have trouble finding someone to go to the games with her consistently and her age might be a factor as well etc but I must admit I felt more than a bit sorry to hear that she had lost some of the passion to attend the games.

When someone like Cath is lacking a bit of passion for the game it's a worrying sign for me. We do spend so much time and effort to attract new members I wonder if there is a way of reaching out and providing some support for our older members who played such a significant part in make the Footscray/Western Bulldogs the best damn sporting club in Australia?

When I mentioned to her that I thought we were in for a big year, Cath immediately sparked up. I said "I might be optimistic but everything I'm seeing is indicating a top four finish this year Cath" I sensed that is what she wanted to hear but more importantly needed to hear.

It struck me then but perhaps we haven't been strong enough in talking up our chances and it might be one of the reasons why our membership numbers are just a bit light on at the moment when compared to our ambitious 50K target.
Perhaps we need to go hard about our chances and be bold enough to even fall short of the mark. It's no good spruiking false hope for the sake of it, our members won't buy that anyway, but I do think there is a level of complacency out there with our membership base that needs a spark and I think we are a genuinely strong chance to be right in the mix come the end of the season.

Maybe the WOOF members could start talking up our chances to other Western Bulldog fans and create a bit more excitement around the WB community? We are getting close to the first home and away game of the year which is exciting for me but I'm not sensing it with our fans at the moment.

It's time to start talking it up. Who's with me?

[Twodogs]

A couple of further points to the discussion.

For some reason yesterdays training session and practice game was poorly attended by (at a guess) around 400 members.
There were some activities for the children, the Barkers cafe was well stocked and the players made themselves available for photo opportunities plus for long term footy nerds like me I saw one of the best training sessions I have ever seen and a quality practice game which has whetted my appetite for the season ahead.
All-in-all I suspect this was well received by those who attended but there should have been a lot more members there when compared to previous years.

I caught up with a couple of WOOF members who were there and said hello to a few of the fans that I have gotten to know over the years. The WOOF members yesterday are rightly optimistic about our chances in 2020 but a few of the members I talked to were vastly more cautious and less than enthusiastic.
To be fair though they haven't been logging on here and getting expert analysis from the likes of MJP, Bulldogtragic, Bornadog, Mofra, Bulldog Joe, Go_Dogs, Axe Man, Twodogs and a host of others. Apologies to those I have missed but I can't name everyone.

One of the fans I have been seeing at the club training sessions over the years is a real character called Cath who was linked to the Bulldogs Taskforce supporter group who I don't think exist anymore but I might be wrong. She is a very friendly and approachable lady and tries to meet as many people at the training sessions as she can and yesterday was no exception.
Many of you who go to the occasional training session have probably met her.
Over the years Cath attended training each week or as many as she could get to and then send out a bit of a news letter to those privileged to be on her mailing list and she signed off on those emails with 'Doggie Cath' with a red, white and blue signature which always a nice touch.
I was one of the first to enter the ground yesterday and was delighted to see her again and have a quick talk.
Later I saw her chatting away to people and of course taking notes so I suspect she might still be sending the occasional email now.

It's fair to say she is an older lady and she's always been as passionate about the Dogs as anyone I have ever met. She mentioned to me that she is just a 3 game member now and she also said she's lost a bit of passion for going to the games over the last couple of years. Now she might have trouble finding someone to go to the games with her consistently and her age might be a factor as well etc but I must admit I felt more than a bit sorry to hear that she had lost some of the passion to attend the games.

When someone like Cath is lacking a bit of passion for the game it's a worrying sign for me. We do spend so much time and effort to attract new members I wonder if there is a way of reaching out and providing some support for our older members who played such a significant part in make the Footscray/Western Bulldogs the best damn sporting club in Australia?

When I mentioned to her that I thought we were in for a big year, Cath immediately sparked up. I said "I might be optimistic but everything I'm seeing is indicating a top four finish this year Cath" I sensed that is what she wanted to hear but more importantly needed to hear.

It struck me then but perhaps we haven't been strong enough in talking up our chances and it might be one of the reasons why our membership numbers are just a bit light on at the moment when compared to our ambitious 50K target.
Perhaps we need to go hard about our chances and be bold enough to even fall short of the mark. It's no good spruiking false hope for the sake of it, our members won't buy that anyway, but I do think there is a level of complacency out there with our membership base that needs a spark and I think we are a genuinely strong chance to be right in the mix come the end of the season.

Maybe the WOOF members could start talking up our chances to other Western Bulldog fans and create a bit more excitement around the WB community? We are getting close to the first home and away game of the year which is exciting for me but I'm not sensing it with our fans at the moment.

It's time to start talking it up. Who's with me?


Me. I've been talking us up on Twitter.

[Remi Moses]

Great post G
Will say that Saturday morning kid sports take a bit of the crowd away though
Lot of parents then get the shopping out the way on a Saturday after that as well
I’m disappointed we haven’t gone ahead of Stkilda In membership to be honest
We seem to have a lot of “ see how they go” members sadly

[bornadog]

Great post G
Will say that Saturday morning kid sports take a bit of the crowd away though
Lot of parents then get the shopping out the way on a Saturday after that as well
I’m disappointed we haven’t gone ahead of Stkilda In membership to be honest
We seem to have a lot of “ see how they go” members sadly

Remi good point about the timing, Saturday early morning training is not ideal. I think the club would have been better off calling it family day and incorporating the practise match with various family day activities.

On GVGjr post - great post. I am really struggling after all these years to understand why our members are so reluctant to commit to the club until they see if we are going well or not.

I had a quick look at the other clubs that struggle to get members and we have North around 32k, Melbourne 34k and Saints are now over 41k. The Saints are an interesting one as I believe they have a huge supporter base and come out of the wood work when the club is winning and looks like they feel the Saints are on the verge of some success.

Back to GVGjr's post - Sad to see some older members not as passionate as they once were. maybe there needs to be a special membership category for the older supporters with some extra rewards on game day, or something and make them feel more part of the club.

Hopefully we do live up to our own hype on here, and then supporters start to buy memberships.

[comrade]

Saints fans are riding the wave of being big players in the trade period, along with getting rid of Richo. It's the 'new car smell' that's drawing them in.

Our secret squirrel approach to pre-season doesn't help build hype but once we start performing, the johnny come lately types will sign up.

[GVGjr]

Remi good point about the timing, Saturday early morning training is not ideal. I think the club would have been better off calling it family day and incorporating the practise match with various family day activities.

On GVGjr post - great post. I am really struggling after all these years to understand why our members are so reluctant to commit to the club until they see if we are going well or not.

I had a quick look at the other clubs that struggle to get members and we have North around 32k, Melbourne 34k and Saints are now over 41k. The Saints are an interesting one as I believe they have a huge supporter base and come out of the wood work when the club is winning and looks like they feel the Saints are on the verge of some success.

Back to GVGjr's post - Sad to see some older members not as passionate as they once were. maybe there needs to be a special membership category for the older supporters with some extra rewards on game day, or something and make them feel more part of the club.

Hopefully we do live up to our own hype on here, and then supporters start to buy memberships.

There are no good times for a practice game and training session's. Do it later in the day and then it's potentially weather conditions that will make it harder for the players and some fans.
Unfortunately the early starts gives us the best chance for those who have the time in their calendar to see the players in full swing like we did yesterday. It wasn't a half arsed effort and the fans saw the players at close to their best.

Regarding the older members and fans, upon reflection I wonder with some of the likely lower attended games through the year if there is an opportunity to close off a section and invite them to sit with other like minded and long term fans in an organised manner?
I sense they are probably over sitting alongside of mouthy opposition supporters and the chance to sit alongside of our supporters might appeal to them. Just a thought though

[GVGjr]

Saints fans are riding the wave of being big players in the trade period, along with getting rid of Richo. It's the 'new car smell' that's drawing them in.

Our secret squirrel approach to pre-season doesn't help build hype but once we start performing, the johnny come lately types will sign up.

It basically comes down to Hill and Howard vs Bruce and Keath so given our top eight finish last year and the ongoing positive message in the media at the moment but I agree with you that there is a potential that we haven't sold the story as well as we might have.

It's why I think we can all do our bit, perhaps on Twitter, and just talk up our chances a bit. Some might just need a bit of prompting to awake from their slumber.

[Bulldog4life]

A week or so back on SEN the Saints were advertising a two for one season ticket. Buy one get two.

[Bulldog4life]

A couple of further points to the discussion.

For some reason yesterdays training session and practice game was poorly attended by (at a guess) around 400 members.
There were some activities for the children, the Barkers cafe was well stocked and the players made themselves available for photo opportunities plus for long term footy nerds like me I saw one of the best training sessions I have ever seen and a quality practice game which has whetted my appetite for the season ahead.
All-in-all I suspect this was well received by those who attended but there should have been a lot more members there when compared to previous years.

I caught up with a couple of WOOF members who were there and said hello to a few of the fans that I have gotten to know over the years. The WOOF members yesterday are rightly optimistic about our chances in 2020 but a few of the members I talked to were vastly more cautious and less than enthusiastic.
To be fair though they haven't been logging on here and getting expert analysis from the likes of MJP, Bulldogtragic, Bornadog, Mofra, Bulldog Joe, Go_Dogs, Axe Man, Twodogs and a host of others. Apologies to those I have missed but I can't name everyone.

One of the fans I have been seeing at the club training sessions over the years is a real character called Cath who was linked to the Bulldogs Taskforce supporter group who I don't think exist anymore but I might be wrong. She is a very friendly and approachable lady and tries to meet as many people at the training sessions as she can and yesterday was no exception.
Many of you who go to the occasional training session have probably met her.
Over the years Cath attended training each week or as many as she could get to and then send out a bit of a news letter to those privileged to be on her mailing list and she signed off on those emails with 'Doggie Cath' with a red, white and blue signature which always a nice touch.
I was one of the first to enter the ground yesterday and was delighted to see her again and have a quick talk.
Later I saw her chatting away to people and of course taking notes so I suspect she might still be sending the occasional email now.

It's fair to say she is an older lady and she's always been as passionate about the Dogs as anyone I have ever met. She mentioned to me that she is just a 3 game member now and she also said she's lost a bit of passion for going to the games over the last couple of years. Now she might have trouble finding someone to go to the games with her consistently and her age might be a factor as well etc but I must admit I felt more than a bit sorry to hear that she had lost some of the passion to attend the games.

When someone like Cath is lacking a bit of passion for the game it's a worrying sign for me. We do spend so much time and effort to attract new members I wonder if there is a way of reaching out and providing some support for our older members who played such a significant part in make the Footscray/Western Bulldogs the best damn sporting club in Australia?

When I mentioned to her that I thought we were in for a big year, Cath immediately sparked up. I said "I might be optimistic but everything I'm seeing is indicating a top four finish this year Cath" I sensed that is what she wanted to hear but more importantly needed to hear.

It struck me then but perhaps we haven't been strong enough in talking up our chances and it might be one of the reasons why our membership numbers are just a bit light on at the moment when compared to our ambitious 50K target.
Perhaps we need to go hard about our chances and be bold enough to even fall short of the mark. It's no good spruiking false hope for the sake of it, our members won't buy that anyway, but I do think there is a level of complacency out there with our membership base that needs a spark and I think we are a genuinely strong chance to be right in the mix come the end of the season.

Maybe the WOOF members could start talking up our chances to other Western Bulldog fans and create a bit more excitement around the WB community? We are getting close to the first home and away game of the year which is exciting for me but I'm not sensing it with our fans at the moment.

It's time to start talking it up. Who's with me?

I have retweeted your tweet G. Hopefully more doggie supporters will do so too.

[GVGjr]

I have retweeted your tweet G. Hopefully more doggie supporters will do so too.

Thanks and appreciated BFL, I suspect though that 'retweeting' and 'liking' doesn't quite get the message out there strongly.
It needs to be a common theme from our members 'talking up' our chances for the season ahead.
Liking a tweet that says we will finish in the top 4 is not the same as also joining in and saying we will finish in the top 4 for so many people on Twitter. The comments tend to invite other comments which helps build momentum, the likes and retweets get a nod of the head for those that read it but it doesn't necessarily excite them to take it further and taking it further is what is needed.

If anyone genuinely wants to talk up our chances then if you have time I encourage you all to write something positive on Twitter or respond to the efforts of others. We won't quite get the momentum we want with some thumbs up acknowledgement. I don't want this to sound harsh for anyone and it's certainly not my intention but I think that is what really works

[Bulldog4life]

Thanks and appreciated BFL, I suspect though that 'retweeting' and 'liking' doesn't quite get the message out there strongly.
It needs to be a common theme from our members 'talking up' our chances for the season ahead.
Liking a tweet that says we will finish in the top 4 is not the same as also joining in and saying we will finish in the top 4 for so many people on Twitter. The comments tend to invite other comments which helps build momentum, the likes and retweets get a nod of the head for those that read it but it doesn't necessarily excite them to take it further and taking it further is what is needed.

If anyone genuinely wants to talk up our chances then if you have time I encourage you all to write something positive on Twitter or respond to the efforts of others. We won't quite get the momentum we want with some thumbs up acknowledgement. I don't want this to sound harsh for anyone and it's certainly not my intention but I think that is what really works

Good points. Agree.

[Bulldog4life]

Thanks and appreciated BFL, I suspect though that 'retweeting' and 'liking' doesn't quite get the message out there strongly.
It needs to be a common theme from our members 'talking up' our chances for the season ahead.
Liking a tweet that says we will finish in the top 4 is not the same as also joining in and saying we will finish in the top 4 for so many people on Twitter. The comments tend to invite other comments which helps build momentum, the likes and retweets get a nod of the head for those that read it but it doesn't necessarily excite them to take it further and taking it further is what is needed.

If anyone genuinely wants to talk up our chances then if you have time I encourage you all to write something positive on Twitter or respond to the efforts of others. We won't quite get the momentum we want with some thumbs up acknowledgement. I don't want this to sound harsh for anyone and it's certainly not my intention but I think that is what really works

Taken your advice. :)

[bulldogtragic]

A week or so back on SEN the Saints were advertising a two for one season ticket. Buy one get two.

They were doing that on Trade Radio last year too. Their 'real' number would not be nearly as good. I don't think we should compare ourselves to them.

G is right though. There's something of a lack of genuine buzz about our club or chances by those predisposed to occasionally buying memberships. I don't think any of us can change it in a meaningful way. The club had made big strides in member engagement and multi media productions. It might just be me, but my genuine belief that the 'Captain Bontempelli Years' will be the best we've ever had is based on analysis and conversing on WOOF. The clubs engagement, PR machine and media to me seems like we've missed an opportunity. I think the clubs PR Manager, Membership Manager & Digital Content folks are the ones that need to spruiking harder.

I do struggle to comprehend that with Bruce, Keath, Weightman and others, and all the myriad good news that unsigned members (or 'fans') aren't joining. Maybe being a 'prime time' club means you can sit at home without paying your dues to the club you 'love'?

[GVGjr]

They were doing that on Trade Radio last year too. Their 'real' number would not be nearly as good. I don't think we should compare ourselves to them.

G is right though. There's something of a lack of genuine buzz about our club or chances by those predisposed to occasionally buying memberships. I don't think any of us can change it in a meaningful way. The club had made big strides in member engagement and multi media productions. It might just be me, but my genuine belief that the 'Captain Bontempelli Years' will be the best we've ever had is based on analysis and conversing on WOOF. The clubs engagement, PR machine and media to me seems like we've missed an opportunity. I think the clubs PR Manager, Membership Manager & Digital Content folks are the ones that need to spruiking harder.

I do struggle to comprehend that with Bruce, Keath, Weightman and others, and all the myriad good news that unsigned members (or 'fans') aren't joining. Maybe being a 'prime time' club means you can sit at home without paying your dues to the club you 'love'?

BT great observations and thanks for sharing. Regarding the point I highlighted I think this is something that can be positively influenced by others because so many people genuinely hate missing out.

We are a prime time club as well especially if our fans look at the draw for 2020. We have plenty of Friday night games including Good Friday, we have plenty of Saturday night games as well. These are the things that we all thought were the only thing holding us back for many years. We wanted a stronger list so we addressed it at the end of the year by getting two quality bookends
We are good at making profits as well and we have a great Prez and coach. What more do people need?

While the 'Field of Dreams' moniker of 'If you build it they will come" hasn't quite panned out yet it might be if enough of us can drag some of the others along for the ride.

[Twodogs]

BT great observations and thanks for sharing. Regarding the point I highlighted I think this is something that can be positively influenced by others because so many people genuinely hate missing out.

We are a prime time club as well especially if our fans look at the draw for 2020. We have plenty of Friday night games including Good Friday, we have plenty of Saturday night games as well. These are the things that we all thought were the only thing holding us back for many years. We wanted a stronger list so we addressed it at the end of the year by getting two quality bookends
We are good at making profits as well and we have a great Prez and coach. What more do people need?

While the 'Field of Dreams' moniker of 'If you build it they will come" hasn't quite panned out yet it might be if enough of us can drag some of the others along for the ride.

A decent sizedish foot up the arse?

[Hotdog60]

The opening 3 games will have a big impact. If we carry on from last years final few games and get some handsome wins on board it will tip the scales.
We don't need a struggle win , we need a controlled ones.

[Go_Dogs]

I'm intruiged by this, because I'd say there have been more positive media articles about us this summer than many I can remember - we've had the new recruits, the draftees, the players who are about to break out. Additionally, we've got a new captain (who is coming off a player of the year award) and realistic expectations to be a top 4 side. There has been a huge amount written - albeit most of the articles are puff pieces not substantive.

I spoke to a colleague at work who went last Friday (paid for a ticket not realising she and her partner could've scanned in with their memberships) and she is as optimistic as most here. All opposition supporters I'm speaking to are talking us up, too.

A few big wins to start the year will make some difference, but I can't suggest the club hasn't done enough...

[bulldogtragic]

BT great observations and thanks for sharing. Regarding the point I highlighted I think this is something that can be positively influenced by others because so many people genuinely hate missing out.

We are a prime time club as well especially if our fans look at the draw for 2020. We have plenty of Friday night games including Good Friday, we have plenty of Saturday night games as well. These are the things that we all thought were the only thing holding us back for many years. We wanted a stronger list so we addressed it at the end of the year by getting two quality bookends
We are good at making profits as well and we have a great Prez and coach. What more do people need?

While the 'Field of Dreams' moniker of 'If you build it they will come" hasn't quite panned out yet it might be if enough of us can drag some of the others along for the ride.

Almost everything supporters have wanted the club has delivered. Prime Time big time and a block buster game back, re-signing all our guns, Bont as captain, Hemsworth helping bring some buzz, the best KPD & KPF actually traded last year, keeping pick 13 and addressing a need, more profits, Jamarra already on the hook with other priority access kids, Ballarat turning out well with other commercial successes. Etc. Etc. Etc. If people need to see wins, other than smashing North last week and our stars in the SOO then you're not looking for a reason to join, you're actually looking for a reason not to join. If it's not a financial matter which everyone can understand with the nature of the economy and rampant underemployment, then just say you don't want to be a part of the ride. You just want to watch the ride.

I let my social club go and in 2016 i had real fear I wouldn't be able to attend with the coroporate tickets sold out. By luck, most of us without a SC/coterie etc got in. I actually renewed social club for 2017 on the Monday after the prelim and I'm not giving it up. But then the rush for social club memberships came in and a lot of members couldn't get one. Then we had a poor 2017 and social club memberships were available again...

The reason I have told this story, is our members (including me for a while) seem to have things back to front. We want social club memberships AFTER the Grand Final (even paying a nominal fee to be on a waiting list), and are not signing up as members of SCs BEFORE the next Grand Final. It's illogical when you think about it for a bit. Wait until we start winning and then people on social media sulking they can't get SC added on...

It makes no sense to me the low number. On any level. The club could've performed better this year, per my last post. But that doesn't explain what's going on. And we are not Desperados like St Kilda giving away memberships for free. But it is, what it is and I'm not worried. I have my membership and social club, so I have finals tickets and a Grand Final ticket at our next shot. I honestly believe 'The Captain Bontempelli Years' will be the best most of us will ever see. So let us die hards enjoy the ride that ownership/membership gives you, while the other 200,000 club fans come out for the Grand Final Parade.

So let's enjoy the 2020 ride and hope the club can overcome its own fans indifference that impacts our bottom line. I can't wait for the year with the cherry on top being grabbing Jamarra, Raak, MacPherson & (if I have my way) Zac Williams. There's just never been a better time to be a member.

[comrade]

So let's enjoy the 2020 ride and hope the club can overcome its own fans indifference that impacts our bottom line. I can't wait for the year with the cherry on top being grabbing Jamarra, Raak, MacPherson & (if I have my way) Zac Williams. There's just never been a better time to be a member.

Yep, it really is a matter of 'build it and they will come' with our supporter group. If things go the way I hope the do, the bandwagon will be bursting by year end.

[Axe Man]

I had a quick look at the other clubs that struggle to get members and we have North around 32k, Melbourne 34k and Saints are now over 41k. The Saints are an interesting one as I believe they have a huge supporter base and come out of the wood work when the club is winning and looks like they feel the Saints are on the verge of some success.

I don't agree that the Saints have a huge supporter base. I know these figures aren't 100% accurate (not sure how 72,000 people just stop supporting us in a year?) but they probably give an indication of supporter levels:

https://i.postimg.cc/j25NFHx8/supporters.png (https://postimages.org/)
Link (http://www.roymorgan.com/findings/8088-afl-supporter-ladder-june-2019-201908160718)

Our supporter numbers are fairly similar to St Kilda's and higher than Melbourne and North.

Our conversion rate of supporters to members of 15.9% isn't bad but is well behind Richmond, Melbourne, Hawthorn and North.

[bornadog]

I don't agree that the Saints have a huge supporter base. I know these figures aren't 100% accurate (not sure how 72,000 people just stop supporting us in a year?) but they probably give an indication of supporter levels:

https://i.postimg.cc/j25NFHx8/supporters.png (https://postimages.org/)
Link (http://www.roymorgan.com/findings/8088-afl-supporter-ladder-june-2019-201908160718)

Our supporter numbers are fairly similar to St Kilda's and higher than Melbourne and North.

Our conversion rate of supporters to members of 15.9% isn't bad but is well behind Richmond, Melbourne, Hawthorn and North.

I don't believe that graph or article by Roy Morgan? I can't see how they put that together without surveying every person in Australia.

Of course my assumption is on gut feel and no basis.

[hujsh]

I don't believe that graph or article by Roy Morgan? I can't see how they put that together without surveying every person in Australia.

Of course my assumption is on gut feel and no basis.

You get a statistically significant, representative sample and extrapolate. There'd be a margin of error because of course they can't survey everyone but it's probably accurate-ish enough to draw general conclusions.

[bornadog]

You get a statistically significant, representative sample and extrapolate. There'd be a margin of error because of course they can't survey everyone but it's probably accurate-ish enough to draw general conclusions.

I know how they do it, but personally I can't agree. How do you get to over 1 million. Are there really that many Sydney supporters out of 24 million Aussies.

[hujsh]

I know how they do it, but personally I can't agree. How do you get to over 1 million. Are there really that many Sydney supporters out of 24 million Aussies.

People who say when prompted, 'I support the Swans'? Yeah I'd not be surprised if that's the case. I'd say, 'I support the Storm' but will I ever go to match or buy merchandise? No.

[bornadog]

People who say when prompted, 'I support the Swans'? Yeah I'd not be surprised if that's the case. I'd say, 'I support the Storm' but will I ever go to match or buy merchandise? No.

That is why it is a crap stat

[Prince Imperial]

People who say when prompted, 'I support the Swans'? Yeah I'd not be surprised if that's the case. I'd say, 'I support the Storm' but will I ever go to match or buy merchandise? No.

This is true. I think the figures for the NSW and Qld teams you can take with a grain of salt but I reckon the RM figures for the Vic/SA/WA clubs are broadly accurate

[Axe Man]

That is why it is a crap stat

Disagree. Forget about the interstate clubs, how we compare to Melbourne teams, especially teams with similar smaller supporter bases is entirely relevant.

[GVGjr]

Disagree. Forget about the interstate clubs, how we compare to Melbourne teams, especially teams with similar smaller supporter bases is entirely relevant.

It's not a perfect science but I agree wholeheartedly we also need to measure our progress against other clubs if for nothing else to learn what they might be doing better. Measuring ourselves against the previous year is probably the most important one for us.

[bornadog]

It's not a perfect science but I agree wholeheartedly we also need to measure our progress against other clubs if for nothing else to learn what they might be doing better. Measuring ourselves against the previous year is probably the most important one for us.

Best measure is member numbers and actual attendances at games.



2019 AFL Attendance





Team (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=M)
Games (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=G)
Total (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=T)
Average (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=A)


Collingwood Magpies (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-collingwood-magpies)
24
1,378,926
57,455


Richmond Tigers (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-richmond-tigers)
25
1,350,275
54,011


Essendon Bombers (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-essendon-bombers)
23
1,120,199
48,704


West Coast Eagles (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-west-coast-eagles)
24
1,096,809
45,700


Geelong Cats (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-geelong-cats)
25
1,074,836
42,993


Carlton Blues (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-carlton-blues)
22
868,366
39,471


Adelaide Crows (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-adelaide-crows)
22
788,328
35,833


Hawthorn Hawks (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-hawthorn-hawks)
22
787,621
35,801


Fremantle Dockers (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-fremantle-dockers)
22
742,420
33,746


Port Adelaide Power (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-port-adelaide-power)
22
729,811
33,173


Melbourne Demons (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-melbourne-demons)
22
718,788
32,672


Western Bulldogs (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-western-bulldogs)
23
700,952
30,476


Sydney Swans (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-sydney-swans)
22
678,483
30,840


Brisbane Lions (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-brisbane-lions)
24
662,797
27,617


GWS Giants (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-greater-western-sydney-giants)
26
659,164
25,352


St Kilda Saints (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-st-kilda-saints)
22
638,253
29,012


North Melbourne Kangaroos (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-kangaroos)
22
603,438
27,429


Gold Coast Suns (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-gold-coast-suns)
22
435,828
19,810


ALL
207
7,517,647
36,317







Attendances can also be a little deceiving as it depends on venues as well.

[jeemak]

Sorry if this has been mentioned, but do we have a comparison YoY compared to this time in 2019?

[bornadog]

Sorry if this has been mentioned, but do we have a comparison YoY compared to this time in 2019?

I had a look at last years thread and there was nothing for the same time last year. This was mainly due to the club not posting up numbers.

The closest I could get was 40,000 on 1st May. Currently we are on 36,159

[hujsh]

Best measure is member numbers and actual attendances at games.



2019 AFL Attendance





Team (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=M)
Games (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=G)
Total (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=T)
Average (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/attendances?year=2019&t=A&h=A&s=A)


Collingwood Magpies (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-collingwood-magpies)
24
1,378,926
57,455


Richmond Tigers (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-richmond-tigers)
25
1,350,275
54,011


Essendon Bombers (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-essendon-bombers)
23
1,120,199
48,704


West Coast Eagles (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-west-coast-eagles)
24
1,096,809
45,700


Geelong Cats (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-geelong-cats)
25
1,074,836
42,993


Carlton Blues (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-carlton-blues)
22
868,366
39,471


Adelaide Crows (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-adelaide-crows)
22
788,328
35,833


Hawthorn Hawks (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-hawthorn-hawks)
22
787,621
35,801


Fremantle Dockers (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-fremantle-dockers)
22
742,420
33,746


Port Adelaide Power (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-port-adelaide-power)
22
729,811
33,173


Melbourne Demons (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-melbourne-demons)
22
718,788
32,672


Western Bulldogs (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-western-bulldogs)
23
700,952
30,476


Sydney Swans (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-sydney-swans)
22
678,483
30,840


Brisbane Lions (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-brisbane-lions)
24
662,797
27,617


GWS Giants (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-greater-western-sydney-giants)
26
659,164
25,352


St Kilda Saints (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-st-kilda-saints)
22
638,253
29,012


North Melbourne Kangaroos (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-kangaroos)
22
603,438
27,429


Gold Coast Suns (https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ta-gold-coast-suns)
22
435,828
19,810


ALL
207
7,517,647
36,317







Attendances can also be a little deceiving as it depends on venues as well.

They're totally different figures though. One is you're immediate performance the other is the scope you have for growth in the short term and maybe long term. The memberships and attendances are more accurate (but as many have mentioned before both have big gaps as well) but they don't tell you the same thing as the supporter numbers.

They shouldn't be takes as gospel but I wouldn't outright dismiss them either.

[bulldogtragic]

As much I like contrasting statistical models and what Alex Rance said or not, I must say I'm seriously hanging out for some footy. :)

[jeemak]

As much I like contrasting statistical models and what Alex Rance said or not, I must say I'm seriously hanging out for some footy. :)

I just want to know how we're tracking versus the same time last year.

It could be that Baines has jumped the gun through being overly ambitious, or being vocally ambitious to try and give things a kick along.

Given we surged to 47K+ in 2017 and had a couple of shockers aiming for 50k was always going to be ambitious and possibly not realistic.

[Bulldog4life]

I just want to know how we're tracking versus the same time last year.

It could be that Baines has jumped the gun through being overly ambitious, or being vocally ambitious to try and give things a kick along.

Given we surged to 47K+ in 2017 and had a couple of shockers aiming for 50k was always going to be ambitious and possibly not realistic.

Always loved this quote. “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars.”

[Prince Imperial]

I just want to know how we're tracking versus the same time last year.

Only the club would know as they did not publicise the figures for very long periods last year.

What I can tell you from looking at the relevant BF thread was that on 27 December 2018 we had 29,159 and then on 1 May 2019 the club announced that we had 40k.

[bornadog]

I had a look at last years thread and there was nothing for the same time last year. This was mainly due to the club not posting up numbers.

The closest I could get was 40,000 on 1st May. Currently we are on 36,159


Only the club would know as they did not publicise the figures for very long periods last year.

What I can tell you from looking at the relevant BF thread was that on 27 December 2018 we had 29,159 and then on 1 May 2019 the club announced that we had 40k.

Thanks for confirming my post :)

[Bulldog4life]

Heard Carlton were selling 3 game memberships today on SEN but buyer could get another 3 matches for free.

[ledge]

Heard Carlton were selling 3 game memberships today on SEN but buyer could get another 3 matches for free.

6 for 3 yes

[Bulldog4life]

6 for 3 yes


We will come out with a special soon I guess. Last year we had a two for one special. Maybe some supporters are waiting for that again.

[Prince Imperial]

37,245

[GVGjr]

37,245

Getting better

[Axe Man]

Getting better

It would be a bit of a worry if it was getting worse!

[Prince Imperial]

It would be a bit of a worry if it was getting worse!

I think he means the level of the increase is getting better!

[GVGjr]

I think he means the level of the increase is getting better!

Yep the 40k mark will be a nice milestone

[CarnTheScray]

We hit 40k in about April or May last year so we are ahead if we hit it before the end of the month.

[bornadog]

Yep the 40k mark will be a nice milestone

Would be nice if we got there just before the season start.

[GVGjr]

Would be nice if we got there just before the season start.

It would be perfect, then a 3 or 4 game winning streak to start the season off will give it another kick

[GVGjr]

We hit 40k in about April or May last year so we are ahead if we hit it before the end of the month.

Welcome aboard,

[CarnTheScray]

Welcome aboard,

Thanks, I've actually made two previous accounts but since I didn't use the site a lot I forgot the usernames to them! The forgotten password link didn't work either.

[GVGjr]

Thanks, I've actually made two previous accounts but since I didn't use the site a lot I forgot the usernames to them! The forgotten password link didn't work either.

Thanks, I will get that checked out
There is an email address in the Contact Us option that you can also use

[Eastdog]

We hit 40k in about April or May last year so we are ahead if we hit it before the end of the month.

Welcome CarnTheScray. Hope you enjoy WOOF.

[bornadog]

SEN Membership Day
Bulldogs to take over SEN airwaves
Western Bulldogs are taking over SEN for its annual membership day


It will be a Bulldog bonanza for SEN radio listeners tomorrow, with the Club taking over the station for its annual membership day.

The Club will have a red, white and blue flavour on each of the station’s programs on Wednesday, March 11, starting with star midfielder and captain Marcus Bontempelli chatting to Tim Watson and Garry Lyon at 7.40am.

CEO Ameet Bains will feature on Whateley at 9am, defensive recruit Alex Keath will join Dwayne Russell at 12.30pm, Luke Beveridge will be in the studio with Bob Murphy and Andy Maher at 4.40pm, and rising ruckman Tim English will be live on air at 6.30pm.

And for one day only, Bulldogs fans can purchase a 10-Game Flexi general admission membership for the price of a 5-Game Flexi general admission membership. That's a massive saving of $90.

Flexi GA memberships are different from your usual general admission membership, as you can redeem multiple passes for one game for friends and family.

These 10 passes can be used in any combination across the Club’s nine home games at Marvel Stadium in 2020.

The offer starts at 9am on Wednesday, March 11 and ends at 8pm on the same day. For more details and terms and conditions, visit www.westernbulldogs.com.au/sen (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/sen)

[bornadog]

Ameet on SEN now.

[comrade]

Ameet on SEN now.

Anything of value?

[bornadog]

Anything of value?

Not really, just the same as we have read to date.

[bornadog]

10-Game Flexi GA membership for the price of a 5-Game Flexi GA membership? An offer too good to refuse!

[comrade]

10-Game Flexi GA membership for the price of a 5-Game Flexi GA membership? An offer too good to refuse!

All clubs do it but where’s the benefit in signing up early when they throw out deals like this?

[bulldogtragic]

All clubs do it but where’s the benefit in signing up early when they throw out deals like this?

What I was thinking. We are training our fan base to wait for a discount over a direct debit auto renewal. I don’t get it, but there must be some reason.

[bornadog]

Bevo should be on SEN in the next 5 to 10 min

[comrade]

Bevo should be on SEN in the next 5 to 10 min

Anything noteworthy?

[GVGjr]

Anything noteworthy?
Not really, I wanted to hear a more upbeat message

[bulldogtragic]

37,5000 as of yesterday.

[Axe Man]

37,5000 as of yesterday.

WOW! That's got to be a new world record!

[GVGjr]

37,5000 as of yesterday.

I think Baines thought they would have surpassed 38K after the SEN membership day. He also indicated we were about 10% up on the previous year. Given the concerns of the virus, that's a very strong position.

[bornadog]

I think Baines thought they would have surpassed 38K after the SEN membership day. He also indicated we were about 10% up on the previous year. Given the concerns of the virus, that's a very strong position.

Club website hasn't been updated yet, still showing 37,245. Hopefully following yesterday we do go above 38k.

[Twodogs]

Always loved this quote. “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars.”

Norman Peale.

I like Oscar Wilde's We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.

[CarnTheScray]

Looks like we won't even break 40k as long as people can't go to the games.

[GVGjr]

Looks like we won't even break 40k as long as people can't go to the games.

That maybe true but some will do it as a sense of commitment to the club, others might do it to ensure that can get finals tickets etc.

It's going to be hard for a lot of fans and members.

[strebla]

Yeah I have 4 memberships but also linked to getting gf tickets I won't be asking for my money back after 37 years of continuity I don't think one year will kill me. Did anyone else struggle back in 1990 I didn't buy mine till round 5 or 6 that year as my savings all disappeared mysteriously ������

[ledge]

Yeah I have 4 memberships but also linked to getting gf tickets I won't be asking for my money back after 37 years of continuity I don't think one year will kill me. Did anyone else struggle back in 1990 I didn't buy mine till round 5 or 6 that year as my savings all disappeared mysteriously ������

Rumour is they will add 2022 to the membership as replacement.

[Axe Man]

https://i.postimg.cc/MH682qQc/member.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Q9yzcLSs)

Unfortunately it may be the final 2020 membership figure as well.

[comrade]

I’m probably going to buy another membership this year and a bunch of merch. Also encourage everyone already a member to upgrade to social club if it’s manageable.

[CarnTheScray]

We are probably at 40K, but just as usual our club's slow with the counting.

[strebla]

Pretty sure sc membership is still full comrade

[Prince Imperial]

Pretty sure sc membership is still full comrade

They still seem able to be purchased: https://am.ticketmaster.com/bulldogs/ej-whitten-social-club#/

[1eyedog]

Pretty sure sc membership is still full comrade

You can get SC this season