Report-card system needs to be upheld

common occurrence and there is sympathy with the “one-man band situation” of having to do everything with little help or support.

The academic non-compliance of many clubs to league rules is a constant financial headache, forfeiting money they can ill afford, so it’s becoming more apparent that reference to the handbook is paramount to help prevent repeat errors.

Ignorance is no excuse, so clubs must be aware of what is expected.

Club reps attending meetings should be more aware of their responsibilities and inform their clubs in more detail, as to what transpires in the meetings, what has gone wrong and what is required, again paying particular attention to the handbook, which secretaries and managers should be referring to on a regular basis.

Many clubs or their teams have left the District League over the years for greener pastures and found that shortcomings are not tolerated. They conform quickly and do what is required.

The Referees Association is aware that referees in the past have not reported all the problems they encounter, as previously mentioned, and this encourages more of the same week after week. To compound the situation, some of these officials are not members of the RA and not aware of their responsibilities.

This gives rise to an overall discipline problem on both sides of the fence.

A solution may be found with the RA, FA and the clubs of the District League working closer together to improve the fundamental status of our local football fraternity.

The future is everyone’s responsibility.