Phone drafts are always a pain and thus Orlando 3 and the Sunday tri-city Super Draft League went longer than expected. Both could have been sped up a bit, but that happens in those situations. We at least avoided any phone auctions this year and it sure sounds like the auctions went very well in each city as we had solid auctioneers this year.
I also know we MUST have coffee on Saturday morning in Las Vegas as folks start milling into the Draft room at 8 a.m. We'll have that for football this year and definitely for baseball in 2009. Jill has learned her lesson there.
When it comes to food, this is an area that maybe can be improved. As everyone knows, I've never wanted to add an Events Fee to your entry fee as it's our responsibility to pay for hotel expenses and even offer a beverage or two during your 4 hour stay with us. Food at these convention places are a big, big expense and I've always felt that anyone who feels they can't make it through a four hour draft without something to eat should bring anything they want with them to the draft. We don't outlaw any cooler or food choice.
Now, if there is enough sentiment for us to provide food at the draft for an additional expense to your signup fee, I'll gladly go ahead with that. Trust me, it would lower our costs if we are spending more on food & beverage, and if our NFBC owners are willing to pay for it that's even better. Next year, if you want sandwiches ready for you in the middle of the room during your second break and you're willing to pay $25-$50 per person on top of your entry fee for this, I'll gladly look into the costs and have that waiting for you. Again, it won't hurt me at all. But if you feel that's just a wasted expense and you'd rather eat before you draft and then eat afterwards, then I'll leave it status quo.
I'm interested in your thoughts as I've heard some folks who wish we added food at the draft (which obviously would prolong the draft a bit, too). Give me your thoughts either way here and I'll consider all options.
As for football, those drafts are done in 2:15 or 2:30 at the most and I think providing food there just prolongs the obvious. I like the way the NFFC flows quickly for everyone and drinks are always available if anyone wants to mill around longer and look at the draft boards. Baseball, however, is almost twice as long and I could see a need for food if everyone agrees. But I won't add any additional expense if the majority doesn't want it.
Thanks all.
