Will the Wallabies get a fanfare too?
On the eve of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, we ask the question: Will the Wallabies receive the same media attention and fan fare that has been afforded to the Socceroos?
Just to prevent Soccer “bashing” or comments questioning my agenda, I enjoy Association Football or Soccer. I support Hull City AFC in the English Leagues and obviously the Socceroos. I’m looking forward to putting in the hard yards for this World Cup. The 4:30am starts, the thrills and despair that go with it. So will many Australians.
The FFA relish this time every 4 years, where there’s more then 50% of media devoted to the World Cup. Considering they’re fighting for the hearts & minds of young children, in a very diluted sporting landscape. The Socceroos (and the World Cup in general) have had everything afforded to them. From player posters in the print media to relatively cheap merchandise options and even a special livery Qantas plane.
I’m sure these aren’t the priority of the ARU and John O’Neill, more that come early September next year, the general public is aware the Wallabies have a very good chance to win their 3rd World Cup. Let’s be honest here, the Socceroos have little chance of winning this years World Cup, considering the age of Australia as a “footballing nation”. However, the road traveled in order to quality for South Africa, offers much more excitement that of New Zealand for the Wallabies. Due to Australia’s IRB ranking and record at the previous World Cup, we automatically qualify, much different from the hard fought matches against some of Asia’s best teams. The former still offers a better outcome.
We can be assured that the Wallabies will not go unnoticed when it comes to TV coverage, considering Channel 9 owns the rights to the 2011 and 2015 World Cups. Combined with FoxSports, it will prove to be a powerful duo. This may also help it gaining support for live sites in Australian major cities, similar to what has happened for Germany in 2006 and will happen for South Africa this year. My personal concern is that there will be a lack of print media attention, but only time will tell.
At the end of the day, it will be up to us, the Rugby tragics to spread the word, encouraging our family and friends to support the Wallabies, as they will the Socceroos.
Source: Zimbio
