ABC to end WAFL matches after 25 years
ABC will cease broadcasting the WAFL matches after more than 25 years, but commercial networks are poised to step in.
- Published by David Knox
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The ABC has confirmed this will be its final season broadcasting the WAFL matches after more than 25 years, but commercial networks are poised to step in.
ABC Television Head of TV Sport and Events, Justin Holdforth, said: “ABC TV is unable, at this stage, to commit to the broadcast of the WAFL in 2015 and beyond.
“The ABC fully understands the necessity for the WAFC to achieve certainty around WAFL broadcasts next year. As in Tasmania and South Australia, we would not stand in the way of the WAFC securing a sensible commercial deal. In the end the most important thing is that the people of WA are not denied access to television coverage of the WAFL.”
Perth Now reports Seven remains the frontrunner but Nine has shown interest and remains in the mix.
Seven’s three-year proposal hinges on attracting $1 million sponsorship per season.
WAFC chief operating officer Nick Sautner said, “On behalf of the WAFL, I thank the ABC for broadcasting the WAFL since 1987. The coverage has been outstanding and highly valued.
“However, we also believe it is extremely important for the WAFL competition to be televised and the WAFC is exploring other opportunities to achieve certainty of statewide coverage going forward.”
5 Responses
THe irony of all this is that the ABC will still be providing the OB Facilities and Staff as either TVW7 nor STW 9 have an operating OB Van/Crew and hire the ABC to do their work
I wouldn’t like it if Seven picked it up as I reckon they will spoil the game just like they do with the AFL.
Feeling very sad about ABC ending the WAFL.
Wonder if Channel 7 will pick it up like in Adelaide. Some matches actually rate quite highly either on 7 or 7mate.
This happened here with the SANFL. I do prefer it on the ABC without the ads, but 7 don’t do a bad job really.