National, yes they are for rookies. But you missed my point. The idea is to grow the game. Let's say that I live in the Detroit area and want to join your league. I am at my current experience level. If you don't let me use the passing sticks, I can't compete with just a running game. You have a huge advantage that you don't need, because you have years of experience, you are a vet. The score is gonna be huge in your favor. What fun is that for both of us? You really didn't prove anything beating me, because of my inability to have a complete game. But, if you would let passing sticks be used, I guarantee you it would be a much better game.
Here is the thing I don't think you get. Am I gonna keep on just using the passing sticks? No Way. WHY? Because I want to win, and to win, I have to have a passing game with the TDQ to get the advantages that it offers and be on the same level as you. Then the game will come down to coaching, tweaking, knowing my players, etc.
We don't need rookie leagues, we need rookies in our leagues to grow them. Don't turn the new guys away. Help them, encourage them. As someone has said, don't be macho, help the new guy compete.
I know that every new coach at the Mid America Melee had a huge amount of fun. Even the coaches that didn't win a game had a blast. Why? BECAUSE THEY COMPETED!!!!!!!! The cream rose to the top. Geno and Flynt were clearly the best and most experienced players there. They have several things in common. Great bases, they know what their players are going to do, they have a TDQ passing game so that they can pass to ANY receiver on the field, which is huge, and they were able to turn and burn. All the new coaches saw that. Passing Sticks will let you compete, but you won't get to the highest level unless you get a passing game.
Having said all of that, National, I respect your opinion, I just respectfully disagree. Doug
|