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Date:          Fri, 28 Nov 1997 11:03:34 +0000
Subject:       Student eligibility
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I'm glad that this discussion has finally begun, as I believe it was a 
very near-sighted rule to begin with (student players being limited to 
4/5 years experience), although done with the best intentions in mind.
Si wrote:

[At this point you may - or may not - be interested to know 
that 
a) a similar rule is used in college ultimate in the States

Which I think points out one of the great flaws in the rule. The sheer 
number of players in Britain is comparatively very small, and as such we 
should still be on a massive expansion-kick with the sport, and where 
better to start than at Uni? The idea of encouraging more new players 
and teams depends crucially on those with experience of playing. After 
all it is more likely they, if they have moved to a new University for 
post-graduate study, which does not have a team, to start one. What 
would then be said to this person, when wanting to compete with his/her 
new and inexperienced team in a student competition, even though they 
have become 'too experienced'?

My other point is linked with recognition of the sport as a serious one, 
within Universities. One way to gain more recognition, surely is in the 
awarding of Colours to players. I know that in Edinburgh Uni, to be 
eligible, a person must play all first team games for 3 years, which for 
someone beginning in their first year of a 4 year course, this is very 
unlikely. Those with more experience would stand a much greater chance 
of achieving this level of representation.

For those reading this, who don't know me, I am a 1st year PhD student 
in my 4th year of playing Ultimate, so next year if the rule goes ahead, 
will be ineligible to play Student competitions. Frankly I have felt let 
down by this rule, as I was wanting to compete and play for my 
University in all tournaments. Instead, if I want to do that now, I 
would have to take up another sport, where this rule is not in place.

Thanks for hopefully reading,

Wee Jim
Sneeeky's