After attending our last two home games at Campbelltown, I wanted to share some thoughts on the experience — both the positives and the negatives — and see if others feel the same.
Positives
Decals & Presentation
It’s clear the club has put real effort into making the ground feel like home. The signage on the way in, the “Home of the Wests Tigers” branding on the grandstands, it all makes a big difference. There was also a graffiti mural near the ground which looked awesome. Those small details go a long way in creating the feeling that this is home.
Pre-game videos
The pre-game hype videos and team list visuals have been outstanding. The video last night gave me chills. Showing footage from 2000 mixed with the last few years, with Luai saying "we've built the platform now it's time to rise." The social media team really has their finger on the pulse of what this team is and where we are at as a club. Very professional.
Crowd
The crowds have been great. Even with a strong Broncos presence last night, Tigers fans showed up and made the effort — many, like myself, travelling 40+ minutes. That commitment shows how many of us want a united Wests Tigers.
Negatives
MC
The MC or whatever you want to call him has been appalling. The cringey humour, odd name pronunciations, and complete inability to start a chant did the opposite of what he is paid to do. I. unknowing bought tickets in the away bay and sitting near Broncos fans, I was honestly embarrassed.
Atmosphere
The crowd is there. The pre game music is good but....the atmosphere is dead. In both games there have been moments where the crowd is quite literally quiet. No noise. I think it might be the configuration of the ground that allows the noise to escape. The sections of the stadium 'feel' disconnected. At one point Luai was trying to pump up the crowd...I think he felt it too.
Overall
We need a new Campbelltown stadium. Something resembling Commbank with stands that keep the noise inside the stadium is what this team deserves. A stadium that creates an atmosphere that away fans feel intimidating attending and our boys feel pumped to perform in front of. The fans are ready we just need the stadium (and the MC) to match it.
