BOP66, I think you've taken a reasonable assumption, that is - the AFL are indifferent to our success, and painted yourself further and further into the silly corner with talk of outright conspiracy to purposely put roadblocks to our competitiveness.
If we have had no favors, it's because winners aren't seen to need them.
If others have been given breaks, it's because a competition is only just that when teams are competitive.
Yes TV money etc is ultimately vital to growing our sport, but the truth is that the Aussie populace need a reason to follow and spend money on our game and give it the passion that drives it ever forward. Stand still, even for 5 to 10 years, and other sports will happily walk by.
I get where you come from, but your ultimate peace of mind should come from knowing you support the HFC, and that nothing, nothing stops our Club in it's quest for success.
So just walk on mate, know that we earn ALL our cups, there are no cheapies, and glorious deeds are what define us.
What other clubs or supporters think doesn't matter, because we've done it the Hard Way, and can you think of any other way more satisfying?