It’s time to prepare for our second foray into Gecko territory for the annual Bali Masters 9’s tournament. Last year’s tour was a ripper, with plenty of footy highlights, memorable social activities and just a hell of a great weekend all round.
Our first task this year is to confirm which divisions we will be entering teams in. We are looking for players interested in playing in the 35+ division and the 47+ division.
Respond to Rick Sheldon () with your intention, including the division you are eligible to play in, so we can get our registrations completed. 47+ players can play in the 35+ side if they feel so inclined. (But obviously not vice versa).
To provide an idea of the weekend’s format, attached is last year’s program which contains the “Rules and Philosophy”. 2016 Masters Program Rules and Philosophy BW
Basically its nine a side on a soccer pitch, (3 backs, 3 midfielders, 3 forwards) using proper footy rules with matches consisting of 2 ten minute halves. Last year we played three qualifying games and one final. If we go all the way we would end up playing 6 or 7 games. The standard last year was surprisingly good. The minimum squad would be 12 players allowing 3 interchange. Maximum squad size is 18. We are fortunate to have a (self-appointed) coach in the highly decorated Gary Fisher, whose primary job is to make sure we all kick the right way, and we all understand the Blade’s Sabre Tooth Tigers theme song. (And also that the interchange bench functions properly so everybody gets a go).
As the tournament is over 3 days, we would need to leave Bangkok on the Thursday and return on the Monday (similar travel arrangements for those coming up from Australia and elsewhere).
Indicative costs would be something like:
Flights- B12,000 (Thai Airways price, some other airlines fly also)
Accommodation – B6,000 per room (twin share is an option)
Tigers Membership B2,000 (if not already a member)
Jumper – B900
Compulsory Insurance – B900
Registration fees (TBC and dependent upon numbers – the Thailand Tigers will subsidise)
These costs are obviously preliminary to give you an idea at this stage. We will be working on getting the best value in due course.
Let Rick know of your intentions by the 15 February (please also nominate “definite” or “tentative at this stage”).