[spireitenag]

itsc, on 22 September 2016 - 08:09 PM, said:

You've quite rightly pointed that out but it is time to move on now, CFC FDS and PPP will in effect be no more now that the new regime will take over (FBT International Academy)

You can guarantee that Sir Rodney will run the operation as we all want it to be, there are still loads of questions to ask but time to move forward, you will get nothing by moving backwards now anyway.


The issue has always been the running of the FDS and I am sure that "the directors" of the PPP will hold up their hands and agree things were not done right, this way it will allow things to move forward for a change.

I've always believed the DC/PPP/Int Academy to be a brilliant idea and I really hope now it is run in a professional manner and flourishes to everyone's benefit.

It would however go a long way to putting all this to bed if CT and LS actually held their hands up and made some genuine apologies.

[Tha Knows...]

I'm more interested in how we made losses during record incomes

[Octopussy]

Hmm, interesting. I wish them well.

First time poster here. My son was at the now defunct Leeds base of the CFC DC. It seemed a good set up in the early days - the quality of coaching was good but things deteriorated over time. I still think the DC concept is good, helping to develop skills and providing a route into the academy or just providing better quality at grass roots level. Plenty of clubs do something along these lines.

A couple of years ago the concept of linking in to education was talked about. Still a good idea I think. But it never seemed to be delivered. Promises were not kept. The lads were just seen as an income stream.

Finally the thing becomes an "international" academy. I'll bet that doesn't come cheap and I can't help but think that it will draw in boys wishing to live the dream. But is it realistic? Just Google this and they seem to have grown up all over the place - and a lot look to have more impressive links.

So good luck, but I wouldn't sink my money into it.

[dim view]

Zorro, on 22 September 2016 - 04:06 PM, said:

I don't understand why others don't ask questions to any of the directors or CT personally. ...
Rob

...good idea mate. You couldn't use your contacts to set up a meeting could you?
Hang on a minute...

[Lincs Spireite]

dim view, on 22 September 2016 - 08:27 PM, said:

...good idea mate. You couldn't use your contacts to set up a meeting could you?
Hang on a minute...

You've forgot, his door is always open !!!

[moondog]

itsc, on 22 September 2016 - 08:32 PM, said:

I have to agree with you in most of that.

The FDS was a fantastic model, what you need is good quality coaching for kids that perhaps aren't at Academy level but could perhaps eventually make that step-up and I agree it helps kids at Grassroots level still play for their team but be part of the FDS, that was a big problem in the old days at CFC in fact it was non existent.

Education is a good idea but has been tried by a few in this area and failed, it seems that Matlock have been more successful of late but long term I think that could be a good, but perhaps not part of the new International Academy.

The club has to offer education as part of the package so the scholars (ex EU) can get visas

[Guest_freelander2_*]

itsc, on 22 September 2016 - 08:32 PM, said:

I have to agree with you in most of that.

The FDS was a fantastic model, what you need is good quality coaching for kids that perhaps aren't at Academy level but could perhaps eventually make that step-up and I agree it helps kids at Grassroots level still play for their team but be part of the FDS, that was a big problem in the old days at CFC in fact it was non existent.

Education is a good idea but has been tried by a few in this area and failed, it seems that Matlock have been more successful of late but long term I think that could be a good, but perhaps not part of the new International Academy.

From our conversations, you've always had reservations about what happens when an individual/company attempts to scale the model from a p/t operation to one that finds itself with full-time overheads to cover. In all of this, I've struggled to find a f/t model that covers its costs. Certainly the company that Sutcliffe was involved in that operated the centres at Rotherham and at a number of other clubs struggled, massively.

With regards to your earlier comment about the debt, I don't think people were too concerned about that. However, when staff, suppliers and parents find themselves in a position whereby they're out-of-pocket and financing the PPP, something had to give.

I suspect Junior Blues has a good reputation and demonstrates longevity because the committee don't BS the coaches, parents, etc. It's simple as far as I'm concerned, you have to be able to trust and rely on those who are involved.

This post has been edited by freelander2: 22 September 2016 - 09:04 PM

[The Black Triangle]

when this was first announced I thought it was a great idea. Local(ish) kids, being developed for the benefit of CFC, and those that don't make it become the next generation of fans. Imagine the likes of Lowton, Cahill and others from a little further afield. Playing the same way as kids, using the model that Cook had for the first team. I had high hopes for this and thought this could have been something that, with time and a little money within a few years could have really moved CFC forwards. Imagine a youth set up, with quality coaches playing football the right way from the under 10`s to the first team. If it found a player every couple of years it would be a win win. A mini Barcelona, in north Derbyshire.
As it is, the whole thing descended into farce, with scandal after scandal, being poorly run, poorly planned and poorly financed. it comes to something when things are so bad that lies and deception become the norm, and that hard working local families are being ripped off for kit bundles and have to threaten legal action for money owed. Those responsible for this shamefull episode are still in well paid positions, and have had no consequences to face.
It has now been handed over to another enterprise, although which bit, and how much is still open to interpretation. We are well rid of it. I doubt those responsible for the whole ugly episode will be brought to task, but again that seems to be the norm at chesterfield fc.

[Guest_freelander2_*]

itsc, on 22 September 2016 - 10:09 PM, said:

Why would you say that people are not concerned about nearly a million overspend compared to 77k, the mind boggles. As I've said to you already there were things that could have been done to ensure that was avoided but we are raking up old ground again.

With regards to my comment about people not being concerned about the debt, I was referring to the combined trading losses of CFCFDS.

You know my feelings on the IT subject, at length! Long term sponsors such as you and Central should have been involved. The subject was covered on here at the time and despite BH reading out a pre-prepared statement at the AGM stating that questions wouldn't be taken on the subject, it didn't stop you or I asking on the night.

This post has been edited by freelander2: 23 September 2016 - 05:47 AM

[DIFH]

Spire-Power, on 22 September 2016 - 08:17 PM, said:

I'm more interested in how we made losses during record incomes

Exactly.

[Zorro]

dim view, on 22 September 2016 - 08:27 PM, said:

...good idea mate. You couldn't use your contacts to set up a meeting could you?
Hang on a minute...

Very good Dave, should we only ask questions through a meeting?
Pick up the phone or email someone from the contact addresses that are given.
You're being pedantic and you know it. You are quite capable of holding a conversation with either CT or AC.

I tried to arrange the meeting, AC posted and said we would have a meeting (not try), the meeting was stalled because of what was taking place in the background. At the time of AC's post, it was not a done deal with the investors.

Talk to me next Tuesday but don't take the pee and ridicule my efforts.

Rob

[The Ghost of James Higgins]

Zorro, on 23 September 2016 - 10:39 AM, said:

Very good Dave, should we only ask questions through a meeting?
Pick up the phone or email someone from the contact addresses that are given.
You're being pedantic and you know it. You are quite capable of holding a conversation with either CT or AC.

I tried to arrange the meeting, AC posted and said we would have a meeting (not try), the meeting was stalled because of what was taking place in the background. At the time of AC's post, it was not a done deal with the investors.

Talk to me next Tuesday but don't take the pee and ridicule my efforts.

Rob

Good reply. Too many people moan, protest, "it's not good enough"....and say if only someone would complain, organise, do something. If people don't like something...take action! Don't wait for others.

[Les Ashmore]

starsky72, on 22 September 2016 - 03:48 PM, said:

And apparently Tendayi was a product of the development school, according to Les Ashmore...

Instead of reporting a Tiny part of the Conversation report it all, or None at all before you to try to ridicule someone

This post has been edited by Les Ashmore: 23 September 2016 - 11:40 AM

[Snowflake McBedwetter]

Les Ashmore, on 23 September 2016 - 11:24 AM, said:

Instead of reporting a Tiny part of the Conversation report it all, or None at all before you to try to ridicule someone

Did you say Tendayi was a 'product' of our development school or not?

If you did then you deserve to be ridiculed. If he is misrepresenting what you said you have a point, if he isn't then the rest of the conversation is irrelevant.

[dim view]

Zorro, on 23 September 2016 - 10:39 AM, said:

Very good Dave, should we only ask questions through a meeting?
Pick up the phone or email someone from the contact addresses that are given.
You're being pedantic and you know it. You are quite capable of holding a conversation with either CT or AC.

I tried to arrange the meeting, AC posted and said we would have a meeting (not try), the meeting was stalled because of what was taking place in the background. At the time of AC's post, it was not a done deal with the investors.

Talk to me next Tuesday but don't take the pee and ridicule my efforts.

Rob

nothing could be further from the truth. I applaud your efforts. I reserve my ridicule for the cowards who will not even talk to the local press, never mind me.

[Les Ashmore]

KevinArnottsGoldenBoot, on 23 September 2016 - 11:52 AM, said:

Did you say Tendayi was a 'product' of our development school or not?

If you did then you deserve to be ridiculed. If he is misrepresenting what you said you have a point, if he isn't then the rest of the conversation is irrelevant.

Go and look at the whole topic and then post

[hilly81]

Stuart Hutcheson Ha ha needing to be bailed out yet you insist on putting a positive spin on its creation

Unlike · Reply · 2 · Yesterday at 12:54pm

Michael Pearson great news.

Like · Reply · 1 · Yesterday at 3:08pm

Les Ashmore To say that Such as Tendayi Darikwa came from the venture is proof enough of it's value and let's hope for many more

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson I didn't realise Chris Turners troubled venture had been in operation since before 2010...

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Les Ashmore Well from the look of your posts mate you dont realise a few things, When Professionals like Sir Rodney Walker make a statement like " I am delighted to be associated with the new FBT International Academy and for it to have its home in Chesterfield. I...See More

Like · Reply · 1 · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson So Tendayi was a product of a venture than was incorporated years after he made his professional debut.....

Like · Reply · 22 hrs · Edited

Les Ashmore He came from Chesterfield mate that alone is enough for me, and I hope a lot more will but from inside the academy

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

John Stevenson Les Tendayi was a product of Notts county then CFC signed him 2010 on a pro contract then loaned him to Barrow.

Like · Reply · 1 · 22 hrs · Edited

Les Ashmore I am well aware of that John as you are also aware of me knowing

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

John Stevenson Well that's confusing you said he was a product of the academy

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson So why claim he was a product of this failed venture then??

Like · Reply · 1 · 22 hrs

Les Ashmore Because I wanted to Simples, Why did you try and ridicule my post? Probably because you wanted to

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson Ok Les, you win. You can't discuss certain subjects with some people I guess

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Les Ashmore Correct my Friend, I prefer to look at things positively, You decided to try to make fun of it and I cannot understand what pleasure some people get out of trying to ridicule somebody or something, It is a Fact that this is a fantastic move for Chester...See More

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

John Stevenson I do know you Les and you have always been fine with me but thought it was a genuine error on your part re TD

Like · Reply · 1 · 22 hrs · Edited

Stuart Hutcheson Theres having a positive outlook and there's being so blinkered that you can't see (or choose to ignore) the bigger picture.

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Les Ashmore Stuart Hutcheson there are non so blind as those who cannot see, try specsavers my friend

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson Oh I see plenty Les.

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Les Ashmore But only what you want to?

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson Ha ha ha that's priceless

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Les Ashmore Stuart Hutcheson you mention seeing the bigger picture, what's gone has gone end of, the bigger picture now if you can't see it is that a man and an organisation who cannot be ignored as being of very high standards is now a 50% owner of the academy and I can see nothing but giving a credible name to all it does 😀⚽️

Like · Reply · 21 hrs · Edited

Stuart Hutcheson Well I'll have to agree with you, it's certainly been lacking in credibility

Like · Reply · 21 hrs · Edited

Les Ashmore Thank you, so now you see what my original post was intended for, the past no matter which opinion or allegations you wish to follow is gone and will never return no matter what is done or said, so please let us concentrate on the future ⚽️⚽️👍

Like · Reply · 21 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson No, I only agreed that the whole debacle lacked credibility...

Like · Reply · 20 hrs

Les Ashmore Well contact Sir Rodney and tell him that

Like · Reply · 20 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson So you are happy with how the centre has been run??

Like · Reply · 20 hrs · Edited

Les Ashmore I care not of the past and look to the future

Like · Reply · 20 hrs

Les Ashmore If people can post things like were posted that is BUll***t I do not se any reason why I can't join them

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Stuart Hutcheson Oh dear, doesn't really make for a very strong argument though does it. Perhaps even makes you look ever so slightly silly even

Like · Reply · 1 · 22 hrs · Edited

Les Ashmore My sentiment precisely

Like · Reply · 22 hrs

Mark Hill The success of this kind of venture can only be measured in pros produced. So far it's zero. Let's judge its success in 5 years time. If it doesn't go bust.

Like · Reply · 17 hrs

Les Ashmore I wouldn't say that is totally true Mark as Curtiss Morrison, Derek Daly, are now pros with contracts, also from what I understand there are extremely High hopes for Iffy Ofoegbu, I saw him play a couple of times and he is extremely good in my opinion,...See More

Like · Reply · 6 hrs

Mark Hill I stand to be corrected, but Morrison and Daly both came through Mark Smiths academy and were nothing to do with the International Academy, PPP, CFDDSS or whatever it is called? It may be unlikely with the financial backing it now has but if the same person or people are sailing the ship that got it £77k in the red in the first place? Time will tell.

Like · Reply · 1 · 6 hrs

Les Ashmore I understand that all the staff are staying and also I am led to understand that internally the Academy is all the same ie no CFC Academy or PPP or International, I believe that the Financial side and Accounting are being carried out by Sir Rodneys Staff

Like · Reply · 6 hrs

Eric Lowe I find this Academy situation thing very complicated...one pro who we were close to started his road to playing professional football, playing in his school team .playing for his county then youth side for Leicester, then given pro terms reserve side then loans and finally a league player...

Like · Reply · 4 hrs

Les Ashmore I think it is a change of times Eric, That was back when pros didn't have or need Agents, Nowadays if they go through an Academy I think they have first claim to them so in effect have first claim on any fee, Maybe?

Like · Reply · 4 hrs