ANALYSIS: It's hard to know what the answer is unless we know what the question is. Simple as that.
If we knew exactly why so many players and teams have dropped out it would be easier to stop. But we don’t.
There are indeed several factors, and as David Wolff correctly states, “no quick fixes”. Now is the time to act.
Several sensible suggestions were put forward at this week’s meeting, but they were predominantly short-term
solutions. There was no, as Raiders boss Rob Richman, described “lightbulb moment”. No overnight solution.
Yes we now have 32 teams compared to an all-time high of 65, including a plethora of multi-team clubs, but such comparisons don’t do anyone any favours. There was a growing sense of frustration as questions remained unanswered. How we arrest the decline is the key issue for me, before we focus on growing numbers. Consolidate what there is.
The current organising committee, all of whom operate on a voluntary basis, do a sterling job. But the same few people can only do so much. The league needs new energy and new ideas. A small task-force who want to move in the same direction.
Where people are in agreement is that youth football must be addressed — there is no organised Jewish soccer league for those aged 12 upwards.
We must also tap into the success stories from the league — Raiders, Hendon, Redbridge, Oakwood, FC Team and, of course, Lions — there are quite a few — and find out what they are doing right. Communication is key.