Ramblings of a first season GM - Offseason edition

[JCarson 730]

Ramblings of a first season GM. 

 

Okay so you might be able to argue that I am done my first season now that the Mexico City Kings have been eliminated and are in the post season. On the other hand, I can argue that the calendar still says season 93 so technically it is still my first season as a GM. Either way I am still choosing to continue my series of Ramblings on my thoughts as a GM. 

This may be a controversial statement, but I believe it to be true. The Offseason sucks more as a GM than it does as a player. Here is my argument: 

 

First, the GM must admit that they have failed the team and the players. The GM role is to build a team that can compete and provides the opportunity for the players to achieve their full potential. Those that lose out early, or worse those teams that don’t even make the playoffs don’t allow their players that opportunity. 

 

Second, the GM duties during the offseason are a rollercoaster ride of activity. The offseason is an endless time of huge activity and waiting. Draft interviews, wait, Draft Pick Prep, wait, release waiver players for draft, adjust discord group, Draft, contact newly drafted players, potential free agency, start player development training again, build lines, build team cohesion. Wait. Finally, we get to the beginning of the next season. 

 

Third, you lose people you shared something with. A season isn’t a long time, yet it is also long enough to build connections, to get to know someone and then they are gone. At least in the VHLM the main goal is to help a player move on, which is a demanding thing to do. You can still follow up, watch players progress in the VHLE, but it is different from having a shared experience. The player gets the excitement on the next phase, the GM must stay and do it all over again. 

 

Fourth a GM focus is divided, well at least it is if the GM has their own player. The GM needs to focus on their team first but also wants to experience the highs and lows of being a player. Most of us entered this VHL experience as a player and so that is the primary interaction point, we evaluate the other aspects through. But when someone takes on the role as GM their focus gets divided and becomes a little strained.  

 

So, there it is, my thoughts on the impact of offseason on the GM, how it is a tougher experience and one that I can see will have a tole over time. Now don’t get me wrong, there is also a sense of excitement in being a GM. There is a hope that the plans you made and the implementation of those plans over a period of time will see great reward. The ability to build something that can stand up over time. That is what keeps the GM position interesting. On to season 94 and hopefully success. 

[LucyXpher 1,433]

I actually enjoy the offseason for the diversity of tasks it presents, the drafts, the interviews, offseason tournaments, scouting, etc... But saying goodbye to players and seeing the team you built slowly dismantling is definitely sad.  Also, I have noticed the divided attention that comes with being a GM as well and that's something I'm still trying to balance.  
 

Great thoughts though and I've enjoyed reading this series throughout the season being a first season GM myself!  Best of luck through the offseason and into S94!