Should we change DNHL to a money league?

[Rob]

This came up in the Trade Deadline! thread and it's something I've been thinking about for a while.  Putting money on the line would change the dynamic of the league; encouraging activity, trades, effort, etc.  It would certainly make our trade deadline a little more interesting. 

This is not a change I would take lightly and I'd want to make sure we're all on the same page.  Right now I'm just gauging opinions on it.  What are your thoughts?

[SlackJack]

I'd like to caution against greed and remind people that if the league isn't fair, friendly, and fun, it will die. There is no reason to for a big pot, and it would be inherently unfair to crank the buy-in without resetting the entire league. We're pretty much guaranteed to be looking at the same contenders next year as this one, so buy-in from the lower ranked players almost amounts to charity.

With that said I'll reiterate that I am in favour of introducing a purse, and be clear that I do not want to re-set rosters. I am voting for a $10 buy-in with the express hope that it increases more active participation.

[Rob]

I'd like to caution against greed and remind people that if the league isn't fair, friendly, and fun, it will die. There is no reason to for a big pot, and it would be inherently unfair to crank the buy-in without resetting the entire league. We're pretty much guaranteed to be looking at the same contenders next year as this one, so buy-in from the lower ranked players almost amounts to charity.

With that said I'll reiterate that I am in favour of introducing a purse, and be clear that I do not want to re-set rosters. I am voting for a $10 buy-in with the express hope that it increases more active participation.

 

The reason I didn't propose this as a YES/NO question is because I figured the more votes for higher buy-ins tells me not only do those people agree, but they strongly agree.  I completely agree with you and I'm not interested in resetting the league ever.

[Rob]

Though I suppose a selection of "Strongly Disagree - Disagree - Agree - Strongly Agree" might have sufficed.

[papps]

I think this league is very competitive and doing just fine as a free league.  What difference would $5 to $10 per team make?  If you need money, get a job! 

[SlackJack]

I think this league is very competitive and doing just fine as a free league.  What difference would $5 to $10 per team make?  If you need money, get a job! 

Well exactly! It's NOT about money, it 's about participation. I'd say that the knowledge level of the league is high and very competitive in that regard, but the participation level could and should be improved. Having a small purse adds a bit of spice and a Ken Holland award makes sure that all GM's are in a position to win. If you don't have a job Papps, I could stake you.

[Rob]

I think this league is very competitive and doing just fine as a free league. 

I agree and I'm proud of what we've done as a free league.  Though, there's no denying we're not where we were at a couple years ago with overall activity and participation. Some of that is tied to the decline of ProFSL, for sure.  But we're also seeing interest decline from some of our most historically active members (like Tyler and Martin).  I do believe it would help.  But moreover, it would help me recruit better replacement GM's.  There's many good players out there that want to see money on the line to engage in such an in depth league.  And it definitely helps impress upon new members that they better do their best or they're throwing their money in the trash. 

I'll steer this ship until my fingers fall off.  Really.  I am excited to look back at our league history after 10 years, then 15, 20 years.  It might seem kinda pathetic, but I really like doing this - whether for money or for free.  But I have felt for a long time that money would help the overall health of the league.

[papps]

I disagree that money leads to more activity.  I've been in money leagues where there are a fair amount of owners that aren't that active.  I just don't think $20 will make a difference.  I think this is a very active league and chugging right along.

Slacky, if you want to pay my fee that would be cool! LOL 

[snugerud]

i have never been a big trader.  I trade with purpose only so money or no money , i dont foresee that changing too much for me.   From a simplistic view , i think the lack of activity comes from lack of compulsion to make a change.  I still think there is a lack of roster turnover year to year.  Ideally i think most teams should see a 30% roster turn over.  Higher roster turnover would drive more trade activity. especially at the top players. 

i am out of time, but will see if I can elaborate on what i mean later.

[Whomp]

I disagree that money leads to more activity.  I've been in money leagues where there are a fair amount of owners that aren't that active.  I just don't think $20 will make a difference.  I think this is a very active league and chugging right along.

Slacky, if you want to pay my fee that would be cool! LOL 

Do not see increased activity, but will be staying either way.