Business Meeting and Decision Making--Classic
As some of you may know, Jeff Tobin has a new job and will not be able to run the BCC in 2014. I became involved in December, 2012 and set up a number of the tournaments this year. I also initiated a number of changes after talking with various circuit members, both past and present, in an effort to improve the circuit. I had planned to take over running the circuit in 2014.
However, participation has continued to decline and in 2013 hit its lowest level--ever. I was particularly disappointed in East Fork, but the decline has affected every single lake. These are the average number of teams in the tournaments since 2006:
2006 38
2007 36
2008 32
2009 31
2010 29
2011 21
2012 21
2013 15
With these numbers, the circuit may not be viable as it becomes increasingly difficult to attract sponsors. Sponsor money pays for the web site, brochures, prizes, and a good portion of the Classic pot. In addition, it's simply not worth the amount of effort it takes to put on these tournaments.
Given these facts, we will be considering a number of changes for 2014, including limiting the number of tournaments (perhaps to 5 with all 5 counting toward the points championship, 4 still required to qualify for the Classic), using volunteers as Tournament Coordinators, and eliminating the circuit entirely.
Given that only 15 teams qualified for the Classic, I wanted to give others who may have an interest in the circuit a chance to voice their thoughts. While I know, based on the number of views of forum messages, that many people like to read about the tournaments, and others have told me that they like the changes that have been made, this has not translated into increased participation--quite the opposite.
Constructive thoughts will be appreciated. However, please be civil....