and had a ball. 
What was disappointing was the numbers that turned out, way below what I was expecting and I don't think it was because people didn't know about it. I'm sure there are lots of good valid excuses for not supporting this event i.e. Christmas period, Saturday night, financial etc.etc.etc. That said I also think there's a fair proportion that just couldn't be bothered.
I think the u15's team were the best represented on the night, well done Barry Martin for motivating your lads to attend. The rest of the teams were somewhat lacking.
Some of you are going to wonder why I'm having a gripe, well to be honest I felt really sorry for the people that organise these events, Lindsay inparticular. It doesn't matter whether there's 20 or 200 attending the work they have to put in is the same and should be supported. They don't do it for themselves but for the kids.
Second point is that from my understanding the tickets were subsidised to the tune of £1.50 per person
and if my conclusions are correct there was a huge loss on the night despite a reasonable raffle.
It's not the organisers that lose out here, once again it's going to be the kids. I'd like to see a balance sheet for the party just out of curiosity.
No amateur organisation whatever it is can afford to throw money away on loss making ventures like this when its own members can't support it. It surely has to be considered as to whether this party, particularly in its present format goes forward to next year. Times are hard and likely to get harder, sponsors are not likely to be as free giving as they have been so every penny will count. I'd love to hear other people's views particularly if you are one that didn't attend. Not to beat anyone with a big stick but to indicate what the general opinion is. If it's not wanted then you can save a lot of people a lot of work and save the club some money.
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
To all the teams, go for it lads in 2009.
Special thanks to all that run Saints, Coach's, Managers and Admin personnel, your efforts pay dividends. Just look at the leagues.
