The recent NRLW match between the Knights and the Dragons showcased an incredible performance by the Knights, resulting in a club-record win. However, the 'graveyard' time slot of 6:15 pm on a Sunday left the stadium disappointingly empty, despite the team's impressive display. This raises a deeper question about the scheduling and promotion of women's sports, and the potential missed opportunities to engage and grow fanbases.
The Impact of Scheduling
In my opinion, the timing of this match was a crucial factor in the low attendance. With school starting the next day and work commitments, the late evening slot made it challenging for fans, especially those with young children, to attend. It's a shame, as the Knights have a passionate and dedicated fanbase, as evidenced by their attendance record for a stand-alone NRLW match. The city of Newcastle has embraced the women's game, and yet, this prime opportunity to showcase the team's talent was somewhat wasted due to the timing.
A Missed Opportunity for Growth
What many people don't realize is that these time slots can significantly impact the growth and visibility of women's sports. A mid-afternoon game during the Women in League Round could have attracted a much larger crowd, especially with the Knights' strong following. The NRL has an obligation to consider the potential for expansion and support of these leagues, and scheduling is a key factor in that. By not providing a more fan-friendly time, the league may be missing out on crucial opportunities to engage and inspire new fans.
The Players' Perspective
The players themselves are well aware of the challenges posed by these time slots. Olivia Higgins, the home-grown hooker who achieved her 50th NRLW appearance, expressed the difficulty of the situation. As a school teacher, she understands the impact on fans with school-aged children. The part-time nature of the league also affects the players, as Dragons coach Nathan Cross pointed out, with staff and players having to balance work and study commitments. It's a tricky situation, and one that deserves further attention and consideration.
Looking Forward
Despite the challenges, the Knights' performance was a testament to their talent and spirit. The team's coach, Ben Jeffries, was rightfully ecstatic about the club-record win, highlighting the group's enjoyment and camaraderie. The diverse try-scorers demonstrate the depth and skill across the team. As the Knights prepare for their upcoming away games, they can take pride in their performance and look forward to future opportunities to showcase their abilities to a wider audience.
Conclusion
While the Knights' win was a remarkable achievement, the empty stadium serves as a reminder of the work that needs to be done to fully support and promote women's sports. Scheduling is a critical aspect of this, and by finding more fan-friendly time slots, the NRL can help ensure that these talented athletes receive the recognition and support they deserve. It's time to take a step back and think about how we can better celebrate and promote these incredible athletes and their achievements.
