In recent weeks it has become increasingly difficult to field the full number of teams each Saturday. This problem has been particularly noticeable in the mens section, and last week we were forced to cancel the 6th XI fixture. As a bit of background, since Christmas we are missing approximately 20 regular male players for a variety of reasons, but including school commitments, ski seasons and injury. This puts all our captains under increasing pressure to find sufficient numbers. It is also very evident in the lower XI's that availability drops for away fixtures, where home games are oversubscribed. Leagues cannot run in any sport if clubs only want to play at home.

Additionally cancelling fixtures deprives your team mates of a game and incurs fines from the league (with possible points deduction). You should also be aware that league rules do not allow anyone to play more than one game on a Saturday, irrespective of playing up or down the club.

This message is a plea to all players to;

1) Make yourself available for as many of the remaining fixtures as possible, regardless of match time or location

2) Advise your captain well in advance of any unavailability and don't cry off in the week and expect them to spend their time chasing round trying to get a team together.

3) Consider the amount of time and hard work that is put in throughout the season by a dedicated and committed few, arranging fixtures, booking pitches, organising umpires, ordering teas, communicating with opposition, completing teamsheets, writing match reports etc.

4) Make the job of being a captain enjoyable and appealing.

We do not want to be in a situation at the end of this season where we have to consider reducing the number of teams we enter into the leagues next year. I hope we can count on your support.

Will Champness
Lewes HC Chairman.