At the start of the season, we published a document outlining how the selection process would operate during the year. Shortly afterwards, two members of the Selection Committee stepped down for personal reasons. Since then, the committee has consisted of Neil McLean, Anne Truscott and Jim Greenfield.
We have continued to follow the principles set out in that document as closely as possible, with the aim of ensuring that everyone who puts their name down for games receives a fair share of opportunities to play.
Selection is not simply a matter of allocating names to games. Some members are stronger in particular positions, while others are better suited to certain formats of the game. We therefore try to balance fairness with the need to field competitive teams in each fixture.
One of the biggest challenges is the popularity of the Triples League. It is common to receive around 24 names for a match where only 12 players can be selected. Each rink needs a competent Skip who will respond effectively to the opposition. This leaves eight places, so we rotate those places as fairly as possible. Although not everyone can be selected every week, we work hard to ensure that most members are able to take part in a reasonable proportion of the fixtures.
Triples also presents other challenges. Each player delivers 54 bowls (58 with trial ends) compared with 42 in fours. This makes team balance particularly important.
To help ensure that selections are made fairly and consistently, we maintain a comprehensive spreadsheet recording every fixture, everyone who entered their name for selection, those who were selected, and the position they played. By reviewing this information regularly, we can monitor playing opportunities across the season and do our best to ensure that all members are treated fairly and consistently.
The average number of games players are picked for compared to the number they register for is 72%. When selecting for a game we use an alphabetical list of names so it doesn’t matter if you register first or last, although very occasionally we need to select a day or two early so don’t leave it to the very last minute! Similarly reserves are selected to suit the position that needs filling, so may not follow the order on the form.
If you would like to play more bowls there is a greater chance of being selected for friendlies than the leagues and you will often get to play on a more varied selection of greens.
If you have any questions please speak to Neil McLean, Ann Truscott or Jim Greenfield.