county trials
The trials were held on the 24th September 2006. 35 players from all over the county attended and returned forms which enabled us to up-date contact details providing a wide base of good reserves.
The trials started at 10:00 and finished at approx 14:45, unfortunately due to the lack of ladies the Mixed only ran though one round, but this was enough to conclude the team placings, based on the singles and level doubles games.
Players contested some hard fought games, set up by selection to assess standards, played to the new 'rally point scoring system', as this is the format of the 2006/07 ICC matches and tournaments.
Teams have been announced and selected players are now in the process of confirming their position. Selection has been looked at, not only on pure ability but also on commitment from the players as on many occasions last year the teams were let down by last minute player withdrawals and limited contact details for good reserves.
Hopefully this year the above issues will have been addressed and the teams can maintain solidarity.
Congratulations to all selected players and apologies to all who did not get selected, but be assured that abilities have been duly noted and contact details filed in the event of substitutions being required.
Anyone who did not return the form with their details listed will not be contacted, as this shows lack of commitment right from the start.
Links have now been established between the junior (DSBA) and the senior (DCBA) organisations, the U21 team is a good step forward to bridge the gap between U17's and the senior 3rd team, where standards are similar, juniors have been given preference for the third team. This year 7 juniors were selected for senior teams, this will hopefully be the foundation for Devon's future stars.
All selected players should study the fixtures for the entire year and advise their captains of any that cannot be attended at the earliest possible opportunity.
Wishing you all a successful 2006/07 season.
Dave Chick
2006 Trials Co-Ordinator