ByDanny Caro, Danny Caro
David Wolff, the MSFL chairman, has warned that there will be serious repercussions if dissenting players and managers continue personal attacks on the his committee and referees.
In his 40th year at the helm, Wolff, 65, said: "Personal attacks are totally unacceptable. If people sign up for the rules they must accept them. The rules don't extend to attacks on individuals and referees. These must stop immediately.
"Players are still not accepting referee's decisions and the officials are getting upset. Some are looking to go elsewhere. If they walk away then there will be some serious issues.
"Some referees - and sadly Jewish ones - will not referee on our competition due to the continual questioning of decisions and abuse.
"It seems that we have built up a reputation for this and I really think that every one of you should take it on board and make an effort to improve. There is certainly dissent in non-Jewish football but it does not continue, especially to the next time the teams and referee meet. On the other hand, our levels of violence are low to non-existent so we do have many positive attributes."
The season has been disrupted by a combination of teams folding and bad weather. Wolff voiced concerns about defaulting teams being heavily fined and matches awarded. Overall, he maintains that "the league is healthy and has had enquiries from new teams for next season, which augers well".
He cites "teams getting older, bad weather, five-a-side football, costs and general apathy" as reasons for declining numbers but believes: "People will feel invigorated by the World Cup, and will be ready to start again next season."
Wolff said that any rule changes for season 2010/11 would be discussed at the next League meeting in early July and be voted on at the AGM later that month.