“We just won’t be playing here”: Is Leichhardt and the Tigers’ time to play over?.
In the next ninety days, Wests Tigers supporters will be able to choose whether NRL games will still take place at Leichhardt Oval, a venue they adore.
Known to league fans as “the Eighth Wonder of the World,” this inner-western Sydney arena provided unforgettable spectacles on Saturday night as 15,990 fans celebrated Benji Marshall’s maiden victory as coach against Cronulla.
On the other hand, Tigers CEO Shane Richardson disclosed that he had received multiple grievances from families on the “abysmal” circumstances at the stadium, with numerous comments referring to protracted lines for restrooms and uncouth conduct on the hill.
At a press conference held on Monday inside the away dressing sheds, Richardson accompanied Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne in pleading for state government assistance to modernize the ground.
Since Benji Marshall was in diapers, Leichhardt Oval “hasn’t received any funding from the state government,” according to Byrne.
He declared that he would be content to get “just a fraction” of the $309 million allotted for the renovation of Penrith’s stadium, which would feature “gold-plated urinals.”
When Richardson was visiting Leichhardt as the CEO of a rival team, he disclosed that he had been forced to shower his players after two consecutive games because “the hot-water system and showers weren’t working.”
The Tigers currently have 8,000 members, and by the end of the following year, they hope to have 13,000, with the goal of reaching 30,000.
Richardson is eager to have something finalized “in the next 60 to 90 days” as they do not yet have a home field for the upcoming season.
Richardson stated, “Saturday night’s conditions were appalling.” We just won’t be playing here if action isn’t taken swiftly to secure Leichhardt Oval’s finances.
“How are we going to [continue playing without upgrades]? It will be useless for us to play here if we don’t receive the corporate facilities and membership amenities we need.
“I want everyone to know that the Inner West Council and I have made every effort to remain here. Let no one even entertain the slightest thought to the contrary. However, the way things are going right now, I can’t It is that simple: it won’t happen.
Moving to Accor Stadium across the street, according to Richardson, would be a feasible possibility. CommBank Stadium, albeit “it’s Parramatta’s stadium at this stage,” is an alternative for 2025.
Richardson responded, “All I know is Souths built their membership from 8000 to 32,000, they still hold the record for the biggest crowd ever for a [regular season] fixture – 58,000 against the Roosters – and the biggest crowd ever for a semi-final.” Fans have frequently lamented the lack of atmosphere at Accor when there are so many empty seats.
It is not possible to accomplish it at Redfern Oval. Without soul? Though it may seem insignificant, take a glance at South Sydney’s financial sheet’s bottom line.
“We had 16,000 people on Saturday night, but 16,000 people ought to be the bare minimum for Wests Tigers.” Aiming for average attendance of 20,000 or 22,000 and 30,000 members is our goal. In what location do they sit?
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