03-29-2008, 09:38 AM
I would, for personal reasons, prefer if you stick to my pseudonym. Debrah Ferguson’s response to my submission concerning the red card system provides more questions than answers, hence my response. Firstly, she is quite correct in inferring that I am confused about the purpose of the red card – as is every other bowler that I have spoken to. Surely if I have some youngster(s) involved at my club, I would know who they are - so why have a card? Or am I being stupid here? Secondly, I never suggested that there is a charge for the card. I merely commented that the system adds no value and is a schlep. To substantiate my point the Bowls SA circular in question states:
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Bowls SA purport to develop the game to the broader community. Viewed against the fact that school kids participate fully in other sport (rugby, cricket soccer, etc), where no fees are payable, what makes Bowls SA think that bowls is an attractive alternative? Debrah suggests that clubs and districts waiver/reduce fees. Sorry but I don’t buy this. If Bowls SA will not lead the way, why should they expect Clubs and Districts to do so? Consider that this small incentive would cost Bowls SA nothing, as these people might otherwise not become active bowlers. I am not suggesting that the waver of fees and similar initiatives would see people flocking to our greens, but it would certainly provide an alternative to the silly red card concept. It would also add real substance to that last section of their vision “…Communities will support and embrace us”.
Thank you for your excellent coverage of bowls, via your column and other forums. In a sport that is so starved of info, this does much to fill the void.
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The card itself carries no rights or obligations. All it says is that the holder of the card is involved in the development of the sport as a learner/scholar. The card is to be issued to any junior person who is playing in social type games and is not a member of a club. Once they start taking part in club games and competitions they automatically become liable to become full members of the club and as such are responsible to Bowls South Africa for the payment of their full subscriptions.”
Bowls SA purport to develop the game to the broader community. Viewed against the fact that school kids participate fully in other sport (rugby, cricket soccer, etc), where no fees are payable, what makes Bowls SA think that bowls is an attractive alternative? Debrah suggests that clubs and districts waiver/reduce fees. Sorry but I don’t buy this. If Bowls SA will not lead the way, why should they expect Clubs and Districts to do so? Consider that this small incentive would cost Bowls SA nothing, as these people might otherwise not become active bowlers. I am not suggesting that the waver of fees and similar initiatives would see people flocking to our greens, but it would certainly provide an alternative to the silly red card concept. It would also add real substance to that last section of their vision “…Communities will support and embrace us”.
Thank you for your excellent coverage of bowls, via your column and other forums. In a sport that is so starved of info, this does much to fill the void.