Hi JM, It's not that it's not what I want to hear...this is a public forum so you can write away:-)

Don't get me wrong, I have had my own run ins with the RCCC. 2 incidents in particular left me reeling for years. On the flip side, they have also been extremely supportive of me at other times and I can't fault how they have done that in recent years, so I have experienced their good side too.

I just think that what people feel about the RCCC needs to be a different thread from my original one, that's all.

Kelly movin tae Canada yes.

Regards

slipsliding ~ I disagree with you but not necessarily for the reason that you might think.There are some things that I agree with John about and some things that I disagree with him, but

RCCC, like many Sporting Organisations, in prone to become fat and idle unless one keeps nipping at its heels. If there were no one to keep it up to the mark, Curling would be in a parlous state. It is the JMs of this world, that have the necessary guts to stand and point out where the organisation is failing us, that we need to encourage.

Guys - If you want to continue to throw your RCCC toys from the pram can you create another thread for it, please?  GH has already asked that we get this back on topic, which is supposed to be ladies curling so I'll make an effort.

GH - I have to admit that the current situation in ladies curling is more than a little worrying.  We do have some very talented players, however there were only 8 entries in last years Scottish championships.  I also understand that you're not the only one taking a back seat this year, which could lead to even less entries next season.  To have a strong womens game we really do need to have more teams playing in our National championships.

I think someone really needs to look into why those who could be playing choose not to, or we could soon end up with only 4-6 teams.

I think the RCCC are aware of the problem facing the ladies game. I also believe with Nancy, they are addressing the issue. The game has at least 1 recognisable star, and she seems happy to bring curling to a wider female audience in our national media. This will help increase the number of younger girls wanting to play (perhaps). The new approach to the elite, podium, regional academy will definately help. I believe the new Regional Talent Pool will help increase female participation with a possible maximum of 4 girls from each of the  21 rinks in the country being eligeable to apply and have achievement goals set in place and actively encouraged to compete competitivly in Under 17, Under 21's etc. I think the new approach with Nancy Murdoch in charge will help to increase the number of girls taking up the sport, and taking it seriously.

Now if we could just get the Ladies Branch to dispense with the Under and Overs, and instead put their sponsership into a girls only Under 17's tournament, ( at under 17 level their is no girls only tournament) and an Under 21's international bonspiel we might get the team numbers on the increase again.

Maybe not very accessible, but it will be the cheapest ice, best value with all the amenities under one roof..... park you car when you arrive and not have to drive.....even more time to socialise.....is that not what its all about?
I thought Ladies Branch was all about fostering and encouraging the game at all levels at every opportunity.

I was just thinking that for a relaunch of an event, a central location such as Greenacres, Stirling or Murrayfield might encourage more participation.