Alright, perhaps the article title is a little bit premature and misleading, and yes, I am a lifelong fan of the Mighty Bears.
So I guess at this point I should offer a little disclaimer: the following article provides real facts, combined with some obvious bias, regarding the expansion of the National Rugby League (NRL).
Whilst the talk of expansion continues to increase amongst fans and the media, NRL Chief Executive David Gallop has approached the topic cautiously.
“I think it is critically important that the 16 clubs that we have got are not going to easily deal with expansion,” Mr Gallop said.
“But we are looking at places like the Central Coast, like the areas west of Brisbane, like Perth, like Adelaide, some time in the future but we are not prepared to put a date on those.”
You see, for an excited Bears fan, Gallop’s words are easily misrepresented and rearranged.
“Did you hear Gallop the other day? He said that the 16 clubs would easily deal with expansion and that he would look to places like the Central Coast,” I told my Dad.
OK, so maybe the expansion talks haven’t officially started, but can you blame me for the exaggeration?
It’s been ten long years without my team and the seats at Central Coast Stadium still spell “Go Bears”.
I think I am entitled to be a little delusional.
So what about my second claim? Will the Bears be considered?
Well, I can tell you now, the Bears will be considered.
North Sydney Chief Executive, Greg Florimo is leading the club’s push for resurrection and is confident about their chances.
“If the Central Coast had its own team in the NRL competition we would fill the Bluetongue Stadium in Gosford for every home game.”
Florimo’s confidence was backed up strongly by David Gallop, who openly addressed the Central Coast in Gosford during the week.
“I’ve always had great sympathy for the Bears and for what happened with their former bid to become a Central Coast team.”
“Certainly if it comes to the point of choosing between what clubs should be allowed to relocate to the Central Coast the Bears would be right in the mix,” Mr Gallop said.
Florimo has sniffed out an opportunity, with a new TV rights deal to be negotiated prior to 2012. This new proactive approach might be just what the doctor ordered.
Rather than wait to be called upon, the Bears will be ready to approach business in three weeks, with a goal of securing significant financial contributors.
Florimo is also aware of the Central Coast’s desire for a team they can truly call their own. To provide this, the club will be known as the Central Coast Bears, with the entire football club operation to be located on the Coast.
Other new initiatives will be announced this year, targeted at gaining the support of locals and providing a people power element to the bid.
It is an exciting time for Central Coast and North Sydney Rugby League fans. The time feels right and Central Coast is ready.
So expect the calls to get louder, strengthening the case for a return of the Bears.
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