This is the time of year the Board and I look forward to; the great majority of our offseason administrative work is done and we can enjoy watching our players and coaches hit the field.
Even though I try to make a point of thanking the Board members for the work they do at every meeting I’d like to take time to publicly recognize them for their efforts. If I can ask a small favor from each of you to “CLICK” on the Board tab at the top of our web page and note the people working behind the scenes. If you get a chance – say “thank you” when you see them; trust me it will mean a lot.
Each year we review the past season to see what adjustments and improvements we can make going forward based on our budget. Just like any business we base decisions on needs first and wants second. With that in mind we decided to discontinue providing Rhino’s Pro Passes this season. We found that a majority of the passes were not used very often or in some cases at all. We also decided not to place players names and specific numbers on their kits this season. Doing that saved several dollars per jersey; multiply that by a few hundred jerseys and the savings was enough for us to reluctantly agree to that change.
Given the economic climate we decided not to raise registration fees or hold fundraisers to offset these costs. We felt that the changes did not impact our main focus; providing a quality, positive soccer experience for the players. The Lancers organization; Board members and especially coaches, are committed to the development and improvement of each and every player first and foremost.
Our common goal is to improve the basic soccer skill sets of each player, create better understanding of the game while stressing team play. If these fundamental goals can be achieved we’ve been successful.
As we head out to play and watch the matches this season please stay mindful that in the grand scheme of things soccer isn’t very important; it’s a game. There are countless of examples in everyday life that should allow us to put soccer and winning and losing in their proper perspective. Please keep the following in mind:
- Everyone; coaches, officials and players are trying their best. No one is investing their time and not wanting to do their best; would you?
- Referees will make mistakes, get over it. I don’t know of any referee that wants to call a bad game. Heckling game officials is not tolerated by RDYSL or our club.
- Parents, if your player comes home with an issue about their coach, please give their coach(s) the benefit of the doubt. Sending off a nasty email or leaving an angry voice message will not resolve anything. Every coach wants every player to be successful; period. Why would a coach want any player to fail? Think about it. Our coaches are more than willing to talk through any issues with you.
- Players – go out and give your best at all times both in your play and your on field and off field behavior. You are part of an organization of players, coaches and administrators. When you put on the Lancers jersey you represent us all; not just yourself.
- Parents – be a great spectator and cheerleader; not an unofficial assistant coach. Unless you’re at every practice and know what your coaches are teaching how do you know you’re telling them the right thing? We have excellent coaches,please let them do the coaching.
- ALWAYS, ALWAYS. ALWAYS remember; soccer is a beautiful game but only that; a game.
Enjoy the 2010 season and as always, feel free to contact me with any questions, concerns or comments.
Peter Guppenberger
President – S.C. Genesee Lancers
