Quote: Teessidewire "You Cru people need to keep the faith. I was involved in Gateshead Thunder after Kath Hetherington pulled the plug. The big problem we had was that they packed their bags and went off to Hull without even telling any of the Thunder fans until they had actually gone. North East supporters and sponsors were left high and dry, some sponsors were left out of pocket and did not trust the new club because of the mess left behind by the old one. In 1 season we had gone from 1000 regular fans to 3000, but we were sacrificed to keep Hull going. The main thing you need to do is to ensure that you have the finance to compete. The very best of luck to all at Cru.'"
Don't worry, as long as the Cru are going, at no matter what level I'll be there. We've got a ''Save the Cru'' campaign going in which 5,000 people have wrote in support of Crusaders and just over 500 people have pledged to buy a season ticket for next season in about a week of them being there to pledge for. I think we've got enough support. Our fan base, though it may be quite small, is very commited. We've had a lot of people offering help in the community and there's always been a sense of togetherness between everyone. I agree, finance is the key problem. In the bid for a Championship team, we have all our sponsors from last season on board, as well as the Supporters Club and the local council. Is there actually someone outright putting in money themselves, as a long-term backer? I'm not sure. The bid makes a lot of sense and can work, but the finance is going to depend massively on the support the club can get. I say we have a good solid supporters base, but you can't really blame people who decide to take up the option of watch Super League 40 miles up the road.
I hope we have a club. Rugby League in North Wales has gone from zero to a very good position it is in now, with new teams forming all the while. So much hard work has been put in by numerous people, if it counted for little, it'd be a real shame.
Cheers for the support
