The Jeunesse Sportive de Guir (JS Guir) reserve team, based in Abadla (88 km from Béchar), concluded this season in the Center – West L2 championship with an unprecedented low: they not only finished last but also amassed a staggering “minus 31 points.” This record, unlikely to be surpassed, highlights the significant challenges faced by this southwestern club at both the reserve and senior levels, with the latter set to compete in the Inter-regions next season.
The JS Guir reserve team frequently forfeited matches, resulting in penalties imposed by the sports organization department of the National Amateur Football League (LNFA).
According to league regulations, each forfeiture incurs a 6-point deduction for the reserve team and a 1-point deduction for the senior team after three forfeitures.
JS Guir is not alone in facing such punitive measures; other clubs, including NA Hussein Dey and Olympique Médéa, have encountered similar fates.
The underlying causes of these sanctions are well-known and have persisted for years.
One of the primary issues is the excessive financial burden these reserve teams place on their clubs, despite substantial subsidies from state institutions.
The costs are multifaceted, including transportation, catering, compensation, and occasionally salaries, even though these teams hold amateur status.
These expenses significantly strain club budgets. Moreover, the coordination of reserve team schedules with senior team fixtures adds to the logistical and financial pressure, making reserve teams appear as a “harmful burden.”
Given this situation, it is crucial to address these challenges and find solutions ahead of the next season.
The L2 championship, as it stands, is arguably distorted due to these systemic issues.
Addressing this problem falls under the purview of the National Technical Directorate, which must develop strategies to alleviate the financial and logistical strains on clubs.
The Financial Strain on Clubs
Running a football club, particularly with reserve teams, involves significant costs.
Transportation and accommodation for away games, regular meals for players, and even basic compensations are recurring expenses that accumulate rapidly.
For amateur clubs, these costs are often insurmountable, leading to frequent forfeitures when funds run dry.
This not only affects the clubs financially but also impacts the integrity and competitiveness of the league.
The Impact on Player Development
Reserve teams are crucial for the development of young talent. They provide a platform for players to gain experience and improve their skills before transitioning to senior teams.
However, when clubs are unable to support these teams adequately, it hinders player development and disrupts the pathway for young athletes to reach their full potential.
This, in turn, weakens the overall standard of football within the league and the country.
The Role of the National Technical Directorate
The National Technical Directorate must take a proactive role in addressing these challenges.
This includes conducting a thorough review of the current system, engaging with club representatives to understand their specific needs, and implementing policies that provide sustainable support.
By prioritizing the financial and logistical health of clubs, the Directorate can help preserve the integrity of the L2 championship and ensure a more balanced and competitive league.
In conclusion, while the current state of reserve teams in Algerian football presents significant challenges, it also offers an opportunity for meaningful reform.
By addressing the financial and logistical burdens on clubs, the league can create a more supportive environment for player development and maintain the competitive integrity of the sport.
