[Treks1]

I ran my college solitaire league for many years and in a league for three years and it has been hard to go back. I do miss my statium, lights and the relaxing evenings at home in the basement, but games had real consequences, it really didn't matter who won or lost. I can say that if I didn't have a local league I may still be running my league....Time and travel has also been an issue as it takes me approximately 45 minutes to get to the site and you spend some dough on figures, bases and the like (my solitaire league was basically out-of the bag....)

But nothing compares to the excitement of coaching (albiet sometimes poorly) and hanging out with fellow coaches. To be honest I think I wasted some great years on my own, and I can't get them back. Playing in a league is almost intoxicating especially in our League where we keep pretty accurate stats, highlights and the like and we have that in the GREAT LAKES. I also had the chance to play with some fellas down in Columbus, Mid Ohio and met Chris, Frank, Andre and of course my man Bruce Watts and several other coahces in the Mid Ohio league. I had a great time. I think its a shame that people right in your community who know about your leagues won't particiapte. I could understand if it was a time or a financial issue.....

It appears that many just don't like competetion or are afraid of getting driven into the dirt for 12-16 weeks. How do you know if you don't play?
Or they don't like a rule or two..

BABIES......

C-mon. Don't like it, work to change them but play the game!!!!!

I think its unfortunate. Perhaps it speaks to a league where maybe there's too much emphasis on winning, but it also speaks to the personality of the coach. Its just a game. Hey I hate losing as much as anyone else but I will NEVER lose any sleep over it or let it get in the way of any friendships I have with other coaches. Guys drive hours just to play a game or two, and your 10 minutes away and won't play? C-Mon. Leagues aren't perfect and you may have a bad apple or two, but don't let what you hear or someone's reputation make up your mind about playing. Chances are what you may have heard about these coaches is not even true.

This is a great, I dare say the best hobby there is, and although you can go it alone, its an experience and felllowship best shared. Even if you can only get out for a few weeks.....

GET OUT THERE AND PLAY!!!