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@EMM
I voted no. however, even if we decide to scrap seeding as a way of deciding teams, we don't have to scrap it entirely... I know for me that finding out where other people rank my ability gives me huge incentive to improve, on the flip side to this however, it does feel like it's set in stone once the results are in, so again to keep seeding, but not use it for tourneys may not be a bad idea. (would like to hear what others think of this)
Overall I think Birmingham polo as a scene has loads of room to improve...(and this should be seen as an exciting thing not a bad point) As Hyper noted throw-ins are by far the best way to improve individual skill as it allows players to compete with, and against people of varied ability, and again to mouch off Hyper's points we are talking about two seperate things here Birmingham Polo and Tournament Polo. If we have regular teams (that have the capacity to rotate) it shouldn't change the way we play in BHM sessions, except for when major tournaments are approaching...
Seeding and team creation both work in similar ways, if you are good, and show commitment, you will find your way into the better teams. The fundamental difference and the problem I have with seeding is the lack of capacity for alteration, For example with Danski, Hyper and Andy being collectively considered the top three, what would happen if for some reason seeding said that StuF Simple and Lucas (names picked at random) were the top three? Would we all agree that Danski, Hyper and andy shouldn't represent BHM in that tourney? even though in reality they would be stronger? It's a far-fetched idea, but It kind of works.
My suggestion, which has (might have) already been touched on would be for players to be able to choose their teams, then the teams be put into order of their ability (as teams). The best way to do this would be to play each other twice and see who gets the most points, then we could copy this format just before all major tournaments.
On the other points made about our improvement, I think sessions learning certain skills is a must, perhaps if someone thinks they are good at a particular thing (except playing with you left hand) then maybe give a 15 minute lesson about that skill, track stand and knowing when to come out of goal could be examples, or maybe long range shooting, or passing in front of a team mate? I think Sunday mornings would be better for this as on a Wednesday we may lose the court if we don't appear to be playing.
BHM will definitely improve if we keep talking about it. Nice idea setting this up Dan...you the man.