Hudson River Derby Foundation Launches

[Christopher Jee]

Can someone explain to me what this passage means in practical terms:

The HRD Foundation ensures that the soccer derby in the world’s greatest city belongs to, and is run for the benefit of, its independent supporters.

The release has as much meaningless jargon than anything I've ever read from a silicon valley tech company.

I think it means that professional / profitable football means nothing without supporters and we shouldn't just have to accept what various monopolists are forcing down our throats.

But I'm clearly biased lol

 

[engine46]

It is my understanding that the current fundraising via merchandise will contribute to the design/creation of the trophy and that’s it. After that, each supporter’s group will be able to sell its own merchandise to support itself and the foundation’s operating expenses.

 

[FredMertz]

I think it means that professional / profitable football means nothing without supporters and we shouldn't just have to accept what various monopolists are forcing down our throats.

But I'm clearly biased lol

I also have no idea what that means, practically. Other than giving a cup, what can/will a group like this do? What do the analogs in other cups do?

 

[mgarbowski]

After that, each supporter’s group will be able to sell its own merchandise to support itself and the foundation’s operating expenses.

Operating expenses to do what though. That's what everyone keeps asking. What is the purpose of this foundation, if anything, after they buy the trophy?

 

[Shwafta]

I also have no idea what that means, practically. Other than giving a cup, what can/will a group like this do? What do the analogs in other cups do?

Operating expenses to do what though. That's what everyone keeps asking. What is the purpose of this foundation, if anything, after they buy the trophy?

I'm assuming they're going to do teaming up with the teams. For example, if they have a lot left over after whatever they raise, maybe they'll help towards promoting the derbies and getting butts in the door... Or maybe they help in matchday experience like free stuff in-stadium or entertainment, etc... Anything to raise the appeal of going to HDR's

That's my thoughts on the matter

 

[Christopher Jee]

I also have no idea what that means, practically. Other than giving a cup, what can/will a group like this do? What do the analogs in other cups do?

I think it creates a united voice. There's a reason that divide and conquer is a strategy. Forming an entity that speaks for both / all sides can resolve disputes that create division and add weight to common causes, versus relying on partisan supporter groups / clubs to speak without resolution.

The competition and presentation of the trophy potentially create a platform or an event at which this perspective can be given attention.

It's a long play, but what now appears to be (barely) symbolic could one day affect material outcomes.

 

[moogoo]

When I first read this, I thought it was a good idea. But after I thought about it and read a bit of the press release, it just seemed pointless? Maybe my thinking is just too short term and shallow and the long term purpose of this foundation is beyond my imagination or understanding. But as everyone has been saying, after they design/create the trophy with the money raised, what else is there other than marketing the games and selling merch.

The simple terms of who is awarded the cup would have been nice to publish as well. If it mirrors the cascadia cup for example, the trophy is awarded at the end of the season or after the 2nd regular season derby match (not sure if they'd take into consideration USOC draws and playoffs). If tied on points, as normally calculated for table standings, then it would go to goal differential, then most goals scored, etc etc to do the tie break.

EDIT: also wanted to add... why wasn't the NYC Supporters Club included in this foundation? This is supposed to be a foundation to benefit the supporters, right? So why was one of the recognized supporter groups not included in the discussion and creation of this foundation?