Youthful approach could boost league
A FRESH approach with the introduction of development or youth sides could be just what’s needed to give the ailing Stratford Alliance a boost.
That is the message from players and officials involved in the historic league which is once more looking to attract more teams ahead of the new season.
There are two divisions operating this season after a trial with one last year and there are calls for the current set-up to continue.
Nick Grey, secretary at FISSC who have a team in each of the divisions, said last season’s format was not a success.
He explained: “I was very vocal in making sure there were two divisions this time. Previously there was a vote 7-6 in favour of having a single division and that just didn’t work because there were basically two divisions anyway. The teams at the top would batter those at the bottom and you had a series of uncompetitive fixtures. The teams at the top didn’t want it and neither did the whipping boys down the bottom.
“I think going back to two divisions has worked. We lost a couple of teams in Inkberrow and Badsey but once we have a situation where we have multiple divisions then if teams do have a development or colts side then they will hopefully look at putting them in that lower division. I think it would be a struggle to attract clubs if it only was the one league.
“When I first started playing there were five divisions and it has gradually reduced to where we are now which is a shame really because it was nice to go to places like Bidford, Wickhamford, Henley and Tysoe – all around the county. But those teams have either moved to other leagues or shut down entirely and it’s a real shame. It might be because people just don’t want to play or that there’s a shortage of volunteers and people to run things.
“It is a friendly league and that is because you often know half a dozen players on the opposing side so you are less likely to go through the back of them because of that relationship.”
Andy Rogers has been involved in the league for 20 years and captained FISSC Reserves to victory over the FISSC first team in the semi-final of the Hospital Cup on Saturday.
He said: “It’s a great league and I’m told it’s one of the oldest in England if not the world. I think it needs to be freshened up a little, maybe bringing in some u18 sides – young lads who will progress and develop through the league.
“It’s sad because it has been going downhill for a few years. There used to be five leagues not so long ago and now we are scrapping to get two leagues.
“Since Covid, a lot of lads stopped playing and that’s not just in this league but in all sport. A friend of mine at Wellesbourne Cricket Club said the number of players there have dropped off a cliff and they have struggled. People seem to be prioritising other things rather than sport which is a shame.
“I love it and even though I’m getting on, I can’t see myself not playing because I enjoy the games and love the social scene with the lads. It’s good because everyone knows each other and rivalries form. I started playing in the Stratford Alliance when I was 17 and have had some great times.”
The all-FISSC cup tie went to penalties after a goalless draw and it was Reserves keeper Daniel Tatar who was the star, pulling off two penalty saves to guide his team into the final at the end of the season.
Rogers added: “I played for them [FISSC] last season and have dropped down into the Reserves as I’m 37 and getting on. It was good to captain the seconds and I don’t think they were expecting it”
