Winning should be the focus. We must keep a ladder so all can see it. We want to know who the best clubs are so we can enrol our kids there. Trophies are important but not participation trophies. Trophies that recognise winners is what competition is all about. Being the best and standing out from the crowd is what it’s all about and this is where you all have it wrong. ‘Winners are grinners’ are not just empty words. Kids who win are happier than kids who lose. What I would encourage you all to do is get your kid into the best possible club their ability will allow them to and when they get good enough get them to a better club. Is development important? You bet it is but it will happen a lot quicker when your kid is happy because they are in a winning team.

Please note: the above message is my own and is not endorsed by Newcastle Olympic in any way.