Welcome to our second update from your LSL Committee. Read on for a few updates on what’s been keeping us busy this month!
Season Structure: Since our last article, the season plan was agreed and publicised, and an incredible 44 teams registered (thanks guys!). The committee has therefore spent a huge amount of time working on creating a fun, but feasible, grade and division structure for our one-off 2021 season. While regional fixtures were originally considered, this proved a moot point because teams indicated their players come from across London, and so would still have to travel regardless of structure. So in summary, this year we have four Grades (Red, White, Gold and Blue) each split into two equal-ability divisions and teams will get to play ten fixtures. See our previous article for the original plan announcement.
Fixtures Schedule: Of course, along with the main structure of a season comes the huge task of arranging every single match. This includes ensuring all teams play each other, they all play equal number of Home and Away fixtures, that umpires are scheduled and, most importantly, there are no pitch clashes! With the loss of one pitch after a first draft and a resulting rewrite of the schedule, this was a huge task and definitely worthy of a pint now pubs have reopened (even if it is outside).
Captains’ and Players’ Packs: The ever-important Captains’ Pack, outlining everything needed for teams to play this year, was distributed to all captains. Please make sure you refer to it regularly and if you’re a captain but have not received it yet, get in touch asap! A Players’ Pack, giving guidance to all players, will be published soon.
New Players: 101 Sessions for complete beginners to the sport were also announced. Starting on 10th May, they will run every Monday evening (6.45-9.00pm) at Regent’s Park for £4 per session. If you’ve never picked up a glove (or even if you have but are rusty!) you’ll learn everything you need to play our great sport and be ready for summer tournaments. You’ll also be able to form a team ready for our next season with everyone you learnt with, so you’ll have true team camaraderie! For more info and to sign up, fill in our dedicated 101 Registration Form.
And the Rest: Umpire training continues to progress with those registered last year to be offered courses this year – any open spots will be advertised too! Two new forms for Occasional Ringers have also been created to help those looking for extra ad hoc players. Committee members have attended separate workshops on Marketing and Trans-Inclusivity while others have scoped out the possibility of other fields for this and future seasons.
Another busy month! See you on a diamond soon!