President Trevor Pledger has warned that the British League is close to “breaking point” due to a critical shortage of officials to run events.
“It has been obvious to me during the first half of the season that things are getting more and more stretched,” he declared. “Weekend schedules are being completed in some cases only because a small, dedicated group of people have been prepared to take on extra duties. But they are tired and in some cases reluctant to carry on in the same way.
“The League is struggling for officials in all areas – particularly, event managers and table officials, but also referees and delegates. We will do our very best to get through phase two of the season. But the fact remains that the current model is not sustainable and solutions must be found.
“An easy option would be to reduce the workload by cutting divisions, which obviously no one will be keen to see. But the position is that serious and we will need the involvement of all member clubs as we try to find some answers.”
The League committee debated the problem at its recent meeting, stressing the importance of maintaining standards in appointing officials whenever possible – but accepting that there would always be difficulties due to availability issues. Among suggestions was a training course for people interested in becoming event managers. Anyone willing to volunteer for any role should please contact League chairman David Andrews, dave.andrews@bwpl.org
“It has been obvious to me during the first half of the season that things are getting more and more stretched,” he declared. “Weekend schedules are being completed in some cases only because a small, dedicated group of people have been prepared to take on extra duties. But they are tired and in some cases reluctant to carry on in the same way.
“The League is struggling for officials in all areas – particularly, event managers and table officials, but also referees and delegates. We will do our very best to get through phase two of the season. But the fact remains that the current model is not sustainable and solutions must be found.
“An easy option would be to reduce the workload by cutting divisions, which obviously no one will be keen to see. But the position is that serious and we will need the involvement of all member clubs as we try to find some answers.”
The League committee debated the problem at its recent meeting, stressing the importance of maintaining standards in appointing officials whenever possible – but accepting that there would always be difficulties due to availability issues. Among suggestions was a training course for people interested in becoming event managers. Anyone willing to volunteer for any role should please contact League chairman David Andrews, dave.andrews@bwpl.org
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