Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Sunday Social games: Should it continue? How to make it the preferred event of the week?

It is an open secret that the Sunday social game does to a certain extent compete with Saturday or Sunday friendlies. It is seen by many as inferior because it is perceived to be "uncompetitive" because there are no referees involved as well as the non-application of the offside rule. There are also no fixed team mates as players are basically divided according to coloured or white jerseys with those with perhaps with a better torso (body) in their own skin colour making up the balancing group. Meanwhile, players do not have to make a commitment to come as the event is of a social nature thus resulting in differing numbers (between 17 to 32 this year) and identities of people every week. As facilitator, I often have two questions that seeks answers: "Should the games be continued?" and "What can be done to make it the preferred event of the week?"

Current positives are:
1) An opportunity to play in one of Penang's best playing field
2) Complete freedom to decide on whether to come or not to come
3) Opportunity to network with a well diversified group
4) Chance to play or experiment in any soccer position
5) A good retirement alternative for those who prefer not to play friendlies any more

Current negatives are:
1) Lack of an ability to prevent rough or dangerous play
2) Some feel that certain players are too critical and vocal on the pitch
3) Games are starting a little bit late so as to limit play time
4) Hardly as challenging and exciting as friendlies

So what say you?

April 2009 Monthly Chat

I realised that I have been doing most of the talking and have not provided for others to chat as well. Hence, starting from this month (April 2009) and for every subsequent month thereafter, I will create a monthly chat column with no restriction on topics to be discussed. However, please avoid offending others or the use of abusive language. I will put up additional posts if there is a request through this monthly chat column.