by Honus355 » Tue Jan 09, 2007 6:14 pm
Proposing a three class system in theory is not a bad idea, even out the playing field for the class B schools that seem to get close but never get to state. However I am stronly opposed to a three class system because of its down falls and the tradition that is lost in a "new" class.
One of the downfalls of the system is the mix and match class that would be established. Like mentioned before, it would have the similar composition to the AA football class. However, after talking with an AD about the proposal I learned that in the Beulah proposal all of the class B private schools would be moved to the new class. Yes that would include Dickinson Trinity, but it would also include Williston Trinity Christian. Trying to compare Valley City to Fargo South is tough, but Valley City has always had a numbers disadvantage to Fargo South, now how about WTC against Valley City? Just unacceptable.
Another downfall of the system is the loss of tradition of the "B". The B is the baby of North Dakota. There are things in North Dakota that people don't mess with, construction season, home cooking, and the B. A third system would completely degrade the majesty of the B. It would be a success in getting different teams qualified for it, but there would be a missing story. Take for instance Epping in the mid-70s. The school closed shortly after the tournament and the school of maybe 25 students (9-12) came up one win short of dethroning the Hillsboro Borros. The same type of story will develop when Dickinson Trinity is upset in their Regional tournament, a David v. Goliath comparison. These kind of stories don't come around every year, but when they do the B becomes even more popular. A three class system would shatter this tradition.
The Beulah proposal comes at an interesting time. Beulah just moved back down to class B and in their first year they are proposing a third system...hm... I am just looking at the facts and the irony with their timing, but it is interesting to note that only one team goes to state out of their region (which includes Dix Trinity). However, it would make sense that in a class with 24 teams, more than one team per region would qualify for the tournament, because it would make most sense to have 4 regions of 6 teams or 2 of 12...either way, multiple teams would qualify.
Sorry that this got lengthy, but I just feel that North Dakota basketball is a fragile commodity. The proposed system ultimately does not change the problem that currently exists. If the system isn't flawless at it inception the ND public will not support the system and the proposal is far from flawless.