Could Spectator Success Be TFC's Achilles Heal?

[Tuscan]

We all know the adage that a loyal customer is far more valuable than a new customer, and generally is less expensive to maintain. With this thought and with some of the displeasing decisions TFC management has made over these first three seasons in mind, could it be suggested that the immediate success in regards to creating a loyal and consistent fan base actually be a hindrance to TFC rather than a bonus?

By this I mean, TFC hasn't had to try as hard as other MLS organizations to create a loyal fan base, as it seemed to appear overnight rather than gradually and through results-oriented success. Due to this immediate success and growth of loyal fans, the organization has been given sort of a "Pass Go and collect $200" right off the bat rather than having to put more time and energy into building the fan base.

If TFC fail to reach the playoffs, there must be massive backlash from the fans. Calls for heads to roll must be predominant. Don't let ML$E off the hook like Leafs fans do; force them to recognize that this is a totally new ball game that they have engaged in, and that the ball lies more in the court of the fan base and not in the organizations bank account.

I'm going to go back to reading my TQM textbook now.

[squizz1402635577]

I definitely see your underlying point. But we've already seen the TFC faithful stage a protest against front office when they felt their concerns weren't being addressed. Say what you will about the actual protest (it was unfocused, etc.), but it's a hell of a lot more than <s>Complacency</s> Leaf Nation has been able to do in 40 years.

[powerof11]

quote:Originally posted by squizz

I definitely see your underlying point. But we've already seen the TFC faithful stage a protest against front office when they felt their concerns weren't being addressed. Say what you will about the actual protest (it was unfocused, etc.), but it's a hell of a lot more than <s>Complacency</s> Leaf Nation has been able to do in 40 years.

While the protest is true, it appeared they "jedi-mind-tricked" supporters into thinking all was well...with the "see what we're doing for you" response to the organizational issues.

I agree with Tuscan, especially how MLSE used the fortress/our house/stadium atmosphere that was really created by the supporters...against them, in year three.

Example? Well...how about this nutty tactic of throwing people out for standing and cheering. Only in supporters sections?! Why doesn't this come up as a symptom of, again, the organization?

On the other hand, if one has an opinion regarding the team and it doesn't match the ultra-focus of supporters groups...one is an idiot? Toronto FC's success as the league's, is very important to the advancement and development of the sport in North America and the National Team. Therefore, shouldn't we put forth our ideas? Agree or disagree - fine. But don't be blinded by having Toronto FC to call your own. It's not enough.

MLSE has the cash to keep it going. But it still isn't understanding what it takes to make a successful soccer team. In three years, see all the head-scratching moves they've made. It's all there to see.

Support the players that bust it on the pitch...whether they've got the goods or not. They're trying hard for us - for their pride. But management...?

[john tv]

Hey ask a TML season ticket holder.It is indeed horrible to have to wait this long. Soccer has the hockey desease and that goes all the way back to good old Harold The Ballard man.Just picture these board meetings being all about that return on investment.

Both very good, but on the sport performance side a disaster.How about a combined protest march from the Princess gate to the stadium and be joined by Maple Leaf fans as well.