Originally posted by Gotnoskills
I am way past the playing age for Footy, but have watched it for many years since my "retirement". Due to associations with players and former players, I have had the good fortune to be close to the playing and admin, action in the EDFL (A and B Grades), RDFL, and HDFL. Over the past 12 seasons I have attended many games at all these leagues.
EDFL A Grade is a high standard, but generally the lower teams over the past few years have struggled to provide really high quality Footy. By default A grade seconds would not match it with RDFL and HDFL Seniors. B Grade EDFL are generally not comparable to RDFL Seniors. This will vary from year to year depending on which club pays good money to attract class players in A grade, with the resultant positives for B grade.
RDFL is a good standard and is improving year by year. Sponsorship is becoming more widespread and focussed on GF's and Premierships, which, after all, is what intensifies interest at a club.
2010 promises to be a good year for the RDFL. Ignore the rubbish and rediculous comments posted on this thread surrounding what ex AFL Players may be paid, instead hope your team has one of them on board.
Watched the RDFL and HDFL GF's this year. Have to say the latter had more intensity, demonstrated fitness, and commitment, than the former. They were both good to watch though.
What we are after is the best standard of football available irrespective of who we support or who is paying, or not paying players. You can have the best forward in the league, but you need to provide them with supply, and have a defence that can deny the opposition scoring opportunities. The reverse applies.
When a team starts training is less relevant than the quality and intensity before and during the season.
Way to much common sense and football knowledge to be on this thread