A strong junior structure does influence the make up of some clubs in this competition but Windsor's 40 junior teams had minimal impact on their premiership. The superb match day program indicates that but for a late substitution of Croft for Smith, Ben Stewart would have been the only Windsor junior in the 17.
As you might expect with players attracted to Sydney seeking a professional career, Windsor has plenty of players from Queensland, Country NSW, NZ, several other Penrith clubs and other Sydney districts.
Stewart played very well but I would say that the first tackle of the game, after which play was held up for 10 minutes, was the most influential factor in the result. It can only be hoped that the wonders of modern medicine can restore Charlie Farah's face but I suspect he will have no memory of his final moments in the sport.
The Bulls managed to score 2 tries in the first few minutes after half time to reduce the deficit to 22-16 but too many penalties and missed tackles meant there would be no reversal.
I am not convinced that a team without a strong junior base will have what it takes long term to be successful.
Sure you might win a few comps and stay in the finals race each year but throwing money at it each year to acheive those results does not make a good club.
JBC works on a points system as we all know and any club can go out and buy players but the junior low pointers are still the key.
Beside, who can honestly say that a team with players and officials and no supporters is a club.
On another note, I hope to see big Charlie Farah back on the field in 2009 whoever he plays for as I have only ever heard good things about the bloke and hope he recovers fast.
Erina pulling out of the comp is a blow but I have heard that The Entrance are quite happy to win the local A Grade undefeated so a return to the big league is out for them.
On Yatesy, I have heard that he has been offered a deal with Chester Hill and despite what Cabra4ever says, even though he is high points he is a good club man.
Maybe if he retires he could be offered the coaching job for JBC?
I have also heard that Beaumont is still pushing heavily to be voted onto the board for next year.
