The Chairman welcomed the Clubs and introduced the new President.
The President gave a few words to the delegates
The Chairman introduced the new Committee Member to the Clubs
League Structure
The Chairman discussed the Clubs that have left the League and how saddened the Committee was to have to lose these members of the League. He also informed the Clubs on the way the Committee had dealt with this situation.
Fixtures
The Fixtures Secretary explained the new Divisions and the reasoning behind the changes.
A discussion took place on if Sunday and Bank Holiday League games were an option. The general consensus from the floor told the Committee that this would not be a very good option as the Clubs would have difficulties in producing a full team due to player’s & their family commitments.
One Club stated that additional League games other than a Saturday would create duplicate games for them with their commitments in cup games and other competitions.
A suggestion was made on adding a further two Saturdays to the end of the season would be an option. This was counteracted by a Club who stated this would put additional pressure on ground staff.
One Club disagreed with the idea of 3 teams being relegated and 3 teams being promoted and stated that it should be kept as 2 up and 2 down.
It was suggested that the divisions should not be changed so if any further Clubs wish to join the League then changes do not have to be made again.
It was also stated that Clubs are not happy with the September start times; clubs struggle due to player’s having to work on a Saturday morning.
It was brought to the Leagues attention that juniors playing for the County are being encouraged to play with better second teams so youngsters are leaving Clubs.
Overseas Players
The Treasurer discussed the Rules regarding Overseas Players.
A discussion took place on the rule
It was suggested that overseas players should not be aloud in the League as it is stopping juniors getting a place in the teams.
A Club ask what the difference is in bringing in a County player instead of an Overseas. The standard is still the same.
One Club stated that they support the Overseas Players
Results, Reports & Laptop Scoring
Steve Kidd stated to the delegates that he was introducing EFax, this would resolve all problems with faxing result sheets in on a Saturday evening. He also stated that he is looking into changing the deadline for result sheets submission. Further information on this will be circulated to Clubs in the short future.
Laptop Scoring systems are being looked into as the benefits would be great for Clubs. This does instantly bring a few problems for Clubs would do not have power in their Score box.
Shortage of Umpires
The Chairman stated that Umpires have only being guaranteed for Premier League and 1st Division. Yet again a plea for Clubs to help out in this shortage was raised.
A discussion took place on the low expenses the Umpires receive and the hassles they get on the field are the main reasons for the shortage.
It was brought to the Leagues attention that the Umpires Course at Ossett CC may be too far for Umpires to travel too. The Treasurer stated that Umpires can attend any course closer to their homes.
It was stated that 8 clubs have not nominated umpires, again this is unacceptable.
Communications
The Minutes Secretary stated that email addresses are required for a speedier and more streamlined approach to circulation of minutes. Clubs were asked to submit email addresses ASAP.
The League Secretary stated that no further deadlines around the Christmas and New Year period were going to happen again. It was stated that lack of response from Clubs around this time was the main factor in this new rule.
Website
Steve Kidd stated that the Website was back in action and the message board had been reinstated. It was also stated that the league would not be held responsible for the content on the message board and are currently looking into ways to police this site.
It was stated that the league would start charging for advertisements on the site.
Discipline
The Chairman stated that the League was very happy with the behaviour of players during last season and hoped this would continue.
It was stated that Mr Barry Haigh would be taking up the Disciplinary role.
Registration
The Registration Secretary stated that the process in now underway.
There is a £5 transfer fee for in season’s transfers and the fee has to be paid before the player can play for the new team.
Overseas Players have to be registered with the ECB this year
Any Other Business
Mr Bill Scorah discussed the evening League and stated that it would commence on Tuesday 29th May with the final being held on the 10th July.
Birstall informed the Clubs that a 3 night 20/20 competition is being organised for August 14th to 16th. Support would be greatly received.
It was stated that the 4th April is the night for the Captains meeting with Umpires.
Meeting closed at 21.15.
Club Discussion Night