On average the 'hierarchy' who maintain, and add running repairs to (as they believe are required) the game of Rugby League actually become a laughing stock - within the sporting world - at least every other season. And I'm being conservatively kind with that average calculation. The latest gaff, and I'm convinced it really is, may not as yet seem such a disastrous move - but give it time folks and yet again the RFL will need to apply the brakes and gather for yet another rethink.

What the blazes am I referring to? Many may be asking - however many more, that I know of, are already in full agreement that the scrapping of NFP Alliance football is a ridiculously insane move. Incidentally we were recently informed that Workington Town were one of just five NFP clubs that voted against giving Alliance the elbow. Yes just five with enough nous to envisage the danger of chopping off their back up squad.

It was quite noticeable last season that the clubs who finished down at the foot of the table did not run an Alliance team. Of course an argument could say that for the coming season that puts us all on the same footing - certainly all on the same slippery slope in my opinion.

Yet I personally cannot get it out of head that several players may well slog it out full of hope and commitment in training sessions but not often enough pull on a team shirt for their club. And yes I know that the Academy format is to include three under 21 players - it will still leave a vast void of inactivity for too many players. Am I right with this deduction? Can anyone out there put my worried mind at rest? Because I cannot see the sense, as yet, in what is primarily a cost cutting measure - but may in the long term leave the many clubs in further turmoil.

Now on a much happier note I must mention our Academy Presentation Evening. A great turnout, most of the Academy squad made it, and indeed the various other guests invited came along to show their respect for the Town youngsters who despite the play off calamities had another top season. Let's be honest you do not finish second in any league table without having been successful in most of your outings. The lads had obviously put that Barrow game behind them and were on top form again, and really enjoyed the Derwent Lounge bash. I have supplied web monkey Mike with a list of trophy winners and he is, as I write, doing the necessary to add them to the site (or maybe Robert is - Ed).

The future for the Town academy looks bright. Most of this years team can return again under the new age limit. I can see them potting the main trophy next season.

For me now it is a chance for me to put my feet up and soothe my aching back - many commented on Friday that my back problems seemed behind me, ha, ha, ha. But then on Saturday I had to pay the ultimate penalty for having so much fun, in that I could hardly walk without an accompanying shaft of pain.

So with the Academy seasons exploits now finally done and dusted I can switch off - until December - and reminisce with 'er indoors regarding the years pleasures (Hey watch it - I'm referring to my favourite tackle etc.).

However it can become very boring, just ask her, so to be honest I cannot wait for the next big kick off.
K.S.