The Central Midlands Alliance League Secretary Paul Vallis, yesterday issued the following email to all clubs, this now leaves uncertainty around all divisions winners, promotions and relegations.

This means that all promotions and relegations are now under the microscope as the League Management Committee have to review and identify the size of the problem, and more importantly what actions they take. How will this impact us?

Subject: Rule 18O

Colleagues,
Rule 18O of the 'Standard Code of Rules' (SCOR) states the following:

'A Player who has played for a team in the Premier Division or higher (NLS Step 6 or above) 20 times or more shall not in that Playing Season be eligible to play in a lower division except by permission of the Management Committee'.

It has become apparent over the last week or so that many secretaries have either forgotten about this rule or are unaware of it. The number of clubs being caught under this rule has been rising every day.

I realise for the majority of Division One and Division two teams, the season may be over, but those still with games to play, can I ask that for the last remaining fixtures that you check the playing history of players who play for your first team and especially players you may have dual signed and abide by this rule.

Rule 18O of the 'Standard Code of Rules' (SCOR) has significant implications for teams, particularly those in the promotion and relegation positions. Here are the key points:

1. Player Eligibility: A player who has participated in 20 or more matches for a team in the Premier Division or higher during the current playing season is not eligible to play in a lower division within the same season unless they have received permission from the Management Committee.

2. Team Compliance: Teams must ensure they are aware of and comply with this rule to avoid penalties. This means keeping track of player appearances and ensuring that players who meet the criteria are not fielded in the Premier Divisions, or Divisions One and two without the necessary permissions.

3. Impact on Team Strategy: This rule can affect team strategy, particularly towards the end of the season. Teams in all divisions must be cautious about fielding players who have played extensively in higher divisions, as this could lead to a fine and/or a possibly points reduction.

4. Administrative Responsibility: Secretaries and team administrators need to be vigilant about this rule. It appears that many secretaries have either forgotten or are unaware of this rule, leading to an increase in the number of clubs being caught under it.

5. End-of-Season Considerations: For teams still with games to play towards the end of the season, it is crucial to abide by this rule to avoid any last-minute issues that could affect their standings or eligibility.

Overall, Rule 18O is designed to maintain fair competition and ensure that teams do not gain an unfair advantage by fielding players who have predominantly played at a higher level during the season.

Kind Regards

Paul Vallis
Central Midlands Alliance League,
Vice Chairman & General League Secretary