The Big AGM 2
By Clarence Parker
February 3 2009
Someone who was there as well providing a differnt view of what was said and how it should be taken. Thanks Clarence. Enjoy this one as well everyone.
February 3 2009
Someone who was there as well providing a differnt view of what was said and how it should be taken. Thanks Clarence. Enjoy this one as well everyone.
Grockle, rather belatedly, I thank you for the report of the AGM, which took place last week. I was also present, and I think that you have given a very good account of what transpired.
However, my interpretation of the manner in which some things were said may differ somewhat to yours. Should that be the case, then we shall just have to differ.
Of course, as has been the case now for many years, the officials at the top table were ready and prepared for most of the questions that were asked. In this respect, Richard Gould was determined that there should be no follow – up from the questioner on any question asked; in other words, my interpretation of his performance was:- “I have given an answer – you may not like it, but shut up anyway.”
On the first question asked about Ian Blackwell, he gave a rehearsed and brief reply, followed in the same breath by stating “Next Question.” On another question asked about Ian Blackwell, he brusquely informed the member that he wasn’t there to make a speech, and therefore could he put the point that he was trying to make in the form of a question? On yet another question, he cut in before the member had had an opportunity to finish his question. It was frankly, in my opinion, a performance that showed a great deal of contempt and disrespect for the membership as a whole, and was summed up perfectly by the member sitting next to me that night, who said - “his arrogance is beyond belief.” That is a statement that on the night I found difficult to argue with. I intend to write to the Club in order to make my feelings known, but I shall not be holding my breath awaiting an apologetic reply.
Brian Rose is a man who invariably hangs his head low, and I was watching his body language particularly when the questions were asked about Ian Blackwell. As I have said, Richard Gould almost contemptuously brushed them aside, and Brian Rose’s response was to give a wide and prolonged smirk after this had been done. There can be no doubt that Rose will shed no tears over the absence of Ian Blackwell from the Somerset team.
There was also a question about the Club’s rules concerning the notification to members of the Area AGM’s. I didn’t receive a notification either in respect of my area’s meeting. I wonder if the member who raised the point about a lack of man - management concerning the players, shares my view that Somerset has always had the reputation of being a poor employer, going back to the days of Harold Gimblett and maybe even before that?
There was as usual a lot of spin, but Andrew Nash gave a good showing in delivering his Chairman’s report, and showed a much less aggressive and pompous style to that of his predecessor, Giles Clarke.
David Gabbitass (Vice Chairman) presided over the meeting in the absence, for the second year running, of Club President Roy Kerslake, whom it appears has purchased a property in Australia and intends to live there for part of each year. How much longer is his spell of Presidency, I wonder?
Much was made of the four young players who will be taken onto the staff this coming season. I wish them all (each and every one of them) well, but I cannot personally get too excited about it. The gap between County Second Eleven and First Team cricket is huge enough, but the gap between School and / or England Representative Elevens and First Team cricket is, I would suggest, massive. Sadly, far too many youngsters fail to make the transition, not only in Somerset I hasten to add. Isn’t the much - heralded Academy system something of a failure? How many intakes to the Academy have secured a county contract, and how many have pushed on to a successful first – class career?
I digress, back to the AGM, and the one cameo performance that really surprised me. Near to the end of the meeting, which by that time had been going for about an hour and a half, Andy Hurry was asked by Richard Gould to give his opinion as Head Coach on a particular point as far as playing results were concerned. ‘Sarge’ (as he had been referred to throughout the evening by Andy Nash, Rose and Gould) stepped up to the lectern to speak for the first time. He looked very tense and ill at ease, when he said what Grockle has reported, – i.e. “We are a strong club and people don't want that feeling again. The players have thought about it and brought in a sports psychologist for those who want to use it. The players need to know the supporters are behind them. Get behind them and believe that they can do it. The messages get back to the squad and it eats at them. So give them some positivity.”
One member, who sounded from a distance very much like ‘Tractor’ (although I could not see him) clapped and gave Hurry some verbal support. Brian Rose then made a one-line response to say that he had full confidence in ‘Sarge’ Hurry. This was all rather strange, because up to that point nobody from the floor had mentioned ‘Sarge’ Hurry or the club’s coaching policy come to think of it, but he definitely appeared to be emotionally charged and rattled. I am afraid that his perceived attack on the supporters annoyed me.
Is ‘Sarge’ Hurry now blaming the members and supporters for failing to give the players enough support, which “got through to them” at the final hurdle? Was there not a large crowd at Taunton doing just that for the final game against Lancashire? Are not Somerset supporters extremely loyal to their team, both at home and away? Or was he (as I suspect) making a veiled snipe at some of the comments that have appeared here on ‘Grockles’? Where else would he have gathered the impression that supporters were not behind the team? I, for one, would be interested to know. In his position, I would apportion blame on many things and some individual members of the playing staff, before I turn against the members and supporters. What any player or other employee should recognise, is that if it were not for such members and supporters, there would be no Somerset CCC. Unfortunately, this point was not recognised by club officials at the AGM.
I am aware that in the past there have been some questions raised on here about whether or not a Head Coach at a County Cricket Club should ideally have experienced, at the very minimum, a career as a first – class professional cricketer.
‘Sarge’ Hurry may be an adequate or even a good coach. I don’t know, but I do know that he rose from the rank of the Club’s Fitness Trainer (which he had been working at for about four years) to that of Head Coach in 2006, after spending a few months coaching in Dubai. Also, it is in the public domain that Andy Hurry was sent to Australia to try to learn how to improve skills for Somerset’s one-day cricket. Our players are travelling all around the globe to get coaching and playing experience. Specialist coaches like Jimmy Cook et al are flying in to support Somerset’s coaching in particular fields – batting, bowling (fast and slow) and even wicket keeping. It beggars the question, is it all worthwhile and how much is it costing the loyal members and supporters?
My goodness, is it any wonder that players need the services of a sports psychologist?
I thought of Andy Hurry’s position at Somerset recently when the England dressing room split became public, and it became obvious that Kevin Pietersen had problems in accepting Peter Moores as England Coach partly, as was suggested in the media, on account of him not having played Test Cricket. Will there come a time (if it has not already happened) when a strong – minded Somerset cricketer will challenge Andy Hurry (not on his coaching credentials, which I am sure are exemplary but) on his lack of experience as a county cricketer? I wonder.
I would dearly like to remind Brian Rose (of all people), and to inform Andy Hurry, of a John Player League match against Hampshire, which took place at Taunton nearly 30 years ago in 1979. As a result of the now infamous declaration in the Benson and Hedges match at Worcester, the TCCB had just met and had decided to throw Somerset out of the competition. The whole British Press had poured buckets of vitriol over Somerset CCC, and Club Captain Brian Rose in particular. Even other county clubs had reported that their own players were going to shun Somerset players on and off the field of play. If ever a team was in Purdah, it was Somerset.
So what happened on that Sunday in June, 1979? I was there and, from talking before the game, I know that many members felt that the wrong decision had been made collectively by the team at Worcester; that they, as members of Somerset CCC, had been tarnished along with the team, and that the TCCB had made the only decision possible under the circumstances to expel Somerset. Not all felt this way of course. There were those who felt that the decision to expel was unjust, in view of the fact that no rules had been broken.
Brian Rose won the toss, and put Hampshire in to bat. A huge crowd had turned up, and when Brian led his team out onto the field at the start of the match, the ground erupted. Almost everyone to a man rose to their feet to give their team a prolonged and tumultuous standing ovation. That, is an example of how Somerset fans and members get behind their team, and I firmly believe that would happen again today if such circumstances permitted. I will never forget that day; no doubt along with a good many others. Somerset were spurred on by the crowd to win that game, and I have always believed that the events of that day were indeed the catalyst which led to Somerset winning the first two trophies in their 104 year history later that year. I am of course referring to the Gillette Cup and the John Player League trophy.
I can almost anticipate some contributors here saying, “That’s all history, mate.” Well, so is Ian Blackwell history. So are last Saturday’s football results history, as are the 2005 Ashes win and even what we all did yesterday. It’s just that some bits of history are more relevant than others, even after a long time has elapsed.
I will be fully behind the team in 2009, though I don’t get to watch much cricket nowadays. But, I would suggest to Messrs. Rose, Langer, Hurry, Gould and others, that if you shout your mouth off too much at the start of a season as to how the Club are the strongest that they have ever been, and are capable of winning everything, then you have to be prepared to take some of the flak which will undoubtedly come your way, when you fail miserably to achieve this. Somerset are always the strongest and best at the start of each season until, of course, the first ball of the season has been bowled. Again, when the last ball of the season has been bowled, and they still have not won anything then, for some mysterious reason, it would all appear to be down to the members and supporters.
So, come on Somerset. The true supporters are behind you, and always have been. We believe that you can do it. Let this message get back to the squad and then it’s up to them to do the rest.
And finally, I say to those gentlemen that I have referred to above, (because I know that they will read this) - “Listen to the members and supporters and treat them with dignity and respect, for they too have a right to be heard. Failure to do so will be at the Club’s peril.”
Clarence Parker.
However, my interpretation of the manner in which some things were said may differ somewhat to yours. Should that be the case, then we shall just have to differ.
Of course, as has been the case now for many years, the officials at the top table were ready and prepared for most of the questions that were asked. In this respect, Richard Gould was determined that there should be no follow – up from the questioner on any question asked; in other words, my interpretation of his performance was:- “I have given an answer – you may not like it, but shut up anyway.”
On the first question asked about Ian Blackwell, he gave a rehearsed and brief reply, followed in the same breath by stating “Next Question.” On another question asked about Ian Blackwell, he brusquely informed the member that he wasn’t there to make a speech, and therefore could he put the point that he was trying to make in the form of a question? On yet another question, he cut in before the member had had an opportunity to finish his question. It was frankly, in my opinion, a performance that showed a great deal of contempt and disrespect for the membership as a whole, and was summed up perfectly by the member sitting next to me that night, who said - “his arrogance is beyond belief.” That is a statement that on the night I found difficult to argue with. I intend to write to the Club in order to make my feelings known, but I shall not be holding my breath awaiting an apologetic reply.
Brian Rose is a man who invariably hangs his head low, and I was watching his body language particularly when the questions were asked about Ian Blackwell. As I have said, Richard Gould almost contemptuously brushed them aside, and Brian Rose’s response was to give a wide and prolonged smirk after this had been done. There can be no doubt that Rose will shed no tears over the absence of Ian Blackwell from the Somerset team.
There was also a question about the Club’s rules concerning the notification to members of the Area AGM’s. I didn’t receive a notification either in respect of my area’s meeting. I wonder if the member who raised the point about a lack of man - management concerning the players, shares my view that Somerset has always had the reputation of being a poor employer, going back to the days of Harold Gimblett and maybe even before that?
There was as usual a lot of spin, but Andrew Nash gave a good showing in delivering his Chairman’s report, and showed a much less aggressive and pompous style to that of his predecessor, Giles Clarke.
David Gabbitass (Vice Chairman) presided over the meeting in the absence, for the second year running, of Club President Roy Kerslake, whom it appears has purchased a property in Australia and intends to live there for part of each year. How much longer is his spell of Presidency, I wonder?
Much was made of the four young players who will be taken onto the staff this coming season. I wish them all (each and every one of them) well, but I cannot personally get too excited about it. The gap between County Second Eleven and First Team cricket is huge enough, but the gap between School and / or England Representative Elevens and First Team cricket is, I would suggest, massive. Sadly, far too many youngsters fail to make the transition, not only in Somerset I hasten to add. Isn’t the much - heralded Academy system something of a failure? How many intakes to the Academy have secured a county contract, and how many have pushed on to a successful first – class career?
I digress, back to the AGM, and the one cameo performance that really surprised me. Near to the end of the meeting, which by that time had been going for about an hour and a half, Andy Hurry was asked by Richard Gould to give his opinion as Head Coach on a particular point as far as playing results were concerned. ‘Sarge’ (as he had been referred to throughout the evening by Andy Nash, Rose and Gould) stepped up to the lectern to speak for the first time. He looked very tense and ill at ease, when he said what Grockle has reported, – i.e. “We are a strong club and people don't want that feeling again. The players have thought about it and brought in a sports psychologist for those who want to use it. The players need to know the supporters are behind them. Get behind them and believe that they can do it. The messages get back to the squad and it eats at them. So give them some positivity.”
One member, who sounded from a distance very much like ‘Tractor’ (although I could not see him) clapped and gave Hurry some verbal support. Brian Rose then made a one-line response to say that he had full confidence in ‘Sarge’ Hurry. This was all rather strange, because up to that point nobody from the floor had mentioned ‘Sarge’ Hurry or the club’s coaching policy come to think of it, but he definitely appeared to be emotionally charged and rattled. I am afraid that his perceived attack on the supporters annoyed me.
Is ‘Sarge’ Hurry now blaming the members and supporters for failing to give the players enough support, which “got through to them” at the final hurdle? Was there not a large crowd at Taunton doing just that for the final game against Lancashire? Are not Somerset supporters extremely loyal to their team, both at home and away? Or was he (as I suspect) making a veiled snipe at some of the comments that have appeared here on ‘Grockles’? Where else would he have gathered the impression that supporters were not behind the team? I, for one, would be interested to know. In his position, I would apportion blame on many things and some individual members of the playing staff, before I turn against the members and supporters. What any player or other employee should recognise, is that if it were not for such members and supporters, there would be no Somerset CCC. Unfortunately, this point was not recognised by club officials at the AGM.
I am aware that in the past there have been some questions raised on here about whether or not a Head Coach at a County Cricket Club should ideally have experienced, at the very minimum, a career as a first – class professional cricketer.
‘Sarge’ Hurry may be an adequate or even a good coach. I don’t know, but I do know that he rose from the rank of the Club’s Fitness Trainer (which he had been working at for about four years) to that of Head Coach in 2006, after spending a few months coaching in Dubai. Also, it is in the public domain that Andy Hurry was sent to Australia to try to learn how to improve skills for Somerset’s one-day cricket. Our players are travelling all around the globe to get coaching and playing experience. Specialist coaches like Jimmy Cook et al are flying in to support Somerset’s coaching in particular fields – batting, bowling (fast and slow) and even wicket keeping. It beggars the question, is it all worthwhile and how much is it costing the loyal members and supporters?
My goodness, is it any wonder that players need the services of a sports psychologist?
I thought of Andy Hurry’s position at Somerset recently when the England dressing room split became public, and it became obvious that Kevin Pietersen had problems in accepting Peter Moores as England Coach partly, as was suggested in the media, on account of him not having played Test Cricket. Will there come a time (if it has not already happened) when a strong – minded Somerset cricketer will challenge Andy Hurry (not on his coaching credentials, which I am sure are exemplary but) on his lack of experience as a county cricketer? I wonder.
I would dearly like to remind Brian Rose (of all people), and to inform Andy Hurry, of a John Player League match against Hampshire, which took place at Taunton nearly 30 years ago in 1979. As a result of the now infamous declaration in the Benson and Hedges match at Worcester, the TCCB had just met and had decided to throw Somerset out of the competition. The whole British Press had poured buckets of vitriol over Somerset CCC, and Club Captain Brian Rose in particular. Even other county clubs had reported that their own players were going to shun Somerset players on and off the field of play. If ever a team was in Purdah, it was Somerset.
So what happened on that Sunday in June, 1979? I was there and, from talking before the game, I know that many members felt that the wrong decision had been made collectively by the team at Worcester; that they, as members of Somerset CCC, had been tarnished along with the team, and that the TCCB had made the only decision possible under the circumstances to expel Somerset. Not all felt this way of course. There were those who felt that the decision to expel was unjust, in view of the fact that no rules had been broken.
Brian Rose won the toss, and put Hampshire in to bat. A huge crowd had turned up, and when Brian led his team out onto the field at the start of the match, the ground erupted. Almost everyone to a man rose to their feet to give their team a prolonged and tumultuous standing ovation. That, is an example of how Somerset fans and members get behind their team, and I firmly believe that would happen again today if such circumstances permitted. I will never forget that day; no doubt along with a good many others. Somerset were spurred on by the crowd to win that game, and I have always believed that the events of that day were indeed the catalyst which led to Somerset winning the first two trophies in their 104 year history later that year. I am of course referring to the Gillette Cup and the John Player League trophy.
I can almost anticipate some contributors here saying, “That’s all history, mate.” Well, so is Ian Blackwell history. So are last Saturday’s football results history, as are the 2005 Ashes win and even what we all did yesterday. It’s just that some bits of history are more relevant than others, even after a long time has elapsed.
I will be fully behind the team in 2009, though I don’t get to watch much cricket nowadays. But, I would suggest to Messrs. Rose, Langer, Hurry, Gould and others, that if you shout your mouth off too much at the start of a season as to how the Club are the strongest that they have ever been, and are capable of winning everything, then you have to be prepared to take some of the flak which will undoubtedly come your way, when you fail miserably to achieve this. Somerset are always the strongest and best at the start of each season until, of course, the first ball of the season has been bowled. Again, when the last ball of the season has been bowled, and they still have not won anything then, for some mysterious reason, it would all appear to be down to the members and supporters.
So, come on Somerset. The true supporters are behind you, and always have been. We believe that you can do it. Let this message get back to the squad and then it’s up to them to do the rest.
And finally, I say to those gentlemen that I have referred to above, (because I know that they will read this) - “Listen to the members and supporters and treat them with dignity and respect, for they too have a right to be heard. Failure to do so will be at the Club’s peril.”
Clarence Parker.
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The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockles.com (IP Logged)
Date: 03/02/2009 17:26
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:02:07:10:43:50 by Grockle.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:02:07:10:43:50 by Grockle.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 03/02/2009 17:44
Thanks for your take on the AGM and the issues related to it. As you say there are a couple of places where we probably differ in our interpretation of the feelings and comments made.
I agree that Richard Gould's response to the first IB question was a rehearsed one. Bit surprised you were not expecting that. It must have come up in every regional AGM he had been to so you surely expected them to be ready for a question at the main meeting.
I'd also say that the second follow up question from the gentleman who spoke about IB was as rehearsed and there was support in the room for Gouldy's comment about not turning it into a speech. It was a daft question you have to admit.
The other stuff is a matter of perception I think but I would put a case forward for Andy Hurry in the same way I have in the case of Mike Burns taking over the captaincy and even Kevin Shine taking over as Head Coach.
This wasn't a job he looked for and it wasn't as if there was anyone else clamouring to do it. Andy has never made any claims to have the experience of a first class cricketer and possibly that is why others have been brought in to help with that. I hope to see Keith Parsons in some role in the club this year if they have any sense (or he gets a better offer).
Is it worthwhile? Well we'll see.
I think Andy's comment about the support getting to the players was more to do with the uncertainty over IB at the end of the season than any perceived insult to the supporters as a whole. He saw more than we did and that was the fault of the club in not clearly communicating what was going on. We aren't going to get their side and some may be frustrated by that because I am being constantly being told that I "don't know the whole story" - well whose fault is that?
Our lot are generally approachable with the main support so I personally think your perception is incorrect.
But they can't get frustrated with us when it's their fault that we are asking questions they can no longer answer because they botched it up in the first place can they?
I agree that Richard Gould's response to the first IB question was a rehearsed one. Bit surprised you were not expecting that. It must have come up in every regional AGM he had been to so you surely expected them to be ready for a question at the main meeting.
I'd also say that the second follow up question from the gentleman who spoke about IB was as rehearsed and there was support in the room for Gouldy's comment about not turning it into a speech. It was a daft question you have to admit.
The other stuff is a matter of perception I think but I would put a case forward for Andy Hurry in the same way I have in the case of Mike Burns taking over the captaincy and even Kevin Shine taking over as Head Coach.
This wasn't a job he looked for and it wasn't as if there was anyone else clamouring to do it. Andy has never made any claims to have the experience of a first class cricketer and possibly that is why others have been brought in to help with that. I hope to see Keith Parsons in some role in the club this year if they have any sense (or he gets a better offer).
Is it worthwhile? Well we'll see.
I think Andy's comment about the support getting to the players was more to do with the uncertainty over IB at the end of the season than any perceived insult to the supporters as a whole. He saw more than we did and that was the fault of the club in not clearly communicating what was going on. We aren't going to get their side and some may be frustrated by that because I am being constantly being told that I "don't know the whole story" - well whose fault is that?
Our lot are generally approachable with the main support so I personally think your perception is incorrect.
But they can't get frustrated with us when it's their fault that we are asking questions they can no longer answer because they botched it up in the first place can they?
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: averageside (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 04:44
A great summing up of how the club is run Clarence.As an Umpire of many years Im reminded of an umpire colleague's words who once told the captain of the fielding team who were appealing, almost to a man, whenever the ball passed the bat or hit the pad. "This is a dictatorship not a democracy" . It certainly is a dictatorship at the county ground and not a members democracy anymore
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:02:04:13:45:14 by averageside.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:02:04:13:45:14 by averageside.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 07:14
So what has changed Average to create the situation you feel now exists?
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Exiled Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 07:24
A good question, Grockle. It would be useful to hear member's perceptions as to what might have changed. I agree with Averageside.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 10:03
The handling of the Blackwell affair has obviously upset a few and made them realise that no matter how hard you stamp your feet nothing will change.
I see no change in our leadership at all,apart from the fact that we are financially sound and have an excelllent coaching team.
Roll on the cricket.
I see no change in our leadership at all,apart from the fact that we are financially sound and have an excelllent coaching team.
Roll on the cricket.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: averageside (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 13:59
Members and supporters are expected to support team .. yes.No criticism is encouraged, despite the fact that the performances particularly in one day cricket were poor to be polite and lacked application and a failure of leadership on the field .The sheer audacity and cheek of the "coach" to makes reference to a feeling of lack of support shows a weakness on HIS efforts and the rest of the cricket management.
Reiterating my first posting. The club was never a pure members club under their control at committee level,but it was close. The attitude of the CE and others shows that they just want your money and support , your views are irrelavant and how dare you question our decisons. They havent had my membership fees for 2 years and unlikely to with the same approach, amongst other reasons fixture massacre being high on the list
Reiterating my first posting. The club was never a pure members club under their control at committee level,but it was close. The attitude of the CE and others shows that they just want your money and support , your views are irrelavant and how dare you question our decisons. They havent had my membership fees for 2 years and unlikely to with the same approach, amongst other reasons fixture massacre being high on the list
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 19:13
No criticism is discouraged either though to be fair Average. We are doing it now I would suggest.
The number of officials at area AGM's has increased in my time with the club. they may not give me the answers I'd like but at least they turn up to give them. Richard Gould was pretty dismissive of the suggestion at the AGM that officials should go back to the old system of only coming along when invited by the committee members - so that process seems to be pplanned to continue.
I would agree that the level of openess of the management is a worry. The channels for comment and reply are poor and rather than using ways to reduce the information given out I would want the club to do as much as they can to give the supporting public a clear view of what is happening.
Having said that, this is a two way system and we let them get away with stuff if we don't turn up to meetings and ask them questions that push them. The attendance at AGM's is woeful - even at the full meeting there were less than 700 people.
If you have the perception that the management don't appreciate their supporters then I would counter suggest that the management have a perception of an apathetic supporting public who are happy as long as there is 4 day cricket, free tea and bikkies and we don't get relegated.
If we want them to manage then maybe we need to push them into doing it more often perhaps rather than waiting until they revert to the good old days when everything was wonderful and there was full openess and democracy in Taunton.
I personally relate the increase in readership here to the lack of information there but it isn't increasing the numbers of regular posters - something common to all the cricket sites I know of.
The number of officials at area AGM's has increased in my time with the club. they may not give me the answers I'd like but at least they turn up to give them. Richard Gould was pretty dismissive of the suggestion at the AGM that officials should go back to the old system of only coming along when invited by the committee members - so that process seems to be pplanned to continue.
I would agree that the level of openess of the management is a worry. The channels for comment and reply are poor and rather than using ways to reduce the information given out I would want the club to do as much as they can to give the supporting public a clear view of what is happening.
Having said that, this is a two way system and we let them get away with stuff if we don't turn up to meetings and ask them questions that push them. The attendance at AGM's is woeful - even at the full meeting there were less than 700 people.
If you have the perception that the management don't appreciate their supporters then I would counter suggest that the management have a perception of an apathetic supporting public who are happy as long as there is 4 day cricket, free tea and bikkies and we don't get relegated.
If we want them to manage then maybe we need to push them into doing it more often perhaps rather than waiting until they revert to the good old days when everything was wonderful and there was full openess and democracy in Taunton.
I personally relate the increase in readership here to the lack of information there but it isn't increasing the numbers of regular posters - something common to all the cricket sites I know of.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Exiled Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 19:18
Point of order.
It's only the press and cttee that get free tea and biscuits.
It's only the press and cttee that get free tea and biscuits.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: BristolRob (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 19:34
For various reasons I'm unable to attend AGM's but when I take the trouble to write to the club asking questions I am not even given a reply let alone being told what is going on.
I have come to the conclusion that it's a waste of time and effort communicating with the club as it seems that their policy is to ignore it's members and carry on in their own way.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:02:04:19:35:46 by BristolRob .
I have come to the conclusion that it's a waste of time and effort communicating with the club as it seems that their policy is to ignore it's members and carry on in their own way.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:02:04:19:35:46 by BristolRob .
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 19:44
point of order on your point of order. The press don't get free bikkies and are rarely provided with cups to drink the coffee from etc. The hot water is free but the cofee rarely gets used for that reason - it's actually provided for the scorers and announcers and the press just get access cos the press box has the plugs.
I didn't say supporters got them but some are bothered by that fact to an inordinate degree. Don't read much in the press about that being a vitally important part of the game of cricket or their involvement in it.
I didn't say supporters got them but some are bothered by that fact to an inordinate degree. Don't read much in the press about that being a vitally important part of the game of cricket or their involvement in it.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 20:41
I know you've not had responses from the club BR and that is really not on.
Has anyone else ever had a reply to a question sen in to the present management at the club?
If so who did you contact to and how long did it take them to reply?
Was the reply useful?
Has anyone else ever had a reply to a question sen in to the present management at the club?
If so who did you contact to and how long did it take them to reply?
Was the reply useful?
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Exiled Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 21:07
Grockle, that was a very long post to say absolutely nothing!
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 22:15
Well you'd be the expert on that Mr B - as most of your recent posts have been pointless maybe the answers should follow suit?
You said earlier that you agreed with Average. Any chance of ever getting a sensible post about why or will we just go back to the tea and bikkies, FTM and Giles pint posts that are your usual fare.
Not a problem but please don't expect sensible replies to faceitious posts.
You said earlier that you agreed with Average. Any chance of ever getting a sensible post about why or will we just go back to the tea and bikkies, FTM and Giles pint posts that are your usual fare.
Not a problem but please don't expect sensible replies to faceitious posts.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 22:40
I had a reply and a swift one too regarding the disabled issue.
It may not have been what I wanted but at least they had the grace to acknowledge me.
If you want ignorant management I can point you in the direction of the fools that "run" a very famous rugby club.
They really couldn't give a damn what the supporters think.
This lot seem pretty decent in comparison.
I think there seems to be a difference of opinion as to the relationship between members/fans/management.
I expect very little from them,they run a business and they run it as they see fit.
I've been around the block enough times to realise that if I vote with my crutches and withdraw my support there'll always be somebody else taking my place.
As long as the money is coming in and everbody's relatively happy the good ship sails merrily on.
No complaints from me.
But my expectations are very low.
I love the cricket club and just want to watch cricket.
If we win it's a bonus.
If we don't then we can keep on dreaming and looking to the glory days around the corner.
Such is life.
It may not have been what I wanted but at least they had the grace to acknowledge me.
If you want ignorant management I can point you in the direction of the fools that "run" a very famous rugby club.
They really couldn't give a damn what the supporters think.
This lot seem pretty decent in comparison.
I think there seems to be a difference of opinion as to the relationship between members/fans/management.
I expect very little from them,they run a business and they run it as they see fit.
I've been around the block enough times to realise that if I vote with my crutches and withdraw my support there'll always be somebody else taking my place.
As long as the money is coming in and everbody's relatively happy the good ship sails merrily on.
No complaints from me.
But my expectations are very low.
I love the cricket club and just want to watch cricket.
If we win it's a bonus.
If we don't then we can keep on dreaming and looking to the glory days around the corner.
Such is life.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Exiled Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 22:55
No chance, Grockle. I'll leave the sensible stuff to the rest of you. I'm happy eating the biscuits at FTM.
FTM could become the 19th hole of cricket.
Alternatively, we could look forward to a few pints on BJ's balcony, via the lift, of course.
FTM could become the 19th hole of cricket.
Alternatively, we could look forward to a few pints on BJ's balcony, via the lift, of course.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/02/2009 23:03
Price Inelastic good BJ. If they put the prices up they'll still see people paying to join.
If enough people feel that the dictators have taken over then there is a thing called an extraordinary GM still on the books as far as I know but I would suggest that it will have to get an awful lot worse before the support would be present to push for one of them.
However, if enough members complain then activity will increase. So people, if you're not happy then let the management know but you'll have to do it in numbers and I'm not sure what it is that people want the management to change.
Up to now there seems to be a level of disquiet about how the Blackwell incident was dealt with. That seems to have coloured views of;
Justin as the captain
Andy Hurry as the coach and a friend of supporters
Brian Rose as the Director of Cricket
Richard Gould as the Chief Executive
But not Ian as a player - it seems to be assumed that he had no part in all this, was the only key to our success, our future captain and a resource we could not afford to lose
Well Justin can only do what needs doing on the pitch and if he does his job then Andy must have been involved and Brian must have done something right.
That leaves Richard - if people don't answer queries and questions then he should be contacted and if he doesn't reply then you should bug the hell out of him until he does. He is here to serve the membership as well as the club and should be reminded of that if people feel that it isn't happening
Ian has to prove himself elsewhere and we have to work without him
We'll know little until about the middle of May and that is when any action should be taken. Give them enough time to show a commitment or enough rope to hang themselves with.
Until then irresepctvie of your personal views there seems only one action to take if you are going to support Somerset next season and thats.........
I would also humbly suggest that it should include the game against Durham
If enough people feel that the dictators have taken over then there is a thing called an extraordinary GM still on the books as far as I know but I would suggest that it will have to get an awful lot worse before the support would be present to push for one of them.
However, if enough members complain then activity will increase. So people, if you're not happy then let the management know but you'll have to do it in numbers and I'm not sure what it is that people want the management to change.
Up to now there seems to be a level of disquiet about how the Blackwell incident was dealt with. That seems to have coloured views of;
Justin as the captain
Andy Hurry as the coach and a friend of supporters
Brian Rose as the Director of Cricket
Richard Gould as the Chief Executive
But not Ian as a player - it seems to be assumed that he had no part in all this, was the only key to our success, our future captain and a resource we could not afford to lose
Well Justin can only do what needs doing on the pitch and if he does his job then Andy must have been involved and Brian must have done something right.
That leaves Richard - if people don't answer queries and questions then he should be contacted and if he doesn't reply then you should bug the hell out of him until he does. He is here to serve the membership as well as the club and should be reminded of that if people feel that it isn't happening
Ian has to prove himself elsewhere and we have to work without him
We'll know little until about the middle of May and that is when any action should be taken. Give them enough time to show a commitment or enough rope to hang themselves with.
Until then irresepctvie of your personal views there seems only one action to take if you are going to support Somerset next season and thats.........
I would also humbly suggest that it should include the game against Durham
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Congar (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 05:57
I am not particularly a fan of one day cricket but I recognise that this is important to the financial sustainability of the Club and is very important to many supporters.
Our record in the one day competitions last year was woeful but then we have a captain who has not demonstrated any particular affection or ability in that form of the game. BR and AH have to take responsibility for that poor performance as well, according to your argument.
Oh, we have also let go our best exponent of that form of cricket, so what, STWD, (Somerset Till We Die)!
Our record in the one day competitions last year was woeful but then we have a captain who has not demonstrated any particular affection or ability in that form of the game. BR and AH have to take responsibility for that poor performance as well, according to your argument.
Oh, we have also let go our best exponent of that form of cricket, so what, STWD, (Somerset Till We Die)!
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Exiled Tim (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 07:49
I didn't watch much championship cricket, last season, so I'm unable to comment, fairly, but I saw a lot of the 1 day stuff, both home and away, albeit some on TV. We mostly played pretty poor cricket, not helped by the pretty awful weather, but I feel the club have used the early season success in the 4 day game to gloss over the cracks in the other stuff.
Some of the captain's decions were bizarre, at best. I hope he's learned from those mistakes, or it could be a long and bumpy road, again.
I shall be supporting Somerset and Blackie, the latter because he's a great bloke, with a lovely family and one doesn't stop supporting and enjoying someone's skill, just because they don't fit in. Blackie was one of the few players who would always have time to chat with the supporters - a superstar with his feet on the ground.
Some of the captain's decions were bizarre, at best. I hope he's learned from those mistakes, or it could be a long and bumpy road, again.
I shall be supporting Somerset and Blackie, the latter because he's a great bloke, with a lovely family and one doesn't stop supporting and enjoying someone's skill, just because they don't fit in. Blackie was one of the few players who would always have time to chat with the supporters - a superstar with his feet on the ground.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 12:25
No argument from me about the one day stuff gentlemen and yes it is a problem for all areas of the cricketing management. They've accepted that and Rosey has also said his is the final responsibility.
Ian isn't here - with our squad we shouldn't miss his batting. The explosive aspect of his game was stunning and a joy to watch. But can someone please tell me the last game we saw it in and it won us the match? We shold not be relying on Ian, coming in at number 5 or 6 to keep us in a game. It should be tied up by Trescothick, Langer, de Bruyn, Kieswetter, Trego, Hildreth, Edwards
I think we'll miss his bowling because I presently don't rate any of our slow bowlers to be tight and take 50 wickets. But to be fair, although Ian tied up sides he didn't take 50 wickets either. We need a wicket taking spinner in the side. We did last year and we do this year. It wasn't Ian and it won't be Ian. It might not be Mike Munday but it needs to be somebody and it's a major error inmy mind that we didn't go after a name to bolster us while MM gets his act together or doesn't.
There are questions that need answering about our performances and there are people in place who accept it's their job. Let's see how it goes I can't see what else you can expect. They aren't going to wear sackcloth and ashes because Ian has moved onand it's only a personal opinion that they should
Ian isn't here - with our squad we shouldn't miss his batting. The explosive aspect of his game was stunning and a joy to watch. But can someone please tell me the last game we saw it in and it won us the match? We shold not be relying on Ian, coming in at number 5 or 6 to keep us in a game. It should be tied up by Trescothick, Langer, de Bruyn, Kieswetter, Trego, Hildreth, Edwards
I think we'll miss his bowling because I presently don't rate any of our slow bowlers to be tight and take 50 wickets. But to be fair, although Ian tied up sides he didn't take 50 wickets either. We need a wicket taking spinner in the side. We did last year and we do this year. It wasn't Ian and it won't be Ian. It might not be Mike Munday but it needs to be somebody and it's a major error inmy mind that we didn't go after a name to bolster us while MM gets his act together or doesn't.
There are questions that need answering about our performances and there are people in place who accept it's their job. Let's see how it goes I can't see what else you can expect. They aren't going to wear sackcloth and ashes because Ian has moved onand it's only a personal opinion that they should
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa. (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 13:26
Maybe our second best slow bowler last season was Willoughby at Whitgift School.
LoL
Sixty-one Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-one Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Frome Exile (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 13:54
Yes, I heard the young lad showed some promise. 
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 13:57
And our "first best" slow bowler last year was Omari Banks if you simply go on stats!
Wish we had a 'Mushy' - Ahmed or Saqlian I'm not fussy.
Wish we had a 'Mushy' - Ahmed or Saqlian I'm not fussy.
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa. (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 14:39
What's Brian Langford doing these days?
LoL
Sixty-one Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-one Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: The Big AGM 2
Posted by: Sloop John B (IP Logged)
Date: 05/02/2009 14:43
Don't know if he could still 'turn his arm over'...but if he could he would be a very difficult chap to get away. Still holds that perfect record!
He lives in the Taunton area and is still a very nice chap.
He lives in the Taunton area and is still a very nice chap.
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