Coburg Tigers out of dangerby Sam Landsberger
Moreland Leader
5 Mar 12 AFTER a year operating in “an environment of fear”, the future of the Coburg Football Club is secure, with the Tigers winning an alignment renewal with AFL powerhouse Richmond.
Coburg general manager Jake McCauley revealed to the Leader the VFL-AFL alignment had been signed and filed to AFL Victoria, ensuring the Tigers remain tied together until at least the end of 2014.
Uncertainty swamped Coburg 12 months ago when Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale and coach Damien Hardwick said they wanted to ditch Coburg in favour of entering a reserves side to enhance their player development.
But with the AFL Tigers unable to wear the financial hurdles severing ties would create, Mr McCauley said his club was safe.
“We’re in strategic planning now but it’s really hard to know what 2015 and beyond looks like,” Mr McCauley said.
“The Coburg board made a decision to stay in an alignment for the next three years.
“We’ll continue to work to ensure this great club, which is 122 years young, continues to exist hopefully for another 122 and more.”
Mr McCauley said most VFL clubs were operating in fear last year, with alignment contracts lasting just 12 months, but were relieved AFL Victoria pushed AFL clubs to enter new three-year arrangements.
Mr McCauley ensured Coburg would not abandon its identity by ditching its name and jumper.
“Richmond has never looked or asked for that. They’re aware of the 120-odd year history and have been extremely supportive,” he said.
The Coburg-Richmond alignment is entering its 13th year and Mr McCauley said it was one of the strongest in the competition.
http://moreland-leader.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/have-your-say-coburg-tigers-out-of-danger/