There was a time when HBU and NCR had the appearance of being one and the same. While [I think] HBU was set up as a separate entity, all of the same people were involved in running both clubs, they played and trained at the same venue, all of the same volunteers [mainly] did so for both clubs and the coaches were the same too. I was involved on the periphery and with a non NCR club and I know that when wearing the HBU hat - the club management went to great lengths to try and sell that HBU was not just NCR in disguise but a team for the whole province. There was a strong perception by many clubs that it was a NCR old boys club and therefore the team didn't get widespread support from local clubs and supporters. I know that the local kids didn't have that perception and the likes of Maycenvale regularly hired a hospitality tent at games but I don't think there was much buy in from other club administrators except Peter Grant from Taradale [who was HBU chairman].I think that Central Football have always had the local game at heart when it comes to HBU and they essentially took over the running of the club to keep it operational.
There have always been conflicting philosophies on junior football subsidising senior football, grassroots subsidising elite football, clubs subsidising regional franchises and in this thread we have seen the 2 sides to that argument. Personally I am a little torn, the challenge is getting the balance right. If Dunkin Donut's view is the prevailing one in the HB/Central football community, then changes probably need to be made to the HBU model. I wonder if his view is the prevailing one though?
From what we have seen, as a volunteer (me) and as a fan (my husband), there is a huge difference between being involved with NCR vs HBU. We have only lived in the Bay for a few years, so I can't speak to the history of either club, but NCR are certainly very welcoming open these days. I've had fantastic time working with them, and they really make volunteers and fans feel a part of the family.
Re HBU, I've been stepped away as a volunteer for the time being and will join my husband in the stands. Perhaps I'll return if things improve.
I do know that there are a number of fans who feel disconnected from the HBU. I've been stopped on the street on numerous occasions by people who recognize me from HBU match days and who have spoken about their unhappieness.
I truly hope this can all be sorted, as in the end, we all want footy here to grow.