Viva Murillo!
It doesn't matter if you're a Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, Independent or Whig: Everyone knows that we're spending a lot of money. You might think it's with good reason, or you might think it's a waste. But we're definitely shelling out more than we're taking in.
Now, we can do that -- for a while, at least. The country is able to spend money we don't have to do things we want to do now. But as the fantasy season approaches, you need to keep one thing in mind: Your fantasy team is not the United States of America.
That means you cannot spend money and wait for your grandchildren to pay for it. You can't over-extend yourself and deal with it later. When it comes to your leagues, it's pay as you go. I think now is the time to sit down and figure out your fantasy budget.
Yes, that includes how much money you can spend. And by "how much money you can spend" I mean how much money you can put in the commissioner's hand when the league fees are due. Do not make your league wait until week 1 (or later) to pay what you owe. If you can't pay it when it's due, then you can't afford it.
Now, I'm sure you know that, but many owners figure they've been in the league so long it doesn't matter. They'll get a pass until they can cough up the money. And they probably can, because the commissioner's job doesn't pay well enough to hire a collection agency. Nobody wants to kick out a long-time owner and good friend. So don't put them in that position. If you can't afford it, it's okay. Just say so. Don't plan to "figure it out" later. That's not a plan. That's being a jerk and hurting the league.
A budget also means learning to say "no" when another league has an opening. Yes, it's fun to draft. But unless you can come up with the money to play -- including a reasonable amount for transaction fees -- don't commit yourself to playing.
But here's the thing about budgeting: It also means budgeting your time. It seems like we're all getting busier: Work, family and other responsibilities rarely leave an abundance of free time for us to fill. It's important to carve out some time for yourself, and our hobby is a great way to make the NFL season that much more enjoyable.
But when you decide how many leagues you'll be joining, make sure you have enough of that other important resource -- time -- to commit to the league. It's usually much more than making the draft or auction. Can you field trade offers and make some of your own? Can you work the waiver wire regularly? Will you be following your team and managing it like you would in your favorite league? If you can't treat it like your main league, don't join. Because for some owners, it is their main league. It would be unfair for you to commit yourself to an obligation you cannot fulfill properly.
Again, this is stuff you already know. But the allure of joining another league and preparing for another draft is strong. It's fun. And after a long off-season, it's natural to want to get involved heavily. But there's no deficit spending in fantasy football. Just make sure that you can pay (on time) for the amount you want to play and you have the time to commit to every league you join. If you can't, no problem. But tell them now -- in July -- instead of late August. That way they can find a suitable replacement and everybody can enjoy the season.
You can reach Michael Murillo at vivamurillo@gmail.com.
- Comments [0]
Readers' Comments
Add a Comment
Already a registered user? Please sign in to add comments.
To add comments, you must become a registered user of our site. To register, please click here.
