EXCITED Manly fans yesterday backed moves by the club to re-name Brookvale Oval.
The Sea Eagles are currently negotiating with several companies in their search for a major sponsor.
Club chief executive officer Grant Mayer is keen to explore all avenues of support as the Sea Eagles aim to solidify their financial books.
It is understood Brookvale Oval, home to the Sea Eagles since they entered the league in 1947, could be sponsored for up to $300,00 per year.
Mr Mayer said re-naming Brookvale Oval was a commercial decision to be only applied during NRL events.
“We are looking at every opportunity,†he said yesterday in between meetings with potential sponsors.
“It’s not just about naming rights sponsor, it’s about commercialising the club without losing our identity.
“It’s more expensive now to run a football club.â€Â
And it appears Mr Mayer has the fans on side.
“It’s a break from tradition but I don’t see a massive problem with that,†Freshwater’s Tony Young said.
“Every other team is doing the same, it’s a sign of the times.â€Â
Frenchs Forest’s Bryan Page also welcomed changing the ground’s name.
“You can’t ignore history but in saying that you can’t live in the past,†the 68-year-old said. “I would be happy with a new name, it would liven the place up.â€Â
Mr Mayer said Brookvale would still be retained within the naming of the ground.
Manly would not be the first club within the National Rugby League to re-name their suburban ground following Oki Jubilee Stadium (St George), Toyota Stadium (Cronulla), EnergyAustralia Stadium (Newcastle), North Queensland’s Dairy Farmers Stadium and Brisbane’s impressive Suncorp Stadium, previously known as Lang Park.