Print this pagePort Adelaide will pitch for more Friday night football in the wake of the SANFL's $5.5 million lighting upgrade at AAMI Stadium.
Without a minor-round appearance at West Lakes in the prime timeslot this season and just one allocated for next year, the Power will push its case for greater Friday-night exposure in season 2009.
And Port chief executive John James is now armed with the knowledge the lighting at the stadium will be brought into line with rival AFL venues.
"We would say we certainly think we're due more Friday nights than we've received in the past," James said.
"And this enhancement to AAMI Stadium gives us another opportunity to revisit Friday night football for the Port Adelaide Football Club."
Eager to increase crowd numbers at the club's home matches, James said it was crucial to cater for the team's supporter base.
"We will continue to target more footy for us on Friday and Saturday nights and this (lighting upgrade) certainly gives us an opportunity to build a strong business case," James said.
"We know that they're certainly two nights that our supporters and members have as favourite times to come and watch us play."
SANFL executive commissioner Leigh Whicker said the new lights – part of the stadium's $100m upgrade – would also suit the demands of the AFL's broadcast partners.
"I think it's going to enhance our opportunity to get more night events here and from the broadcasters' point of view it (the game) looks much better on TV too," Whicker said.
"All of our consultation has been done in conjunction with all broadcasters, a lot of work has been done in that area.
"Most of the (Friday night) games are earmarked for Telstra Dome but we'd certainly put our hand up for any additional games."
Whicker said once the new lights were installed – by March 2009 – the case for a night SANFL grand final became even stronger. But ultimately that decision rested with the SANFL clubs.
Courtesy of The Advertiser
Story by Zac Milbank