4NCL North 2013-14

[Mick Norris]

2 teams entered by Spirit of Atticus

We are trying to see if we have enough for a second Manticores team - touch and go at the moment, so if anyone with MCF connections wants to join, let us know ASAP

[David Grobler]

2 teams entered by Spirit of Atticus

We are trying to see if we have enough for a second Manticores team - touch and go at the moment, so if anyone with MCF connections wants to join, let us know ASAP

I went to Manchester once...does that count ?

[Roger de Coverly]

I went to Manchester once...does that count ?

Unlike ECF competitions, eligibility is whatever you want it to be. So if a Manchester run team stipulates players with Manchester connections, that's their rule, not the 4NCLs.

[MartinCarpenter]

Indeed Nice to see the Manticores even being in the position to consider this after the early year struggles.

I've definitely got the odd (slightly rusty!) link but I think the transport would get very messy.

[Mick Norris]

Indeed Nice to see the Manticores even being in the position to consider this after the early year struggles.

I've definitely got the odd (slightly rusty!) link but I think the transport would get very messy.

Rusty or not you would be very welcome, and transport could be sorted

[MartinCarpenter]

Thanks, you're all nice people and all but overall I think it'd feel a bit too odd to not be playing for Jorvik (Who have also struggled a bit for a fullish strength team.).

If I do play that is. I'm still not sure. If I was still in Manchester I suspect that I wouldn't because of the walking being so good. Not so ideal in winter from my current patch of the NE.

[David Robertson]

2 teams entered by Spirit of Atticus

As founder members, we're forever committed in principle to support the Northern League (4NCL 3N). And having shrugged off our disappointment at needing to recommit in practice too, we're keen to give it our best shot this coming season. All last year's squad have signed back in; and we're adding others too. Our initial task is to get a dozen SoA players sat down in front of each other for the first Saturday in Darlington.

In truth, we're quite looking forward to it. Two years in Div 2 were wonderful, and we'd like to return. But the SoA 'experience' has always been about more than just the chess. Alas, at Hinckley Island, there isn't a lot more: it's a pretty dreary part of the world. But 'oop North', the hotels are very fine, very varied; and we get to visit some pleasant parts of the country. Indeed some of our London-based players find this prospect quite attractive.

Only one thing makes me apprehensive. As SoA Grubmaster, I'm in charge of 'entertainments'. With two teams and travelling WAGs, we'll be quite a mob this year. I have to find restaurants that can cope with large parties. You may think that should be no problem. Maybe not. But size isn't everything: I make my decision based solely on the quality of the wine list. Some things must never change

[Jonathan Rogers]

you have WAGs?

[MartinCarpenter]

A scary thought Spoilt for choice round Darlington at least. Nothing especially stunning in the town itself I think but at 'worst' Durham/York are both pretty close.

[Andrew Bak]

Darlington is probably my favourite of the Div 3 North venues, great hotel and Darlington itself was a pretty fun night out!

[Mick Norris]

Cheddleton have entered 2 teams now (i.e. their second and third team), so there is potential to have a dozen teams, which would be great

[MartinCarpenter]

It is. Very nice to see the NW starting to produce a good number of teams too, because that was always what the competition really needed to get numbers up.

[Paul Robson]

At the moment I am intending 2 teams fron North East England ,but need to clarify with my players over coming weeks .

[Mick Norris]

That would be good - I gather we have until the end of September to decide

[Paul Dargan]

There's loads around Darlington ... especially if you have a car (which is likely). I'm sure the rest of the NE team(s) will also be happy to provide recommendations. Looking forward to the new season - let's see if we can get two (or more) teams back into Div 2 from 3N.

Paul