Well said Shagnasty....... I think it also needs to be pointed out simple simon, that recruits bring many things to a club - one being their football talents.....In the end does it really matter? Clubs in the country have to take risks to get players to keep the club going as there is getting less and less players in the country. Obviously some risks pay off and some dont and in this case not currently working..Yes the club helped but no promises were placed down. didnt crash or get a car, has his house which he pays rent for as stated before and as his job empolyment oppotunity arose and the club steered the employer his way then it was out of their hands. Plus his payments could be only per senior game? just think of where birchip would actually be if they didnt have these recruits..a hell of a lot worse off as they are now.
As for injuries and interleague..all clubs dont want their star players pullin on the boots as its a big risk for them and the player. as for only one birchip player pulling on the boots last year i think there wasnt that many chosen to begin with 4 was it maybe? could be mistaken. i think players find it as another oppotunity to have a prob well deserved rest. im all for interleague thou..good time to showcase your skill not only for yourself but also for the league and country footy.
But, I'm not sure if you realise this, country sporting clubs aren't solely about winning a flag, although this is important, sporting clubs are about providing opportunities for country people to play sport and interact in a postive way. The recruits, bring another level of social atmosphere to the club - locals get to meet new people and the recruits get to build new friendships. As an example, the Geelong boys are a crackin group! And have been involved in the club both on and off the field! Another example - Zac Holmes, moved to Birchip following playing with our club for a few years....Jay Fisher - regularly visiting Birchip..... Riley koops continues to travel the four hours back to his local club to play, despite his parents relocating to Geelong!
It's important to widen our blinkers here fellas - its not all about the holy grail - its about the journey on the way......
Oh and by the way - its Birchip-Watchem not just Birchip.... Thanks