Accepting the realities of change

It is good to see that there continues to be changes in the way things are done in sports, especially at the schools’

level. Whilst everything is not honky dory with the manner of execution, it must be welcomed that the netball finals will be held this Saturday, November, 30, 2024 at the Kingstown Netball Centre. This is a paradigm shift from the normal weekday, namely, Thursday or Friday, as obtained in previous years.

Obviously, there was pushback from some quarters, even among key stakeholders. But what should be understood is that change is inevitable and accepting that is one of the biggest barriers confronting us.

Unfortunately, people in general, when something new is put forward, readily mount barriers, rather than search for ways in which it can work.

Such preconceived notions often cloud progress, reinforcing the status quo.

Nevertheless, organisers of such events have to regularly look at innovative ways of getting the fans into the venues. They should invariably run with their gut feelings and execute their plans irrespective to the opposition.

And, there are many instances where this holds good. One notable innovation was the hosting of the Inter-house Athletics championships on evenings.

The Campden Park Secondary School- Bethel High School- which was the first to do so, stuck to their initiative, and today other schools have follow-suited. Now, it may be a travesty if some institutions decide to go back to the old ways. As things evolve, and new ways are adopted to keep pace with the times, the authorities who are charged with the schools’ sports, namely Netball and Football, must come up with ways to have more competitive disciplines.

For too long, these two disciplines have been basically played in zones. Hence, the same schools, over the years, have been meeting one another.

Such repetitive meetings do not augur well for development, as the sameness is repeated year after year.

One can only conclude that we are having the various competitions simply for just ensuring that the mandates are carried out.

It is therefore predictable- the schools that will emerge from the zones. They cross in the quarter-finals, and advancements are made until a winner is determined.

Whilst one understands that there will be logistical challenges, efforts must be made to find a different format.

As we continue to attempt to improve sports overall in the country, new ways must be pursued as the tried and failed configurations have not yielded the results needed.

We love to copy other countries’ operations, and nothing is wrong with that; hence, it may be a best practice for us to have a two-tier system relative to Netball and Football.

In that system there will be relegation and promotion. Moreover, schools in both tiers are likely to be paired with others of similar quality and competence. We cannot go along with the disparities that have been forever with us. The gaps are reflected in the lopsided scores that are not good for the ears nor eyes.

With that being the case for a protracted period, the competitions often come alive at the quarter-finals and semi-final stages.

Hopefully, as the powers that be are seemingly opening up their thinking and getting in line with what works, that expedient consideration must be given to reconfiguring the stuck zone system.

Overall, and most significantly, improvements in skills are paramount rather than merely completing a tournament, giving out prizes and rewards. Doing something the same way over and over and expecting different results is tantamount to insanity, as one noted philosopher proffered.

The small steps that are made are commendable, but making those decisive and instructive leaps, are equally worthy.