We have never met.  But, I am writing to you and the members of the Board about the upcoming Senior Season. I first want to say that I discovered recently that I am approaching my 10th year coaching competitive soccer for the Manatee Magic. In each of those years,  I have coached a team in the USA league.  So, upon recognizing this anniversary of sorts, it caused me to reflect on my experiences. The overriding, relevant reflection for our discussion is that I wanted to let you know just how much I appreciate the USA league and the consistent manner that it has run over the years I have been involved.  As clubs and people naturally are always looking for the greener grass and the next great thing to pitch to parents, the USA league in my opinion consistently puts the kids/players and the clubs at the forefront of it’s mission.  Frankly, you provide a quality product and you provide a welcoming place for even  very small clubs such as ours, to develop players and teams. So, again thank you because although I  am sure there are many chaotic moments behind the curtains, for the most part, folks should have little to complain about. And it is likely that there are some hard working people around there who don’t hear this enough.

With that background, I wanted to share my appreciation and that of our players and parents for your efforts at trying to get this season going. The fact that you have stepped up and perhaps stepped out of the crowd to set a stated goal of playing the season has provided much needed positivity to the lives of the teenagers and group that I coach. I can see the excitement in their play during our limited training sessions. I am aware of the recent delay. I think , most reasonable minds realize the challenges that will come from doing anything in 2020. It is tough business and I know that the Board has to wrestle with all kinds of issues related to the pandemic. The positive side is that at least we play outside, it is usually warm, the players are young and the parents have choices on whether they feel safe about their kids playing soccer. Accordingly and hopefully, that helps us ultimately get on the field. I do not write any of this with any political leaning or bent. it seems impossible to hold an opinion without an implication of some position other than the one stated. I simply wanted you and the Board to know that we appreciate your efforts to have a season. We hope the other Clubs are able to get their fields open and we hope they are also supportive. So far, our parents are universally supportive of getting on the field while at the same time doing our best to follow recommended procedures. I know we have discussed having two volunteer field Marshall’s per game to ask parents to respect distancing and to support the ever more difficult jobs of referees as an example. If there is anything that I can do to help other than providing this offer of support, please do not hesitate to reach out.