gjsims
18th April 2002, 11:52
The pattern of the last ten years shows no signs of relenting. When I first played in the Brighton league, about 13 years ago, there was nearly 20 divisions. Now there are only five and the standard is in freefall.
My main observation is that there are many once strong local leagues that are noe completely dominated by one or two large clubs. These clubs are not getting the high standard of play that their members require and people simply stop playing the game.
Of course, the better players could always play for their county or at least attend county training sessions. But there are only so many county places available. What people need is regualr competitive badminton, and in many locations is is just not available.
Perhaps the only way to provide this competition is to organise a national or regional league. I am not advovating a league of top players bought in with the fees of normal club members or even large sums of sponsorship. I am simply suggesting one method of structuring club badminton to provide more competitive games.
If you discount cricket there are no 'successful' sports in England, or even the world, that operate in a county-like manner. Even the cricket county sides are run in a manner more like top clubs than counties.
Arguments more than welcome...
My main observation is that there are many once strong local leagues that are noe completely dominated by one or two large clubs. These clubs are not getting the high standard of play that their members require and people simply stop playing the game.
Of course, the better players could always play for their county or at least attend county training sessions. But there are only so many county places available. What people need is regualr competitive badminton, and in many locations is is just not available.
Perhaps the only way to provide this competition is to organise a national or regional league. I am not advovating a league of top players bought in with the fees of normal club members or even large sums of sponsorship. I am simply suggesting one method of structuring club badminton to provide more competitive games.
If you discount cricket there are no 'successful' sports in England, or even the world, that operate in a county-like manner. Even the cricket county sides are run in a manner more like top clubs than counties.
Arguments more than welcome...