This was basically Cameron Schwab’s argument in that 1993 - year that delivered podcast last week
If Essendon were operating out of the MCG and won a flag they would comfortably outdraw every Vic club including Richmond and Collingwood.
I can't prove that simply because they are in the Dome for keeps but I am convinced of it.
80,000 members operating out of the Dome a couple of years after druggie gate and with no success for a decade or more........ Remarkable.
Collingwood needed a flag to do it.
Richmond? Remarkable ability to actively engage the base. Truly remarkable. The famous "Army" is about atmosphere and noise rather than simple numbers. However nationally we are way behind. Perhaps that is changing a bit with the current success but that underlying reality will remain. Of all the great Melbourne clubs Richmond remains closest to its suburban roots in terms of fanbase.