OFFSIDE, with OLIVER MILMAN

March 26th, 2010

THIS week has seen both the good and the bad side of Geelong soccer. Let's hope the ugly side doesn't make a belated appearance.

The GRFC's decision to support Corio Bay's junior program that will help dozens of children from refugee backgrounds take part in the sport is a truly positive sign not just for soccer in the region, but also for the community at large.

It shows that clubs, which have occasionally acted with self-interest in the past, can work together to support initiatives that are of benefit to sport and society.

If this was the first acid test of the new standing committee following the regional take-over by the FFV, then it has passed with flying colours.

Unfortunately, the other side of the coin has seen Geelong Rangers point the finger at local rivals Corio and Geelong SC over the vexed issue of player payments.

The facts of the case have yet to be determined, but it is disappointing to see local clubs taking this kind of action against each other.

Rangers felt it had no other option than to go to the FFV over what it sees as blatant rule breaches.

However, if any party can be judged to be guilty at this stage, it's the governing body. The FFV has set out rules on player payments, yet has done little to enforce or clarify them to clubs. It has drawn up regulations but complains that it is too hard to maintain them.

Due to its shoulder-shrugging on the issue, player payments are now understood to be rife throughout the leagues.

In an ideal world, the GRFC would step in to help solve such disputes. If the committee can do this, it would be elevated from a promising start to super hero status.

http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2010/03/26/158321_geelong_sports.html