This is exactly what needs to happen, but the large schools are completely content on having some conference success and making the playoffs. Post-season success doesn't seem to be as high of a priority.
I think so. And AD's like having a set schedule and not having to ride the phone to get a non-conference game.
I could ramble on forever about the state of the conference, especially the football and how it's gotten to this point, but I think a few things have really, really brought it down across the board.
1. This is an economics issue. I went to a Glenbard West playoff game last year and counted 15+ coaches on the side line coaching/charting plays/doing stats. Most of the suburban high schools that are strong programs have 20+ coaches on staff at all levels combined. Most of the Rockford schools I'd say are around 10-15. Not sure if there isn't enough booster money to pay the "volunteers," guys aren't interested, can't get off work. or what. Smaller budgets, less equipment, poorer facilities, harder to attract and retain top coaches, it all adds up. It's not one individual thing, its everything combined. Throw in the RPS205 discrimination lawsuit in the 90's as well.
2. Belvidere splitting. You've taken a 6-3 to 9-0 program on an annual basis that is now 2 schools that are 3-6 to 6-3. This then waters down everyone else's schedule. Instead of playing a solid belvidere team every year that is a game that's circled on your schedule, you know have a chance to beat 2 average teams. You then have then also taken away a non-conference game.
3. I don't think there's the same level of off-season commitment as the suburban schools. I don't think numbers are in the weight rooms winter/spring/summer. Is this an economic issue? Maybe? Some of these suburban powers have strength coaches that's a PE teacher getting an extra stipend to run lifts. I don't think that happens in Rockford. Do kids have to work a P-T job in Rockford to help mom/dad pay bills? Same goes with the Accelerations/EFT's/HEROH situations in the burbs', I can think of one in Rockford that's no where near the level of the 3 organizations I just listed.
