FRANCE – A combination of budget restrictions and player shortages have led both the La Guerche Hawks and the Compiègne Marlins to withdraw from the French League this upcoming season.

The Hawks, which finished the 2009 season in fifth-place with a 13-15 record, were plagued by recruitment difficulties and an inability to develop a junior team. The club also suffered a 20 percent reduction in local government funding.

Club officials made the decision to leave the French League during a meeting on Dec. 30. The Hawks will focus on their youth players and will field two teams in local leagues in 2010 in an effort to develop a larger pool of talented prospects.

La Guerche staff ace Anthony Piquet is being recruited by reigning French champion Rouen Huskies and the Savigny Lions, who have already signed former Hawk Gaetan Lepoupon.

The Marlins captured the Nationale 1 (second division) championship last year and were eligible to gain promotion to the top league in 2010. However, due to financial limitations and loss of numerous key performers, the Compiègne-based club opted to play at the third division level this season.

Photo courtesy of www.indians-bbe.com

Tags: France