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Nick Taylor - The West Australian on November 1, 2016, 9:22 am
The radical Western Force plan for fan ownership of the club would have a major influence on the future landscape of Super Rugby in Australia, says ARU boss Bill Pulver.
The Force is under threat amid speculation that one of the five Australian Super franchises could be culled after next season.
They have been under prolonged financial pressure and formed an ownership alliance with the ARU earlier this year, lifting a $4 million debt from their shoulders.
But as revealed in The Weekend West the club, in a campaign tagged "Own The Force", is on the verge of issuing at least 5000 certificates of ownership, costing about $1000 each.
The buy-back scheme would bring a much-needed cash injection and give fans a say in the franchise.
The ARU can remove the Super licence of any of its clubs, including the privately owned Melbourne Rebels, if governing body SANZAAR demands change.
Pulver has welcomed the Force initiative, saying all clubs need to investigate their financial sustainability.
More words from Pulver here
https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sp...ays-aru/#page1