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Jimmy Cowan - Source: Photosport -
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The Highlanders have not ruled out reversing their decision to change jerseys next season, but it would take a pretty convincing argument to do so, general manager Roger Clark said yesterday.
The southern franchise will run out in a "commemorative" strip - widely expected to be green - for their last-ever game at Carisbrook tomorrow night, ditching the predominately blue and gold strip they have worn since the advent of professional rugby in 1996.
They will then carry their new colours into next season, when the team will be based at Dunedin's new waterfront stadium, unless they are persuaded to do otherwise.
"You've got to show the courage of your convictions when you make decisions.
"As an organisation we made a decision, but I don't want to sound arrogant with that - as an organisation you've got to listen."
The backlash against the jersey change has been vociferous, especially from Otago, with some polls running at more than 90 per cent against ditching the old version.
Clark admitted he had been surprised at the reaction, particularly given the struggle it has been to get people to games at Carisbrook this season.
The Highlanders jersey was a distant last in terms of merchandise sales behind the four other New Zealand franchises, but there were obviously people who did care about what colour it was, he said.
If it was decided that the latest move was having a detrimental effect on fan numbers, then it could be reviewed, Clark said.
The Southland Times understands factions in Otago rugby and media circles were putting pressure on the Highlanders board to reverse their decision.
The decision to change jerseys was made last year by the Highlanders management team, including Clark and coach Jamie Joseph, with advice from a marketing consultant and was part of a wider strategy that included the "I Believe" campaign.
A recommendation was made to the Highlanders board, which has representatives from each of the three member unions on it who are charged with taking information back to their unions.
All three unions - North Otago, Southland and Otago - should have been notified by their representatives in November, and North Otago and Southland appeared to be happy with the decision, Clark said.
Clark would not confirm the colours being used in the new jersey because he is hoping the anticipation will pull more people through the gates tomorrow night.
Once those colours had been made public, the choice would be explained, he said.
