Please understand that no one regretted this outcome more than my team and I did.
Here is my understanding of the situation (and Jim K., forgive me if my understanding of either the facts or rules is incorrect).
At game time, the Hornets had 5 players present. The Cougars had 11. I had told Jim K. that I would gladly loan him a player. Then I consented to loan him 2, notwithstanding that we were in no real position to do so.
With the umpires on the field, and with the potential addition of my two players, the Hornets were still only up to 7. It is my understanding that according to league rules, a team must begin a game with a minimum of 8 players.
So what was to be done?
If I made a mistake here, it was solely out of ignorance, and I apologize. I only wish someone had advised me of my alternatives. I, for one, wanted to play.
Allow me to add that when I arrived at the field, Jim K. advised me that the Hornets might have to forfeit. He did not appear to be particularly surprised when it happened.
Don't know what the book says, but I turn 43 in December and would gladly sub for anyone if I don't have a game in the 37's that night. Cell is 275-2780. Tommy Smith
One of the things we hear about is ..."we pay alot of money to play in this league".
This league should make a list of eligible players and their telephone numbers available so that when these situations occur, a coach can attempt to get players. The bulletin board is a good place to start, however coaches need telephone numbers to dial.
Really, does it matter what age the player is if it is a matter of playing a game or not??? Regardless, some paying players got screwed last night.
My cell number is 573-0043. If someone needs a player and I can help out, give me a call. I turn 42 this summer if that is an issue.
One other thing, I consider myself very fortunate that the CDMSBL exists, and by no means by my post do I mean to sound disrespectful of those who have kept this league together. It is merely a suggestion, that I raise again to avoid forfeits.
I think the bigger question is, how, this early in the season, does a team show up with only 5 players? Are things getting spread too thin with 4 divisions?
Add me to the list. I can sub most nights with on short notice. As long as I don't have a game of my own (or Wednesday's - my wife has her golf league on Wednesdys).
