On the one hand that sounds like a conspiracy theory, on the other it is not hard to imagine the AFL being run like the Truman Show.
We know that equalisation is a thing which is in reality designed to make the product more interesting for consumption, which means essentially manufacturing the competition.
We also know about the following exchange:
Hobson: “So aren’t we concerned with what actually happened?’’
Lukin: “No, it won’t help us moving forward.’’
Andrew Demetriou used to reveal in his public statements that he judged his performance on “Media tracking”, as if that was the truth, or at least the only truth that matters.
So do we believe that the AFL has become reality TV? TV where the participants regularly feel defamed by the editing of the show in order to create “good television”. TV land is where it all comes down to money and ratings and everything else is secondary.
This simultaneously seems preposterous and self evident.
Is this why there is a roof on Etihad Stadium?
“Cue the Sun.”, says Gil at 3/4 time when we are two goals up against the doggies and this will blind Joe and Cale. Shh, I shouldn’t be giving him ideas, just as well we’re not playing GWS there again this year.
I know, I know, I’m being paranoid. It is not as if there are 1500 journalist/communication specialists who are reliant on the AFL for their accreditation so their media organisations can get a piece of the pie. That would just have too much scope for corruption and controlling the narrative. That sort of thing only happens in places like North Korea.