COUNTY LEAGUE ISSUES WARNING
COUNTY League clubs have been told to behave themselves on the pitch or face the possibility of Step 7 league folding for good.
A hard-hitting letter circulated to all clubs in Kent County Football League this week told how the future of the Step 7 to 9 divisions in the region are now under serious threat with ill-discipline at its highest ever level, while threatening action against offending clubs and individuals.
In the last 12 months, no fewer than seven matches have been abandoned due to player behaviour with the police called on more than one occasion.
At the same time, 14 games this season have not been fulfilled due to the actions of one club alone, while abuse towards match officials is also on the up with no fewer than 23 charges levied for match official approaches.
“The Executive Committee has now decided enough is enough and will put forward to the full committee its plan to turn this decline around,” league chairman Gavin Hoare warned in the letter. “This serious bad behaviour has to stop immediately.
“It is clear that some clubs cannot control it, so it’s time for the League to explore what we can do.
“I will be talking with the FA on possible points deductions, this may also mean recommendations to expel clubs from the league.
“I will also seek the permission to name and shame those causing you, the majority of member clubs, these problems.
“If we do not deal with this minority both quickly and effectively then it will be the majority that will suffer, as there may well be no League for them to play in. There are no other people to take over the running of this league if senior officers walk away. Trust me this is not a threat.
“I remain confident that the vast majority of good clubs in this league will support the management committee in taking the toughest actions against those spoiling the game for the rest of us.
“In truth. it’s only member clubs that can vote a club out if we make recommendation to do so. I implore you, do not be the first club that members eject from the league.
“We have set a high standard, which we accept has fallen somewhat, mainly following the Covid Seasons. We have not restored standards back to pre-Covid times. This will be addressed immediately, and if it means a few are not able to maintain those standards, then this may not be the league for them.”
All those that have known me over the years know I speak with honesty. I will lead and fully support my team in what may be some tough decisions we will have to take, and I will support all referees that continue to try and do their best under, in some cases, the most unacceptable pressures.”