It might also be an idea for clubs who are struggling with junior numbers to come and have a look at how the likes of Reynella go about running their junior program. Playing with your mates does play a role, so does parents who have had a positive experience at a club talking to other parents.
Yes Reynella do it well at the moment, as do Happy Valley, Flaggies and Brighton. It's all about a positive culture, football runs a distant second to that.
Strong clubs are all about people, and using football as a medium to make young men into great citizens.
Parents look at clubs as a whole, the clubs mentioned above work extremely hard on their culture and their overall image.
Something several clubs don't seem to get!
Great post Boof! "Positive culture" is something that the long serving Flaggies president has been going on about for many years and whilst we have had outstanding junior success that is now transitioning into the seniors, whilst being maintained at junior levels. Like you said its about people, footy runs a distant second, and we are blessed at Flaggies to have many many great people.