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NOTE:  Minutes of MSSL meetings are posted in
               reverse chronological order.

Executive Committee Members Present:  Pete Sadin (TFC), Lex Alvord (CSL),Frank Fitzgerald(CSL),Sean Martin(FVAA), Bob Poage (SYSA).  Others present: Mike Reilly(SCSC),  Rich Wellum(TYSC), Carl Dalstad(JUSA),  Ed McCauley(FVAA),  Commissioner: John Hunter

Meeting called to order by President Alvord

Assignment of Officers: The Executive Committee elected the following to serve as officers follows.  President – Lex Alvord (CSL), Vice President – Frank Fitzgerald,  Secretary – Sean Martin (FVAA), Treasurer – Pete Sadin (TFC), Assistant Treasurer – Bob Poage (SYSA)

Minutes: The Executive Committee approved the Minutes of the January 18, 2009 Executive Committee Meeting recorded by Secretary Mile Reilly as posted on the MSSL website.

Topics Discussed in addition to reading of minutes:

Tournament issue – Complaints filed with John concerning a tournament referee not allowing players to wear glasses during play.

Forfeit Fees:  Motion to accept with no corrections by Sean Martin, seconded by Pete Sadin and passed unanimously

Assignment of other positions: The Executive Committee approved the following to serve in the listed positions.  Risk Management Liaison – Pete Sadin,  Discipline and Appeals Liaison – Lex Alvord

NCYSA Challenge Meeting
Sean Martin and Lex Alvord will be attending the next NCYSA Challenge Council meeting.  Amendment to laws regarding substitution and clarification of laws regarding throw ins suggested by Lex Alvord.

Midstate Tournament
Lex Alvord suggested including US club and NCYSA  U-10 Academy teams in Midstate Tournament.  Tournament is not NCYSA Sanctioned, teams must be USYSA members.  Changes to Academy procedures should allow Academy teams to participate.

Review of Commissioner’s Performance
Discussion opened by Lex Alvord. Topics of discussion:
$50 fee per team, bonus from tournament proceeds
Update of web page requested by several associations.  Lex plans to assist John with updates.
Updates to schedule format requested to work better with Arbiter for Referee assignors, leagues and teams.
Motion for John Hunter to continue as Commissioner by Sean Martin, seconded by Bob Paoge and passed unanimously

Motion to adjourn by Sean Martin, seconded by Pete Sadin and passed unanimously

Submitted by Sean Martin, Secretary
 
 

Member associations represented:  Mike Reilly(SCSC),Pete Sadin (TFC), Lex Alvord (CSL),Frank Fitzgerald(CSL),Sean Martin(FVAA), Ed McCauley(FVAA), Bob Poage (SYSA),Rich Wellum(TYSC),Carl Dalstad(JUSA)-  Commissioner John Hunter present

Meeting called to order by President Alvord 3:10 pm

Minutes: Minutes of the 2008 AGM read and approved.

Annual Report:  Annual report from the commissioner given- Statistical report copies given to members for review:
Key points :  number of teams stabilized after a down year in 2007- 99 Fall teams, 97 spring teams
Fall tournament down to 52 teams- 9 different associations in the finals-tourney was opened to non-MSSL associations to ensure some divisions- Tournament financials saw a net positive of $4,394.00 down from $8,000 in 2007.
Less travel complaints, no official forfeitures, scheduling requests still handled and customized by John
Web assistance from SIC unacceptable for John with too many flexibility issues needed by MSSL teams.
Lex will continue to work with John on possible website changes
U10 self –scheduling proved to be more time consuming than worthwhile and proved ineffective for some. ALL scheduling will be done by the commissioner with an opportunity for teams to make changes before being published and within a 3 week period of any given date, there exists the potential to make changes if both teams agree and the normal notification protocol is followed.  Teams are encouraged to ask for the zero out dates on the intent form to allow for outside play such as tournaments.
Field issues- mainly a few associations that are overburdened by high numbers of classic teams,etc.
Discipline and appeals incidences were handled accordingly by D&A liaison Alvord via email and phone calls within the league and within the clubs.  One case was deemed severe enough to send to NCYSA for action.
Ref mentor program had 5 participants

Treasurer’s report:  positive net of approximately $800.00  through income and expense balance sheet.  Net operating fund balance as of May 31, 2009 is $40,121.02   Motion to accept report as is by Reilly, seconded by McCauley. Passed by members.

New Business:  President Alvord presented some changes requested by NCYSA for our bylaws.  Membership will review and submit additional changes if needed or adopt these new bylaws.  A discussion to re-word our bylaws to include any club that is duly insured to enter as members. This refers to non-NCYSA members and more information on this possibility is needed.
Planning issues- Seasonal start ups are similar to those in the past, fall is 1st Sunday after Labor Day and a 9 week season, spring season late February and a 10 week season with Easter Sunday an off date.
Older age “high school division” should register as a U17 or U18 team with NCYSA utilizing the 22 man roster rule. Play will be 11 v. 11 unless a majority wish to change format.
Fall tourney will add U10 teams from the academy division in 2009.  President Alvord looking into a “calendar” software program for future scheduling iusses.
Motion by McCauley to proceed with John as the primary scheduler. There is a 3 week window for schedule changes and John must be notified. Motion seconded by Sadin and passed unanimously.
Possibility of association renewal process to be handled electronically will be explored by the commissioner.

Election of Executive Committee:  Nominations for executive board positions. Reilly and Alvord are scheduled to go off of the board. Reilly nominated Sean Martin  (FVAA), Sadin nominated Lex Alvord to remain on board.  Nominees approved by acclamation. Positions to be assigned during executive committee meeting.

Motion by Sadin to approve MSSL providing refreshments for the annual meeting each year , seconded  by Poage and passed.

Meeting adjourned 5:18 pm by president Alvord.

Submitted by Mike Reilly, Secretary
 
 

Present: John Hunter(commissioner), Mike Reilly (Secretary), Bob Poage (Asst. Treasurer), Lex Alvord (President)

Quorum achieved and meeting called to order at 2:45 pm

Minutes Approved.  Previous meeting June 8, 2008 minutes read and motion to approve by Reilly, seconded by Alvord and passed

Commissioner’s report.   109 Fall teams, 95 spring (09) teams- continued decline in overall number of teams noted – 8 new teams for the newly formed boys high school age division- encouraging to pursue a similar division for girls next fall.  No forfeits noted for fall 08.

MSSL Fall Tournament-  (separate report attached) Jordan soccer complex-Fayetteville 52 teams ( down from 62 on 07).  Final tournament financial – net income $4,467.03  (down from  $7,289.22)  result of less teams, increased ref assignor fee, increase in field rental cost, decrease in T-shirt sales.  Tourney went well with the help of volunteers such as Lex Alvord, referee leaders, and only a few “bumps in the road” with conduct issues. A  D&A issue on coach conduct being handled internally with SASL president and a U11 Boys coach from actions during tournament final.  1 game suspension and a 1 year probationary status was deemed appropriate by executive committee and communication to president Sloan (SASL) will be followed through by John.

Referee Mentoring Program.    The Referee Mentoring Program is still under–utilized.  Needs some fine tuning and increased marketing to avoid misuse and promote more utilization by member associations.  Need to get word to all member association ref assignors and young ref mentorees regarding new modifications to include some new wording that mentors must be adults and a new $10 per game incentive program for ref assignors when setting up matches where mentoring will take place. John will update website to reflect this change.

Old Business.   Work on updating the scheduling system was carried out by John talking with John Foley of Soccerincollege (NCYSA web scheduler) to see if it was possible to make a full switch to that system.  After full review it was deemed too complicated to fully integrate John’s needs to be flexible in meeting the requests of member associations by what Soccerincollege offers. John also consulted with Chris Knowles an IT expert working with FVAA on possible changes.  After discussion it was determined that minimal changes would be made except for the work to try to import all schedules via excel format to improve ability of managers, field coordinators and ref assignors to manipulate schedules and posting options.

New Business.  Spring 09 season-  8 teams in the newly added boys high school division.  Self- scheduling for U10 programs has added workload for John with extra issues as “bugs” need to get worked out by trial and error.  Self- scheduling meeting taking place later today with all clubs participating, this process will be evaluated.  MSSL should plan to form a high school age division for girls for fall 09 and publicize with all members and NCYSA for increased visibility with neighboring leagues.  A small sided division for “high school age” players was approved by NCYSA members for the 09-10 seasonal year.

Role of Challenge Soccer in North Carolina.  Brief discussion on future role of Challenge soccer and Challenge leagues -  continued decline in teams registering with MSSL, increase in academy programs, continual change on how classic operates to be very flexible for clubs with watered-down levels and self selection, new US Club soccer “leagues” forming in the state all effecting the future role of what a challenge league can provide especially in highly populated areas. All Challenge leagues must look to NCYSA for guidance and a position statement on NCYSA philosophy on the seemingly continuous changes made to Classic and Academy divisions to support a “lower-level” of play that rivals the initial purpose of Challenge soccer.  Programs especially effected are U10-U12 programs but all age divisions are feeling some effect.  MSSL leaders must continue to monitor changes within the state and the mid-state region.

Motion to adjourn by Reilly, seconded by Alvord (President) meeting closed at 3:55 pm

Submitted by Secretary Mike Reilly, January 19, 2009
 
 

Present: Lex Alvord (President), Frank Fitzgerald (Vice President), Mike Reilly (Secretary), Pete Sadin (Treasurer), Robert Poage (Asst. Treasurer), John Hunter (MSSL Commissioner)

Meeting opened at 6:58 pm by outgoing president Sadin who steps down for Lex Alvord, new president to preside over meeting.

Approval of Minutes:  Minutes of the December meeting reviewed and motion to accept by Reilly, seconded by Sadin. Motion passes.

2008-2009 Officers:  New officers elected for positions on executive committee by acclamation of all parties as follows:
                                                Lex Alvord, President
                                                Frank Fitzgerald, Vice President and President Elect
                                                Pete Sadin, Treasurer
                                                Mike Reilly, Secretary
                                                Robert Poage, Asst Treasurer

NCYSA Representatives:
                The following were appointed:
                                D&A position to be held by Lex Alvord
                                Risk management liaison position held by Pete Sadin
                                NCYSA Challenge liaison position held by Lex Alvord

MSSL Fall Tournament: The Executive Committee confirmed that MSSL will hold a fall tournament in Fayetteville in early November 2008 as in the past.

Self Scheduling:  Discussion on proposed changes to introduce a self scheduling component for MSSL.  Lex wanted committee to consider an incremental  approach to this change to see how it works for 1 age group and then assess pros and cons in the winter meeting.  This option was accepted for the U10 boys and girls and it was agreed upon teams would schedule a minimum of 9 matches. Home and away balance in the schedule is a factor for success.  Motion by Sadin to set the scheduling meeting date for the U10’s for August 9, 2008 at a site to be determined in Pittsboro, seconded by Fitzgerald, motion passes unanimously.

Intent to Play Deadlines:  Discussion on moving play dates earlier in the schedule as brought up in the general meeting resulted in a motion by Sadin; to move ITP dates to match the dates of NCYSA classic dates beginning with the spring 2009 deadlines. Seconded by Fitzgerald, motion passes unanimously.

U-15/16 Girls:  Discussion concerning the request for FVAA and TUSA U15/16 girls to be released from MSSL.  The teams present were polled during the general meeting with a number at 5/6 including the requesting teams. The conclusion of the committee was to deny this request based on the premise to maintain the intregity of this division we needed these teams to stay. Vote was unanimous.

Commissioner Review:  John Hunter will be asked to again perform the duties of commissioner of MSSL and was asked to investigate the benefits of moving to an automated (computerized) registration component for the future. Soccer in College was specifically mentioned as one option.

President Alvord moved to adjourned at 7:59 pm.
Meeting adjourned.

Minutes submitted by Mike Reilly, MSSL Secretary
 
 

Present:  Lunday Riggsbee (CSL), Frank Fitzgerald (CSL), Lex Alvord (CSL),Mike Reilly (Sandhills), Art Cathcart (Triangle Y), Brooks Long (GCAA), Pete Siemion (GCAA), Tom Cantaffa (Oxford SC), Tim Smith (Oxford SC), Steve Briggs (JUSA), Sean Martin (FVAA), Robert Poage (SYSA),Kenny Simmons (LRSA), Pete Sadin (TFC), Dewan Bader (TFC), Scott Miller (SYSA), John Hunter (MSSL Commissioner)

Minutes:   Meeting was opened at 4:03 pm by Vice president Alvord. Personal introductions made by individuals in attendance.  Previous Annual Meeting (2007) minutes were approved through motion by Miller and seconded by Riggsbee.

Commissioner’s report:  Statistical report on number of teams showed a decline from previous year of 16 for the fall season and 27 for spring from 2007.
Various reasons for decline discussed were U10 academy inception, TUSA house league, CASL openings.

Fall tourney was a success with 62 teams participating, champions from 6 different associations in 11 divisions. Net tournament revenue was $7,289.22.

Yearly review information was discussed including 3 forfeits taking place, cudos to clubs such as Goldsboro U14 girls for making traveling concessions with Sandhills team.  East Wake and SASL for traveling to Oxford.  Field conditions and field availability discussed and the consensus was to report “unsafe” fields to both the referee and opposing coaches upon arrival at game sites.  Informing NCYSA on “unsafe” fields is always important as well. Scheduling and travel concerns were discussed and launched the idea of self scheduling for executive committee to consider as a policy change.  Field availability still have some conflicts with Classic teams on Sundays and it was emphasized that clubs can arrange games on Saturdays if agreeable by both teams and coordinate through their own field coordinator/ref assignor.  State Cup seedings worked out well in current format of getting records to John /NCYSA for inclusion in the rotational format used by NCYSA for Challenge Cup. No D&A issues this year and all complaints were handled through John and association presidents/liaisons.  Financial report was reviewed by Treasurer Miller and shows the league is in excellent condition with accrued revenues of $34,006.04 which was a gain of $2,657.44 from a year ago.

General Discussion:

Referee mentor program was again discussed and supported by all. Program grossly under- utilized. Executive committee will make some changes based on some discussion to make the program more widespread across levels of play not just MSSL matches. The money is in place to fully fund this program if it were fully subscribed.

Discussion on implications of declining numbers over the past few years began.  Most logic pointed to the continued need for this level of play unless Classic level continues to lower it’s standards of play.  Suggestions included improving website to be more informative. More coaching education , hire a part time person to help John with website information and how MSSL members can gain access to other links, outside help, etc. Appeal to NCYSA to limit the number of classic teams.  Develop North/South divisions to support less travel.  This would hurt outlying areas in getting enough games based on previous number of teams signing up, etc.  U15 and older teams move to a small sided games format. This will be looked at and extended to the membership for feedback for spring 09 season. Poll of members present for forming U15/16 girls full sided teams resulted in 6 teams.
Movement of intent to play forms due at an earlier date was discussed and will be considered by executive committee.  Self scheduling was discussed with agreement of a set of guidelines/rules that would have to be followed to assure all teams had games and did not travel excessively.  Executive committee will discuss at their meeting.

Release Requests: Requests in person by FVAA to allow their U15 girls and U16 girls release to play in CASL league.  Written request by TUSA for U15 girls also considered.  Request will be decided upon during Executive Committee meeting.

Election of Executive Committee:  Election of new members to the Executive Committee to replace Scott Miller and Lunday Riggsbee resulted in the nomination and election of Frank Fitzgerald (CSL) and Robert Poage (SYSA).  Pete Sadin (TFC) was also elected to continue on the Executive Committee.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:00 pm

Submitted by Mike Reilly, MSSL Secretary

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Present:   John Hunter (MSSL Commissioner), Lunday Riggsbee (asst Treasurer), Pete Sadin (President), Mike Reilly (Secretary), Lex Alvord (Vice President)

Approval of Minutes:  Approved previous meeting minutes from June 2007 with one typo correcting the spelling of vice president.

Confirmation of Email Decision:  THe Executive Committee reviewed the decision regarding GCAA U14 Girls and Boys move to CASL. The decision was handled via board member discussion and email correspondence sufficiently and in a timely manner. There was no movement to change the decision to deny the request of the U14 girls and allow the boys.

MSSL Fall tournament review:  The annual MSSL tournament hend at the Jordan Complex, Fayetteville was overall a successful tournament. Areas of concern were addressed such as trophies, t-shirts and incident reports during the tournament.  Financial report submitted and accepted as accurate. (Tournament financials on file.)  The executive committee commended John and Lunday for the worked performed leading up to and during the event.

The Executive Committee wants to clarify that game management is in the hands of the match official unless there is a blatant error that needs intervention by tournament director. The referees follow FIFA/USYS guidelines for youth soccer.  Incidents that did occur during the tournament were reviewed to be handled appropriately by the tournament director and subsequently by the Executive Committee of MSSL.  The well- publicized fact of games in a tournament format needing to start on time for the enjoyment of all teams is important and will continue to be a point of emphasis for referees during a tournament.

Discussion concerning changing to medals in lieu of trophies and perhaps a long-sleeve tee shirt as opposed to a short sleeve were discussed with the result of consideration for both changes for next fall.

Fall seasonal review:

102 registered teams

10B- 18   10G-7
11B-15    11G-5
12B-11    12G-10
13B-7      13G-7
14B-10
14/15G-  12  (14’s -8,  15’s – 4)

New Business Discussion:   Cancellation of games due to tournaments during the playing season.  Incidence of  teams cancellation of league games  to attend a tournament more prevalent recently than in the past.  The Executive Committee heard a motion by Rigsbee to double the current forfeit fines.  Seconded by Alvord and passed unanimously.  This now means a $200 fine for first offense and a $400 fine for a second offense to begin with this spring 08 season.  Teams are encouraged to pre-plan and list an off-date on their ITP’s due January 15th and communicate well in advance with opponents should  a conflict arise. The teams first loyalty should remain with the MSSL scheduled games unless BOTH parties can re-schedule on their own to accommodate a change.  In the case of a change the home team is responsible for contacting officials and field coordinators.  Teams are encouraged to work out any and all details for a scheduling change before contacting the MSSL commissioner/executive committee for assistance.  It was also discussed that we should look at NCYSA classic guidelines for re-scheduling conflicts and appropriate forms for checks/balances.

Field size, field conditions and goal size were discussed. Member associations are encouraged to provide safe and recommended size fields and goals as established by USYS/NCYSA.  These dimensions can be found at the NCYSA web site and usyouthsoccer.org site.

President Sadin adjourned meeting at 7:46 pm

Submitted by Mike Reilly, MSSL Secretary

Present:  Pete Sadin, Doug Atkinson, Lunday Riggsbee, Mike Reilly, Scott Miller, Lex Alvord.   Comnmissioner: John Hunter;  Guests: Jonathan and Christine Hilliard

Meeting called to order at 4:32 pm by outgoing president Atkinson.

New officers for 2007-2008 accepted by acclamation.  Pete Sadin, president;  Mike Reilly, secretary;  Lex Alvord, vice president and president-elect;   Scott Miller, treasurer; and Lunday Rigsbee, assistant treasurer.

Pete Sadin was selected as Risk Management Liaison with NCYSA and Lunday Riggsbee will act as D&A rep for MSSL. Lex will attend the challenge council meeting June 9.

Discussion  on several topics including getting fact seeking emails to clubs regarding older girls teams for fall.

Fall tournament’s potential of being impacted by academy programs. MSSL fall tournament dates set for November 10-11, 2007 at Jordan complex in Fayetteville.

Discussion on impact of US Club options for teams- how can MSSL expand the tournament- insurance implications of mixing the two levels of registration a major hurdle.

Commissioner Hunter was asked to leave the meeting so the committee could address his performance for the year.  Conclusion was John was doing a fine job and points of emphasis from last evaluation were being met. John will look at scheduling software options  in particular the software NCYSA was using for state cup administration.  $3000 bonus approved for John’s work.

Other business included the discussion on possible Saturday play for MSSL and scheduling handled by coaches as is the case with classic level.  Emails to clubs for feedback on this option will take place over the next few weeks.  Self scheduling not a real option for fall 07 scheduling.

Motion to adjourn by Riggsbee at 5:39 pm- approved and adjourned

Submitted by Mike Reilly, MSSL  Secretary

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Present: Lex Alvord,Jon Hilliard, Christine Hilliard (SASL), Karin Sedivy, Sean Martin (FVAA), Chris Custer (GCAA), David Allred (CRSA), Doug Atkinson (TUSA), Mike Reilly (SYSL), Pete Sadin (TFC), Lunday Riggsbee (CSL), Scott Miller (SCSA), John Hunter (MSSL Commissioner)

Minutes:  June 3, 2006 minutes  moved to be accepted [as published on website] by Riggsbee, seconded by Sadin, minutes approved

Commissioner’s report (handout to those present) Annual summary of  teams and annual financial report
    Discussion led by commissioner Hunter:
    Fall (2006) 118 teams, Spring(2007) 118 teams
    Fall tournament in Fayetteville- 60 teams- successful event- wet conditions complex not closed but revised schedule.
        Less net income due to rooms needed for referees, -less rooms available as comps.

General discussion points included continued concern about available fields (particle clubs of note TUSA , TFC and CRSA) for scheduling  Keeping scores or records for Cup play, forfeits and schedule conflicts. Teams should be reminded to be loyal to MSSL schedule and use the zero out dates during ITP.  Communication between clubs is vital if trying to make changes to game schedules.   John continue to look at avoiding lopsided play and extensive travel. Saturday play is an option for teams to check on the ITP form (due Aug 1 and Jan 15th  for fall and spring respectively).  TUSA will be dropping estimated 7 teams (U11 age) this year for house league play/academy program.  Referee mentor program used by several this spring, still under utilized and should be promoted by each club.  Discussion on Academy program and anticipated areas of impact with current MSSL policies and performance. Potential exists for losing several teams, strength of teams, travel increased due to fewer teams. Will have to wait and see real impact in August through registration. Most smaller clubs holding off on committing to an academy program option (U10 this year). Potential for U11/12 being added for next calendar year.  Also discussed was inter league scheduling as an option and friendlies with clubs moving towards academy programs.  Sadin brought up the idea of self scheduling for challenge teams much like the classic model being used currently. An email will go out for feedback from clubs on this idea.  Offside rule for U-10s was briefly discussed and determined to be implemented as in the past for MSSL with “blatant-cherry picking” being the focus for calling offside. 1 referee only.

Election of executive committee:  Mike Reilly nominated by Doug Atkinson, Lex Alvord nominated by Reilly to fill  vacancies for two-year terms.  Both were accepted by unanimous acclamation.

Meeting adjourned at 4:25 pm

Submitted by Mike Reilly, MSSL , Secretary
 
 

Present: Executive Committee Members: Doug Atkinson, Mike Reilly, Lunday Riggsbee.  Commissioner John Hunter

Quorum established- meeting called to order at 3:15 pm by President Atkinson

Minutes of the June 3, 2006 meeting approved with no amendments

Commissioner’s Report:

Fall Review-  118 registered teams - new high number even with TUSA U10 league, returning FVAA teams helped a great deal.  Season was smooth with normal concerns about referees, field sizes and schedule snafus.  Exception of the inappropriate behavior (fighting) between parents in October 22, 2006 in Fayetteville.  A D&A outcome from NCYSA is pending.  Commissioner Hunter will follow up.

Fall Tournament-    60 teams participated, most from U10-U12.  All in all a very well run tournament despite wet field conditions, able to get tourney completed where other coinciding tourneys across the state had to cancel. Thanks to John and those volunteers who made it possible. Financially the tourney net income was $4,401.57 and an itemized report was available for review.

Financial Report-  Checking Account balance as of Jan. 1 , 2007 is $8521.53 and $25,000 in 6-month CD and $6200 in the Performance Bond Account.  Outstanding bills include website fee and post office box rental both due this spring.

Old Business:

Discussion on Web scheduling issues to make it easier to download and manipulate schedules. Doug will work with John on solution using PDF format procedures.  It is advised to continue the practice of informing managers to use the “call ahead” policy during the season.  Email responses from the commissioner has improved.

New Business:

Discussion concerning the ITP deadlines used by CASL and how it effects our teams or potential teams. Doug will call Geoff  Griffin at CASL to see if there is a solution and how to better work together. It was decided to move the MSSL ITP (Intent to Play) deadline.  A motion was made by Lunday to move the ITP deadlines to coincide with the NCYSA player registration deadline, August 1 in the fall, and January 15 each spring. Seconded by Reilly and passed unanimously.  Three potential U15Boys teams were accepted into the CASL league.  A 14/15 Boys age group is being considered for the Spring 07 season, determination final after the January 31st deadline this year.

Academy program being discussed by NCYSA was explained by Reilly and Atkinson, no formal action is needed at this time as NCYSA is still trying to workout adoption and implementation process.  Targeted age group for the Academy is U10 players.

President Atkinson moved to adjourn, seconded by Riggsbee, meeting closed at 4:14 pm

Submitted by Mike Reilly, Secretary, MSSL.

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Present:  Executive committee members:  Doug Atkinson, Lunday Riggsbee, Mike Reilly, Scott Miller,  Pete Sadin.   Commissioner John Hunter.  Visitors- Dan Stout (CSL),John Alexander (TYSL), Sean Mayefskie (TYSL)

Quorum established- meeting called to order by President Riggsbee at 4:05 pm

Minutes of the January  8, 2006 meeting approved

Appointment of new Officers by unanimous consent as follows:

President- Doug Atkinson(TUSA)
Vice President / President elect- Pete Sadin (TFC)
Secretary- Mike Reilly (SYSL)
Treasurer/D&O- Scott Miller ( SYSA)
Asst Treasurer- Lunday Riggsbee (CSL)

Financial Report Discussion:

Commissioner will get team account balances to each club (association) on bond funds unused.  Healthy bottom-line with just under $32,000 from tournament fees over the years.
Motion made to award commissioner a $3000 bonus ($1500 per season) as part of the 2006 compensation package. Passed unanimously.

New Business:

Discussion on commissioner’s job performance- commissioner was asked to leave during the discussion- overall very positive job performance with the request for updating web site to make schedules more readable and earlier responses to emails.These items were discussed positively with John Hunter upon his return to the meeting. Doug agreed to help John with both of these endeavors

Reminder to all associations to complete the NCYSA Risk management program

No new business or discussion, Miller motioned to close , seconded by Riggsbee, adjourned by Atkinson  at 4:48 pm

Mike Reilly_____
Secretary

Present: Triangle United Soccer Assoc-Doug Atkinson; Triangle Football Club-Pete Sadin; Triangle Y Soccer Club- John Alexander, Sean Mayefskie;  Fuquay-Varina Athletic Association-Milton Morgan;  Scotland Youth Soccer-Scott Miller;  Sandhills Youth Soccer League-Mike Reilly;  Dan Stout-Chatham Soccer League,  Lunday Riggsbee-MSSL president;  John Hunter-MSSL Commissioner

President Riggsbee welcomed everyone and opened the meeting at 3:05 pm

Approval of 2005 annual meeting minutes was conducted and approved with no amendments

Commissioner’s Report and Discussion:

Commissioner John Hunter presented a written and verbal report on the 2005-06 seasons and the 2005 fall tournament and budget. The following discussion and policy issues are highlighted as follows:
Overall successful year, various issues from league parents still focusing on travel demands, mismatched teams, referee competency, and discontented parents during games and subsequent behaviors and league actions if any.  Discussion recommended clubs to continue developing ref education programs,use the  ref mentor program, have president’s indicate team strength on intent forms,team managers call ahead before traveling to away games to avoid surprises.

Discussion on north-south divisions still difficult with the changing landscape of challenge soccer but commissioner always looks at travel distance, time of matches,etc. Ongoing task for all clubs to look at team strength and perception of the challenge soccer experience for their players and parents. Also mentioned was the changing divisions within the classic league making less travel demands for  some classic divisions and the fact that coaches can schedule their matches appears to be attractive.

The Fall Tournament was held at Jordan Soccer Complex, Fayetteville, NC.  53 teams this year-down from mid 60’s in 2004.  Income of $18,666.00 and expenses of $13,693.23  with a net income of $4,972.77

New Business and Discussion:

NCYSA Challenge Council meeting of June 3, 2006 results were discussed including the approval of scheduling leagues to continue to determine for themselves the implementation of the offside rule in U-10 small sided soccer. Mid State will adopt the same interpretation of the small sided rule as in used in 2005, to use ; 1 center ref, no asst refs, and call offside when it is obvious. Teams should be aware that without assistant referees the center ref will mostly be looking for “gross” offside position not the fine line calls associated with higher levels of play and the use of assistant refs. Coaches should make their parents and players aware of this to avoid confusion before games begin in the fall.

Triangle United has informed MSSL that it plans to NOT field any u-10 teams in the fall season and perhaps not for the entire year. The ability to form a house league and travel issues have prompted them to pursue this. SYSL expressed a desire to play friendly matches with TUSA teams and will contact TUSA DOC directly.

Discussion on older teams prompted the use of an email request from commissioner to league presidents on best guess on fielding u-15/16 teams. Declining number of teams in the older age groups continues to affect most clubs and scheduling leagues including MSSL. Discussion on Saturday play for MSSL as other leagues have adopted did not go anywhere and MSSL games will be on Sundays.

It was suggested that the small-sided rules be posted on our website as opposed to just a link elsewhere for easier access.

League balances are strong with $31,348.96 in the operating account.  Full details are available from the commissioner or treasurer.

Election of Executive Committee Memberes

Election of new Executive Committee members to serve two-years terms:

Pete Sadin
Scott Miller
Lunday Riggsbee
 

President Riggsbee adjourned the meeting at 4:00 pm

Mike Reilly
Secretary

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Present: Executive Committee (EC) Members: Scott Miller, Lunday Riggsbee, Doug Atkinson, and Mike Riley.  Commissioner: John Hunter.  Visitors: Cameron Tew.

A quorum being present, President Lunday Riggsbee called the meeting to order at 5:10 PM.

Approval of Minutes

Executive Committee minutes for meetings held January 15, 2005 and June 4, 2005, and the recording of a Decision of the Executive Committee dated July 6, 2005 (all posted on the website) were reviewed and unanimously approved.

Commissioner's Report and Discussion

Commissioner John Hunter presented a written report (available on request) and verbal report on the fall 2005 season and the 2005 MSSL tournament.

There were 108 teams registered in the fall season, the increase due to the U-12's now playing small sided games.  There was only one forfeit in almost 500 games and relative few complaints about refereeing.  The two issues which predictably garnered complaints were travel time and mis-matches.  For the most part we had a good season in these areas, but there were a few  teams who were vocally dissatisfied with having to travel, and there were three games (all U-10) that were serious mis-matches.  Efforts will continue to be made to address these problems.  We will emphasize the importance of associations indicating the relative strength of teams so that we can avoid as many mis-matches as possible through scheduling, and we will communicate methods of coaching that can help.  As always, travel will be examined when constructing the schedules in an attempt to keep it at a minimum and in perspective with other demands.

The 2005 MSSL fall tournament went smoothly in all regards.  There were 53 teams registered.  Next year we will make more of an effort to better publicize this tournament among our associations so as to increase the attendance.  Lunday Riggsbee acted as Assistant Director.  Much positive feedback was received.

Interim Financial Report

Commissioner John Hunter presented financial data for a mid-year report.  The tournament has revenues of $18,666.00 and expenses of $13,693.23 for a net profit of $4,972.77.  The fall season posted a surplus of $163.00 .  With a few items yet un-posted on the checking account, the current (11/30/05) operating balance is $32,007.96.  (Complete financial details available from the Commissioner or the Treasurer.)

Referee Mentoring Program

We are disappointed that out Referee Mentoring Program has not been taken advantage of.  The goal is to foster commitment and excellence from youth referees who will become reliable and competent referees through their high school years.  Numerous suggestions were made for possible changes to re-structure our program.  John Hunter will re-draft the program with the changes and circulate it to Executive Committee members for comment and approval.

Cape Fear Friendlies

A request from Bill Furjanic to arrange friendlies with Cape Far teams was discussed.  IT was decided that Lubnday Riggsbee will communicate with Bill indicating that there is interest among MSSL associations and that arrangements should be made directly with those associations.  Triangle United and SYSL are interested and others will be invited. 

The upcoming action on the FVAA request to the NCYSA to continue its exception to place teams with CASL was discussed.  It was decided that the MSSL position will be that in order to protect the integrity of the Scheduling Leagues, we must insist that teams in the defined territory not be allowed to depart to join other leagues except for U-13 ages and above by direct negotiation on the basis of hardship.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned.

Recorded by:

_______________________________
John B. Hunter, Commissioner
 
 

A decision vial email correspondence was agreed upon and posted on July 6, 2005 in accordance with Bylaw 4.6.2 and is hereby minuted per Bylaw 4.6.3.

Consenting to this decision were EC members Lunday Riggsbee, Doug Atkinson, Mike Riley, Scott Miller, and Fred Kull.  (A full history and copies of email exchanges are available from the Commissioner.)

Background:  On the weekend of June 11, 2005 the CRSC (Clayton) made a request to the NCYSA Challenge Council to play their challenge games with CASL and to allow same for all Challenge teams in Wake, Durham and Orange counties as well.  This proposal was flatly turned down by the Council.  An email request from John Alexander of CRSC was received by MSSL on June 13, 2005 stating that he thought that he was following protocol to go to the NCYSA with his request, but now understands that he needs to negotiate with the MSSL.  He expressed a desire to negotiate with the MSSL regarding challenge teams playing in CASL.  The MSSL Executive Committee felt the need to address this issue and did so through a series of emails resulting in a policy decision.

Decision:

In order to strengthen Challenge Soccer in areas south of Raleigh with the objective of having adequate numbers of teams to effect scheduling with less travel time and more parity between scheduled teams, the MSSL Executive Committee decides:

1. That MSSL categorically say to CRSC that all U-12s and below will stay with MSSL.
2. That MSSL will negotiate with regard to U-13 and above teams on a team-by-team hardship basis only.
3. That MSSL point out to CRSC that FVAA will likely be coming back to MSSL which should ease their scheduling anxiety greatly.
4. That MSSL Communicate to FVAA that we expect that their U11s and U-10s will be playing in MSSL this next year, given that their exemption will likely not be renewed for the next year.
5. That MSSL will move to the Challenge Council that FVAA's exemption be modified to phase out their automatic participation in CASL.  To FVAA we expect that they will move up one age group each year into the MSSL.

Minuted: July 6, 2005

John Hunter,
Commissioner

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Present: Executive Committee (EC) Members: Fred Kull, Scott Miller, Lunday Riggsbee, Doug Atkinson, and Mike Riley.  Commissioner: John Hunter.  Visitors: John Alexander, Cameron Tew, and John Martin.

A quorum being present, President Fred Kull called the meeting to order at 4:45 PM.

Officers

Officers for the 2005-2006 seasonal year were appointed as follows:

    President:            Lunday Riggsbee
    Vice President and President Elect:  Doug Atkinson
    Secretary:           Mike Riley
    Treasurer:           Scott Miller
    Asst Treasurer:   Fred Kull

NCYSA Risk Liason

In response to NCYSA request, Fred Kull was appointed the Risk Liason person to the NCYSA.

NCYSA D&A Representative

Scott Miller will serve as the D&A rep to the NCYSA.

Amendment to Forfeit Policy

Based on discussion in the meeting of Member Association Representatives (held the previous hour) it was confirmed that the wording of policy 7A should be changed to reflect that the forfeiting team's local association should primarily and routinely be held accountable for any fines and the payment of referee's fees due.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Recorded by:

_______________________
John Hunter, Commissioner
 
 

Present:  Chapel Hill United / Triangle United Soccer Club – Doug Atkinson and Cameron Tew;  Durham-Chapel Hill Strikers – Fred Kull (and Cameron Tew); Chatham Soccer League – Lunday Riggsbee: Scotland Youth Soccer Association – Scott Miller: Sandhills Youth Soccer Association – Mike Riley:  Fuquay-Varina Athletic Association – John Martin: Triangle Y Soccer Club – John Alexander.  Commissioner – John Hunter.

President Fred Kull welcomed the Representatives, conducted introductions, and called the meeting to order at 3:15 PM.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Meeting of Association Representatives held June 5, 2004 were reviewed by the representatives present and approved.

Commissioner’s Report and Discussion

Commissioner John Hunter presented a written and verbal report on the 2004-2005 season and the 2004 tournament and reviewed highlights of the year. Policy issues raised by the report were discussed.

Information and Discussion points:

MSSL registered 90 teams for the fall, 2004 season and 98 teams for the spring, 2005 season.  15 local youth soccer Associations are presently members of the MSSL.

Commissioner Hunter commented that in the midst of fielding routine complaining (which is part of the job) examples of good will and cooperation stand out and are much appreciated.  Peter Rieth is an example of a cooperative coach who is a pleasure to deal with, and Dave Gunnels is very much appreciated as an administrator for his efficiency, his timely attention to detail, and his pleasant demeanor.  Fred Kull, who will be rotating off as President, is appreciated for his decade of service to youth soccer, his intelligent and practical decisions, and his constant ability to see and articulate "the big picture" for what is fundamentally important in the service of our youth in this endeavor.

In this past year there were a total of 7 forfeits (of 861 games scheduled).  Each experience is very unpleasant and leaves a bad taste for all involved. Associations should try to better communicate the importance of honoring the schedule -especially to their younger teams.  Discussion turned to streamlining the MSSL's response to forfeits by holding the local association responsible, and letting them deal with their team.

We will continue to look at ways to eliminate all scheduling errors.  However, we need to continue to emphasize the importance of "checking in" with the opposing team a few days before the scheduled match to be sure that no misunderstandings have occurred.

Scheduling with regard to travel time and avoiding "mismatches" continues to be an issue for some teams.  We will continue to try to address this issue by our policy of trying to ascertain team strength and scheduling appropriately.  We will continue to try to schedule with travel time in mind.  However, there will likely be situations were travel time can not be minimized to every team's satisfaction.  Associations will try to communicate the realities of challenge soccer scheduling to their teams, trusting that more realistic expectations will lessen some of the complaints.  (In reality, there are only about a half dozen out of 98 teams who are vocal in their complaints, but we agree that travel time should be minimized whenever possible.)

The posting of scores for purposes of seeding in tournaments was discussed.  For the time being is seems that our present methods are working, but we will remain open for new ways to handle this potential problem.  Fred Kull noted that, nationally, there is a movement to not keep scores (post standings) in small sided games.

We are puzzled as to why more have not taken advantage of our Referee Mentor Program.  We will try to draw more attention to this effort. We are expecting to spend up to $8,000 per year on this program in support of developing young referees.  This continues to seem like the logical use to which we should put excess revenues earned through the tournament.

The discussion of D&A issues, led to the same conclusion that problems with coaches or parents should be referred to the associations for enforcement.  Problems with associations will have to be worked as best we can.

The financial report ending May 31, 2005 was presented as part of the Commissioners report and attested to by Treasurer Scott Miller.  The League has an adjusted operating balance of $27,018.19 which has been accumulated over four years entirely as a result of our annual tournament.  The (refundable) Member Performance Bond account stands at $6,200.

Executive Committee Meeting Schedule -ByLaw Change

Per action and notice at the January 15, 2005 Executive Committee meeting, the Representatives vote to amend ByLaw 4.6 to reflect that regularly scheduled Executive Committee meetings will be in January and in June or July with other meetings as necessary.

Election of Executive Committee Members

Per the Bylaws, the Representatives elected Mike Riley and Doug Atkinson to serve two-year terms on the Executive Committee expiring in June 2007.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:40 PM.

Recorded by:

___________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner

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Present: Executive Committee (EC) Members: Fred Kull, Dave Gunnels, Scott Miller, and Lunbday Riggsbee.  Commissioner: John Hunter.  (No visitors)

A quorum being present, President Fred Kull called the meeting to order at 3:20 PM.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of June 5, 2004 were approved as distributed and posted on the web site.  (No Executive Committee meeting was
held in September.)

Review of Fall Season

Most aspects of the fall, 2004 season went well.  However, there continues to be some problems with forfeits.  The Commissioner is directed to communicate with all of our member associations asking each one to emphasize to their teams that forfeits must be avoided if at all possible, and that communication between scheduled teams as suggested in the MSSL Policies is highly recommended.

Review of Fall 2004 Tournament

The fall 2004 MSSL tournament ran smoothly and was considered quite successful.  There was only a single complaint (regarding seeding) and one suggestion regarding registration which was rejected by the EC.

Review of Finances

Treasurer Scott Miller informed the EC that he had reviewed the League's finances and found them in order.  The League has a balance of uncommitted funds of $27,165.29 which represents the proceeds for the last 4 annual MSSL tournaments.  Plans are being made to appropriately spend down this balance.  (See below.)

Provision of Fields for MSSL Scheduling -Resolution of Violation and Policy

The EC reaffirmed that it was the responsibility of each association to exercise “due diligence” to be sure that each field offered for League play was properly contracted and committed per MSSL Policy 1.E.  Violations of this policy will result in the offending association being fined in addition to payment due for (unauthorized) use and upkeep or preparation.  With regard to the fall 2004 violation of MSSL Policy by the Carolina Soccer Club U-12 girls team falsely claiming access to a field contracted to and maintained by the Durham / Chapel Hill Strikers Soccer Club, the Executive Committee directs that the Carolina Soccer Club pay a use fee of $200 in addition to a fine of $200 to the MSSL who will forward such monies to the Strikers Soccer Club.

Review of Disciplinary Action

The disciplinary action regarding coach Eddie Hill as decided at the June 5, 2004 EC meeting has not yet been concluded.  Dave Gunnels will again speak to Mr. Hill and will subsequently assure that the fine due will be paid to MSSL.

LRSA U-10 Girls Team Forfeits

The issue of the LRSA U-10 girls team multiple forfeits from the fall 2004 season was once again discussed.  It was decided that Fred Kull will communicate with Randy Montovani about this issue.  The EC further decided to fine the team only $100 (plus any referee fees due).

Withdrawal of Teams to Play in Other Challenge Leagues: Policy and Decision

The issue of MSSL association teams playing in other challenge leagues was discussed.  In that such a withdrawal may have real consequences regarding the viability of an age group in the MSSL, it was decided that as a matter of policy, permission for such withdrawal will not be routinely granted.  With regard to the specific request of the CSL request to remove their U-14 boys team to CASL, the EC granted provisional permission pending the
 

Proposal for MSSL Youth Referee Mentoring Support Program

The Ad-Hoc Committee appointed at the June 5, 2004 EC meeting to propose appropriate uses for accumulated MSSL funds reported that they supported the mentoring of youth referees as an appropriate use of these funds.  A specific proposal, which was circulated by John Hunter, was adopted  with several revisions.  Procedural revisions will be included in the draft.  The EC authorized an administrative payment of $10 per participant per season.  The revised draft of this proposal will be circulated among the EC for final approval as soon as possible.  Paul James, the NCSRA, the NCYSA, and other appropriate persons will be notified of this program with the request for any suggested improvements.

Executive Committee Meeting Schedule

The EC decided to modify it's annual meeting schedule by planning formal meetings in June or July  and in January with other meetings in March and October (and other times) only if necessary.  Notice will be given (per posting of these minutes) to amend bylaw 4.6 to reflect this meeting schedule change.

Annual Meeting Date Set

The EC decided to set the 2005 Annual Meeting on June 4, 2005.

There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

_________________________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner

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Present:    Executive Committee (EC) Members: Fred Kull, Diane Curfman, Dave Gunnels, and Scott Miller.  Commissioner: John Hunter.  Visitors: John Alexander (Holly Springs), and Greg Curfman (CSC).

A quorum being present, President Fred Kull called the meeting to order at 4:28 PM.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of January 18, 2004 were approved as distributed and posted on the web site.  (No Executive Committee meeting was held in March.)

Appointment of Officers

The Executive Committee acted by unanimous consent to appoint the following officers for the Mid State Soccer League for the 2004-2005 seasonal year.

            President            - Fred Kull
            Vice President    - Lunday Riggsbee
            Secretary            - Diane Curfman
            Treasurer           - Scot Miller
            Asst. Treasurer  - Dave Gunnels
            President elect   - Lunday Riggsbee

Report on NCYSA Communications.

Fred Kull noted that the Challenge Council of the NCYSA had acted in March to formalize their control of the "scheduling leagues" in NC.  The MSSL has been "grandfathered" with regard to our association members' voting allocation as per our bylaws.  Otherwise we are in full compliance with NCYSA rules as a scheduling league.

Fall Schedule

The fall Schedule will start on September 12 and finish on November 7th.  In that 9-week span, teams will be guaranteed 8 games and may select one "open" date per Club Policy.  Discussion followed -clarifying, once again, that only one "open" date will be allowed so as to insure schedule integrity.

Tournament

The MSSL tournament will be held on November 13-14 in Fayetteville.  The EC re-confirmed the decision to continue our tournament in its present format and at the same fee schedule for at least one more year.  The EC decided to provide three referees for the small sided games at U-10 and U-11 pending Scot Miller's checking into any specific rules the NCYSA may be considering regarding refereeing for small-sided games.  The EC decided to give the smaller rostered teams a $50 break in tournament fees.  Upon suggestion by Fred Kull the EC agreed that "walkie-talkies" at our tournament would be quite useful and authorized Fred to purchase 3 sets of "walkie-talkies" to be used at the tournament to stay in touch with key tournament officials on the site.

Seeding Procedure for State Challenge Cup

Fred Kull presented the procedure for providing a seeding order to the NCYSA for the Challenge Cup.  Upon discussion, this procedure was formally adopted and will become Policy 6D.

NCYSA Affiliation Policy

The Executive Committee decided to automatically annually register with the NCYSA as an Associate Member without future specific authorization.
 

MSSL Executive Committee
Meeting, June 5, 2004                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Page 2 of 2

Funds Dispursement Committee

The Executive Committee appointed Fred Kull, Scot Miller, and Dave Gunnels as an ad-hoc committee to consider the issue of how to deal with the excess funds the League has accumulated through its annual tournament.  The ad-hoc committee is charged with making a recommendation to the Executive Committee upon completion of its deliberations.

Changes Small Sided Play in The MSSL

The Executive Committee confirmed its intention that the MSSL fully harmonize with the changes in Small Sided play published by the NCYSA.  Consequently, the Commissioner will update the MSSL Policies on the web to reflect "8v8" play for both U-10 and U-11 teams in the 2004-2005 season and then again to include U-12 play in the 2005-2006 season.

U-10 Girls Teams and "Tiered" Scheduling

The Executive Committee determined that the Commissioner should publicize that the MSSL welcomes all gender teams at the U-10 level and will schedule a U-10 Girls division if at least 6 all female teams register for the fall season.  All female teams will be invited to indicate if they would like to play against coed teams even if there is a Girls division.  In any case the EC is pleased with the results of Tiered scheduling in the spring of 2004 (see EC minutes 1/18/04) and will continue this program next year in the U-10 and U-11 divisions.  Additionally, the Presidents of each association will be asked to indicate their knowledge of particularly strong or, conversely, beginning teams so as to accomodate the tiered scheduling program.

Assessment of Sanction

The Executive Committee constituted itself as a Disciplinary Board per Bylaw 4.5.1, and reviewed the incident involving a coach who refused to play a game with a scheduled referee crew.   By unanimous agreement it was decided to suspend the coach for one game in addition to the asssesment of all forfeit fees and referee charges consistent with published MSSL policy for a forfrited game.  President Fred Kull will formally communicate the details of this decision to the coach and Dave Gunnels will speak with the coach regarding satisfing the sanction portion.  (NOTE:  Issues of referee quality were addressed for action at the Annual Meeting of Member Association Representatives.)  In another case, the Executive Committee agreed that the referee fees for a forfeited game should be paid by a team that cancelled a game and failed to report the cancellation to the commissioner as required by Policy 7E.

Protests

The Executive Committee concurred with the Commissioner that "protests" of game results were inappropriate.  The EC reaffirmed the policy adopted at the July, 2003 meeting that issues should first be taken to the local Association.  The commissioner will clarify this in the MSSL Policies (7F).   (It was noted that the NCYSA will not consider Challenge protests in its D&A procedures.)

2004-2005 Fee Schedule

The Executive Committee reviewed the fee schedule and directed that it should remain the same as in the year past.

Commissioner Annual Performance Review

The Executive Committee accomplished its annual review of the Commissioner's performance.  The Commissioner was invited to continue his services to the MSSL as an independent contractor for the 2004-2005 seasonal year on the same terms as agreed in July, 2003.  John Hunter accepted these terms.

Scheduling Software

The Commissioner indicated that he was prepared to purchase scheduling software on behalf of the League.  The Executive Committee supported this action and approved expenditure of up to $400 for this purpose.  The Commissioner will consult with Greg Curfman in selecting software that would meet our needs.

There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

_________________________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner

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Present:  Carolina Soccer Club (Clayton) – Diane Curfman; Chapel Hill United (Rainbow) – Dave Gunnels;  Durham-Chapel Hill Strikers – Fred Kull;  Sanford Area Soccer League – Rick Guerrero; Sandhills Youth Soccer Association - Kirk Lynch; Scotland Youth Soccer Association -  Scot Miller.  Commissioner - John Hunter.  Guests: John Alexander - Holly Springs Youth Soccer, Greg Curfman.

President Fred Kull welcomed the Representatives, conducted introductions, and called the meeting to order at 3:15 PM.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Meeting of Association Representatives held June 28, 2003 were reviewed by the representatives present and approved.

Commissioner’s Report

Commissioner John Hunter made a verbal report on the 2003-2004 season and the 2003 tournament and reviewed highlights of the year. He stressed his commitment to the MSSL as a developmental league with an emphasis on sportsmanship.  Policy issues raised during the year were noted and deferred for later discussion.

Financial Report

The financial report ending May 31, 2004 was presented and discussed by Treasurer Scot Miller.  The League has a balance of $20,494.68 which has been accumulaed over the years entirely as a result of our annual tournament.  A committee will be appointed to recommend how to best utilize these excess funds in the support of youth soccer.

Election of Executive Committee Members

Per the Bylaws, the Representatives elected Fred Kull, Scot Miller, and Lunday Rigsbee to serve two-year terms on the Executive Committee.

Policy Issues and Concerns

Representatives raised several issues which were discussed.  There was concern expressed about some refereeing at MSSL games.  It was decided that a communication would be sent to Association Presidents (with a copy to Referee Assignors) reminding them of expectations regarding the quality and age of referees and thier responsibility to work with their local referee assignors to insure appropriate and quality assignments for MSSL games.  Additionally, Referee Assignors will be again reminded to inform referees to check player passes before each game.   Association Presidents will be reminded that it is our expectation that all players on a team should play significant time in games if they have made the effort to participate at team practices and met other expectations.  Finally, Association presidents will be asked to comment on the strength of U-10 teams or new teams so that they might be scheduled appropriately.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:20 PM.

Respecfully submitted,

John Hunter
Commissioner
 
 

Present:    Executive Committee Members: Fred Kull, Diane Curfman, Dave Gunnels, Lunday Riggsbee, and Scott Miller.  Commissioner: John Hunter.  Visitors: Mark Johnson (NRYSA), Greg Curfman (CSC), and Karen Aldridge (CH United).

A quorum being present, President Fred Kull called the meeting to order at 4:10 PM and made introductions.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of July 13, 2003 were approved as distributed and posted on the web site.  (No Executive Committee meeting was held in September.)

Report on NCYSA Annual Meetings.

Items of interest from the NCYSA meetings were reported.  Recruiting rules are being re-written and may apply even if an annual contract is instituted.  Multiple rostering will be allowed at any time, although with some restrictions.  There is a trend to divide the NCYSA into regions for administration which may influence the MSSL in a few years.  It was noted that NCYSA's Discipline and Appeals committee was not available to challenge teams.  This fact precipitated a discussion of an association's payment to NCYSA vs services received for challenge players.

Commissioner's Report.

A written report on the fall season was presented and reviewed.  91 teams were involved.  No significant problems were encountered, although one incident of referees canceling an afternoon of games invites better communication. The Commissioner will communicate with associations regarding this potential problem. A financial report was presented showing on-budget performance for the fall season with revenues of $4,950.00 and expenses of $4,852.73.  The Commissioner will further explore computer assisted scheduling.  The Commissioner noted that all of the League's forms are now on the website in PDF format

A written report on the fall 2003 MSSL tournament was distributed and read.  This report included all specific complaints received and a financial report showing net income of $9,645.18.  A full discussion of the tournament will be held in March.

The Executive Committee approved the Treasurer and the Commissioner acting at their discretion to deposit MSSL funds in a manner that earns interest.  The Treasurer will inform the Executive Committee of action taken in this regard.  Concern was expressed that any interest earned accrue to the MSSL and not the individual associations.  The commissioner reviewed our published policies and determined that policy 8E makes no mention of interest and only states the conditions where an association's Performance Bond deposit will be returned.

Spring 2004 Season Planning

The dates for the spring season were confirmed as starting on February 29th and ending on May 9th with Easter weekend off.  Associations are reminded to make sure that no field conflicts occur on dates where the NCYSA will pre-empt fields on Sunday for Classic play.   Very few U-15 and older teams have thus far indicated interest in playing this spring season.  Final decisions regarding older divisions will be made after intents to play are received.

The traditional option of U-11 teams splitting to play simultaneous 7v7 games will be continued for the spring season as will 7v7 play for U-10 teams.  (It is the MSSL's intent to harmonize with NCYSA 8v8 play next fall.)

The MSSL U-10 division was discussed with reference to travel, separate gender play, and differences in skill level of teams.  It was decided to divide the U-10 age group into two scheduling divisions for the spring season with the intent of better matching competitive levels for the purpose of better player development and motivation.  The initial division will be on the
 

MSSL Executive Committee
January 18, 2004 Minutes                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Page 2 of 2

basis of the fall experience of teams.  (Next fall we intend to query the association presidents for information as to how to best assign teams.  It is hoped that any travel burdens will be accepted in exchange for the benefits of more evenly matched games.  It is our intent to offer a girls division just as soon as there are sufficient numbers.

Fall Tournament Planning

The Executive Committee decided to accomplish the detailed review of tournament operations at our March meeting.  It was acknowledged that it is probably wisest to stay with the dates already reserved even with the competition for hotel space in Fayetteville.  The Executive Committee was satisfied with the performance of "Sideline Snapshots" photographers and authorized the Commissioner to engage them for our 2004 tournament.

Spring Tournament Possibility

The Commissioner relayed the request of Andrew (FSC) for MSSL to sponsor a spring tournament at the Fayetteville site.  The Executive Committee was not sure that this made sense as a League venture at this time, although there should be a significant number of MSSL teams interested in attending.  The Commissioner will communicate with Andrew of our intent to cooperate and promote any tournament that he may organize, but not to make it a official MSSL event.

Next Meeting Date

March 20, 2004 at 4:00 was set as our next Executive Committee meeting at the office of Lunday Riggsbee in Pittsboro

The meeting adjourned at 6:05 PM.
 

Respectfully submitted,
 

___________________________________________
John B. Hunter, Commissioner

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Present:  Diane Curfman, Fred Kull, Scott Miller,  Lunday Riggsbee, and John Hunter, Commissioner.  [Regrets: Dave Gunnels]

A quorum being present, the meeting was called to order at 2:10 PM.  Self introductions were made with an emphasis on what motivated each person to serve with the Mid State Soccer League.  The wealth of experience with youth soccer on the Executive Committee was impressive as was the dedication to its improvement.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of January 11, 2003 were approved as circulated and as posted on the web site.  The action of the Executive Committee of March 27, 2003 revising MSSL Policy 2-I (Game cancellations, notification, and forfeiting) was approved.

Appointment of Officers

The Executive Committee acted by acclamation to appoint the following persons to fill Mid State Soccer League offices for 2003-2004.

    President:  Fred Kull
    Vice President: Lunday Rigsbee
    Secretary:  Diane Curfman
    Treasurer:  Scott Miller
    Assistant Treasurer: Dave Gunnels
    President Elect: Lunday Rigsbee
       (Note: It was assumed that Fred Kull would serve two years as President.  Lunday will move to the Presidency in 2005 or sooner if necessary.)

Open Meetings

Fred Kull noted the absence of any observers at this meeting.  All present agreed that increased publicity needs to be given to the fact that Executive Committee meetings are open to any interested person and that member associations are encouraged to send representatives to participate in these meetings.  John Hunter will publicize this request on the web site.

Fall Season Planning

1. The dates for the Fall, 2003 season were confirmed as September 7th through November 2nd.

2. The fees and charges for 2003-2004 were reviewed.  The team entry fee was set at $50.00.  All other fees remain the same.  Member associations will be encouraged to send the fees in one check with the intent-to-play forms.

3. The policy of the small-sided play (7v7) option for our U-11s was reviewed.  The Executive Committee reaffirmed that this is an important feature of our league and is consistent with our emphasis on the development of the player.  Teams and associations will be encouraged to take advantage of this option. (See League Policy 2M.) 4. Scheduling policy with regard to travel was discussed.  The Commissioner will continue to make every effort to schedule matches with minimum travel time –especially for the younger age groups.  Whenever possible, the division of the League into North and South divisions will be accomplished.  The Executive Committee agreed that the note on the intent-to-play form regarding travel time will be eliminated and that teams will be expected to travel as assigned.  League Policies 1D and 2D are revised to reflect this policy

MSSL Executive Committee
Meeting, July 13, 2003

4. The MSSL policy of providing a single referee for U-10 games was reviewed.  It was felt that, for reasons of finacial burden, we would continue with a single referee for these games as our experience is that it has so far posed no problems although there was some possible concern regarding offside calls without assistant referees.  There followed some discussion of offside policy for this age, and it was generally felt that for developmental reasons, it was inappropriate to try to enforce this rule in a strict sense.  Children at this age can not be expected to keep track of the complexities of this rule or to be precisely positionally aware.  However, it was decided to try to introduce the concept by asking the referees to call offside only if a player was blatantly offside (either stationing him or herself at the opponent's goal, or many multiple yards offside clearly seeking an advantage) along with an explanation to the player anytime such a call was made.   We will monitor the implementation of such a policy for coach or player reaction.

5. Scheduling policy with regard to "home and home" schedules was discussed.  The current policy of attempting to schedule "approximately" half of the games as home games will be continued.

6. The problem of accommodating older (U-15/16) age teams was discussed.  We need to clearly communicate that the division will be offered only if sufficient teams actually register.  Further it was suggested that the NCYSA and other nearby Challenge leagues be contacted to see what schedule may be worked out.

7.  Associations will be reminded to be very clear as to the availability of fields on the two weekends that have been pre-empted by Classic for Sunday play so that we can schedule around this problem.

Tournament Planning

1. The Executive Committee confirmed the MSSL Tournament's competitive philosophy and its proposed cost structure (U-10: $250, all others: $350).

2. For the time being the tournament will remain at the Fayetteville Complex site only.  However, in the future, if the demand is clearly there for increasing in size and utilizing nearby fields, we will consider enlarging the tournament.

3. Unless some benefit from "sanctioning" the tournament through the NCYSA can be identified, we will continue to not apply for such sanctioning and save the incumbent cost.

4. With regard to support for organization and execution of the tournament, the Commissioner commented that the real need was for the actual conduct of the tournament.  Other tasks prior to the day before the tournament are routine and can be easily metered by the Director.  However, assistance for registration, field monitors, referee snacks, referee pay, scorers, t-shirt sales, etc. on the weekend of the tournament needs to be in place.

Commissioner Services Annual Contract

The Executive Committee discussed the Commissioner's compensation relative to his duties and responsibilities.  The Executive Committee offered the independent contractor Commissioner compensation at the rate of $50 per team registered for the fall and spring seasons and $50 per registered team in the MSSL tournament in his role as Tournament Director.  This offer was accepted by John Hunter for the 2003-2004 year.

Policy Issue from Annual Meeting

The Executive Committee acted on the recommendation of the Annual Meeting that complaints (with the exception of forfeits and some specific items in policy 7E) as a matter of good procedure be first taken to member associations before being brought to the League for resolution.  League Policies 7B, 7C, and 7E are revised to reflect this policy.

Smoke Free Policy

It was announced that at least two associations have a smoke-free policy on their fields.  The commissioner will publicize this development.

Next Meeting

The next Executive Committee meeting will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 4:00 at the Lunday Rigsbee offices in Pittsboro, NC.

The meeting adjourned at 4:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted:
 

_________________________________________
John B. Hunter, Commissioner
 
 

Present:  Carolina Soccer Club (Clayton) – Diane Curfman; Chapel Hill United (Rainbow) – Dave Gunnels;  Durham-Chapel Hill Strikers – Fred Kull;  Fuquay-Varina Athletic Association -Janice Robbins,  Milton Morgan;  Sanford Area Soccer League – Rick Guerrero; Triangle Futbol Club - Tim Kepley.  Commissioner - John Hunter.

President Tim Kepley welcomed the Representatives and conducted introductions.  A quorum was present representing 11 of 17 eligible votes.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the Meeting of Association Representatives held June 9, 2002 were reviewed by the representatives present and approved.

Commissioner’s Report

Commissioner John Hunter distributed a written report on the 2002-2003 season and the 2002 tournament and reviewed highlights of the year. Policy issues raised during the year were noted and deferred for later discussion.

Reports from Executive Committee

President Tim Kepley reported on the review the performance of the Commissioner for the year.  Decisions of the Executive Committee regarding the “bye” policy and other policies were explained.

Treasurer’s Report

A written report from the Treasurer was presented consisting of separate summaries of the regular season and the MSSL tournament.  A brief discussion and explanation of the league’s finances followed.  As planned, the seasonal year achieved revenues ($9,607.00) matching expenses ($9,606.50).  The fall tournament achieved a surplus of $5,971.75.

Bylaw Addition

Bylaws 4.2.1 and  4.4.7, proposed and circulated by the Executive Committee in March was approved by the representatives consisting of the following wording.

4.2.1  Any person, regardless of formal affiliation to a Member Association, is qualified for election to the Executive Committee if so voted by the Member Associations at the Annual Meeting and the provisions of  ByLaw 4.2 are met.  (The intent is to assure the qualification to serve on the Executive Committee of individuals whose expertise, dedication, and commitment  is unquestioned, but who no longer may have formal affiliation to a Member Association.)

4.4.7. President Elect. To provide for continuity of leadership, the Executive Committee shall appoint a President Elect with the expectation that this person will be elected and serve as President one year later. The President Elect may be any person (including the current President) who can reasonably be expected to be elected to the Executive Committee in the year of the next Presidency.

Executive Committee Election

Four nominations were put forward for two 2-year terms on the Executive Committee.  The representatives elected the following persons to serve these two year terms expiring in June of 2005.

        Elected:       Diane Curfman
                             Dave Gunnels

Policy Issues Discussion

The representatives discussed several MSSL policies.  Of  particular note was the issue of sportsmanship and proper behavior by parents and coaches.  The representatives were concerned that the proper channels be utilized for any redress of problems in this area.  In particular, the representatives recommended that the Executive Committee at its next meeting initiate a policy stating that redress of such problems begin at the association level and only be brought to the Commissioner by associations.

The issue of the disposition of any excess revenues from our annual tournament was discussed.  There was comfort that continuing the present policy for the time being was appropriate, but there was the expectation that the Executive Committee would be initiating action considering this issue during this next year.  Also discussed were the issues of team standings for the purpose of State Challenge Cup seeding, MSSL Tournament size and possible expansion, and U-11 small-sided league play.
 

There being no further business to come before the Representatives, the meeting was adjourned.
 

Respectfully submitted,

_______________________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner

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Present: Tim Kepley, Scott Miller, Greg Guerrero, Lunday Riggsbee, John Hunter, Commissioner, and Nick Novosel (SASL).

A quorum being present, President Tim Kepley called the meeting to order at 4:15 PM.  Commissioner John Hunter distributed a written report summarizing the fall season and the tournament, and outlining issues for the spring season.

Approval of Minutes.  The minutes of the Meetings of the Executive Committee held both at 1:00 and 4:00 on June 9, 2002 were distributed and unanimously approved.

NCYSA Membership

It was announced that formal approval of Mid State's membership in NCYSA had been voted on by NCYSA and that a requested new application and a check for $250 had been sent.  MSSL will be listed as a "Scheduling League".  We will be invited to attend NCYSA meetings and committee meetings, but not as a voting member.  Tim Kepley has been told that our board would be included under the NCYSA liability insurance.

Review of Fall 2002 Season

 Fall Season Statistical Review

 93 Teams Registered                 Associations Represented
        16  U-10 teams (coed)                Chatham Soccer League
        11  U-11 boys                             Carolina Soccer Club (Clayton)
          7  U-11 girls                              Durham-Chapel Hill Strikers (plus CH United)
        16  U-12 boys                             East Wake Soccer Association
          6  U-12 girls                              Fayetteville Soccer Club
        11  U-13 boys                             Fuquay-Varina Athletic Association
          8  U-13 girls                              Lumber River Soccer Association
          7  U-14 boys                             Neuse River Youth Soccer Assn (Goldsboro)
          9  U-14/15 girls                         Oxford Youth Soccer Association
          2  U-15/16 boys                       Sanford Area Soccer League
                                                           Sandhills Youth Soccer League
                                                           Scotland Youth Soccer Association
                                                           Triangle Futbol Club

Fall Season Operations Review

This was the best MSSL season yet in terms of smoothness of operations.  There was only a single forfeit, and only two games cancelled by teams (with notice).  Referee complaints were down, although there was concern in the Durham-Chapel Hill area, that there were often only two referees at a game.  Additionally, there was a single incident of no referees showing for a game in Lumberton.  (It was suggested that we should encourage the referee assignors to communicate and that, in particular, we would let Craig Wolfe know that he could tap referees from Sanford or even as far away as Laurenburg.)

The issue of mis-matches was discussed, and it was agreed that until such time as we could predictably schedule around this problem, that the Commissioner would continue to emphasize our current policy on sportsmanship and provide tips as to how coaches could mollify this problem when encountered.

There were two incidents of written complaints regarding the behavior of coaches and parents.  Each of these were handled by communicating with the association presidents involved, trusting in the good will and integrity of our associations to deal with such problems.  We trust in the ability of our association officials to handle these incidents even knowing that there will be serious differences of opinion regarding facts of the cases.  It was noted that we have yet to see a problem of this kind truly caused by players, but only by out-of-control parents and coaches.

The Commissioner was supported in cutting travel time by scheduling a "north" and "south" division whenever the numbers of registered teams allowed.  Isolated "distant" teams may still not have as many "home" games as they would like on their own fields, but we are committed to including them in league nonetheless.
 

Mid State Soccer League Executive Committee          Minutes, Page 2                                               January 11, 2003

2002 Tournament Review

The 2002 MSSL Fall Tournament was a huge success by any measure.  66 teams were accommodated, generally utilizing the Fayetteville complex to capacity.  There were virtually no significant complaints regarding the administration of the tournament.  The changes that were made to the rules and policies following our 2001 tournament seemed to work well.  In addition, the tournament director emphasized sportsmanship both in pre-tournament publicity and at the tournament site and this seemed to be effective.  (For next year it is recommended that the trophies awarded to the champions of the second place brackets not say "Champions, Second Flight".  Additionally, we will have three referees for even the U-10 round robin games next year.  The issue of tournament match reports with mistakes even though the winning coach is supposed to sign the forms will be handled by increased publicity to the referees and coaches and instructions to the field marshals.  We are committed to getting more volunteer assistance for next year's tournament by assigning each participating association specific tasks to be accomplished.)  Even though our tournament is modestly priced, we were able to clear about $6,600 ($5,600 *see below).  The Executive Committee will initiate discussion regarding the best use of these funds at our Annual Meeting.  It was decided to keep our tournament modestly priced, taking into account expected rising costs for facility rental, referees lodging, and trainer expense.  Tournament T-shirt sales accounted for about $1,600 in profit, excluding 38 shirts given away as premiums to referees and tournament officials.  Dates for future tournaments are set as 11/8-9/2003, 11/13-14/2004, 11/12-13/2005, and 11/11-12/2006.

Spring Season Planning

The dates for spring 2003 MSSL league play are from February 23 through May 4 (excluding Easter).  This will provide for a 10-game season finishing up a week before the NCYSA Challenge Cup preliminary weekend.  Intent to Play forms are to be received by the January 31 deadline.

The Executive Committee decided to offer a boys "High School" division (U-15 through U-18) for the spring if there was a minimum of four teams committed to this format.  In addition, we will accommodate U-10 through U-15 in our usual format.  (U-15 girls teams will be combined with the U-14 girls.)

Policy on Scheduling "Byes"

The "bye" policy utilized by the Commissioner for the past several seasons in scheduling games was supported and re-affirmed by the Executive Committee.  The Executive Committee specifically supported the policy of assigning "byes" (made necessary by an odd number of teams available to play on a given date) on a random basis or as dictated by the schedule.  Such assignment of byes should not be modified by the fact that a team may have already opted for an "open" date in their schedule thereby having two dates with no games scheduled.  The Executive Committee is convinced that this policy is logical and is the correct method to handle this problem and is fair.

Notifications of Schedule Changes and Team Responsibility to Verify

The Executive Committee decided on the following policies regarding schedule change notifications and the individual team's responsibility fo check and verify its scehdule.

    A.   If schedule changes need to be made after League play has begun, the Commissioner will email all effected parties (including association presidents and referee assignors).  If the change is within two weeks of the match, the commissioner will additionally phone the managers of each team.

    B.   It was confirmed that individual teams have the responsibility to verify their schedules and to check for any schedule changes regardless of League policies on notifications.  The League will promote the "Best Practice" of traveling team managers calling the home team a day or two before each match to be sure that no misunderstandings have occurred.

Interim Finance Report and Executive Session

The Commissioner presented financial reports for the fall season and the tournament.  The fall season was right on budget with $5,031 General Fund fees collected and expenses of $4,215.90.  The tournament accounting was presented with entry fee income of $18,360 and T-shirt sales of $3,358.  Total expenses of $15,047.08 were posted.  Costs were held down by finding referees who, for the most part, needed no lodging.  The Executive Committee met in executive session and decided to award the Tournament Director an additional $1,000 bonus for his work in organizing and conducting the tournament.   (*Such bonus modifies the net income for the tournament to about $5,600.)

Miscellaneous

President Tim Kepley reported that the NCYSA had decided to "seed" the Challenge Cup in May.  Since the MSSL does not keep standings, our seeded positions will be accomplished by postmark.

The Commissioner will obtain 1099 forms to submit to the IRS regarding fees received by him in 2002.  Greg Guerrero will provide the EIN.

The meeting adjourned at 6:20 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
 

____________________________________
John B. Hunter
Commissioner

Present:  Executive Committee members Tim Kepley,  Fred Kull,  Lunday Rigsbee, and Scot Miller.  Observers: Rick Guerrero, Mike Priest, Dave Gunnels, Mark Oats, Howie Thompson, and  Commissioner John Hunter.

Officers Appointed.  There being a quorum present, the Executive Committee acted to appoint officers for the 2002 - 2003 seasonal year.  The following persons were appointed to fill offices as follows:

 President:  Tim Kepley
 Vice President: Scot Miller
 Secretary:  Lunday Rigsbee
 Treasurer:  Greg Guerrero
 Assistant Treasurer: Fred Kull

President Elect.  In addition, the Executive Committee appointed Fred Kull as “President Elect” with the expectation that Fred will take the position of President in June of 2003 as appointed by the Executive Committee at that time.

Accounts Signatories.  The Executive Committee acted to approve a “resolution” for the purpose of adding to the signatories on the MSSL bank accounts at BB&T.  In addition to the Treasurer and the Assistant Treasurer,  Commissioner John Hunter was approved as a signatory.  The expectation is that John Hunter will be able to disburse funds on a more timely basis, while the Treasurer and/or assistant Treasurer will review all income and expenditures on an annual basis and present the annual financial report as required by League ByLaws.

There being no further business, the Executive Committee adjourned.
 

Respectfully submitted,

_______________________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner

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Present:  Triangle Futbol Club -Tim Kepley, Durham-Chapel Hill Strikers Soccer Club -Howie Thompson, Fred Kull, Fuquay-Varina Athletic Association -Mark Oats, Clayton Youth Soccer Association -Mike Priest, Sunbow Soccer -Dave Gunnels, Chatham Soccer League -Lunday Rigsbee, Scotland Youth Soccer Association -Scot Miller, Sanford Youth Soccer Association -Rick Guerrero.  Commissioner -John Hunter.

President Tim Kepley welcomed the Representatives and declared that a quorum was present.  Each person introduced themselves.

Minutes Approved.  The minutes of the Meeting of Association Representatives held July 14, 2001 were read by the Commissioner and unanimously approved as read and as posted on the web site.

Commissioner's Report.  Commissioner John Hunter reported and entertained questions on the 2001-2002 season and conduct of our inaugural League Tournament in November.  He also reviewed the establishment and use of the League web site, noting improvements that would be made for this following year.  The Commissioner also commented on the original goals stated when forming this League in 1997 and reaffirmed our commitment to pursuing a “family friendly” developmental league.

Ex Committee Actions.  President Tim Kepley reported that the Executive Committee had reviewed the work of the League Commissioner John  Hunter this past year and had approved retaining his services for this next year.  President Kepley also reported that the Executive Committee had reviewed and approved the annual financial report.  Copies of this report were distributed to all  Representatives present and comments solicited.  In addition to the Performance Bonds held in escrow for the member associations, the League ended the seasonal year with a balance of $3,633.23.  President Kepley also reported that the Executive Committee had approved a budget for next seasonal year.  This budget projects a surplus of $750 for the following year combining revenues and expenses of the regular season and the League tournament.  Copies of the approved budget were distributed to Representatives present.

Announcements.  Announcements to the Representatives included a Challenge tournament in Charlotte 8/31-9/2, MSSL Fall Season Dates, MSSL Intent to Play form Due date (8/10), and MSSL Tournament dates and due date (10/14).

Ex Committee Elections.  The Representatives confirmed that Executive Committee members Tim Kepley and Greg Guerrero would be serving the second year of their two-year terms in this coming seasonal year with their terms expiring in June of 2003.  The Representatives elected the following persons to serve two-year terms on  the Executive Committee expiring in June 2004.
  Fred Kull
  Scot Miller
  Lunday Rigsbee

General Discussion.  President Kepley solicited general comments and concerns from the Representatives.  It was noted that it has not been the practice in many locations to have the referee check the rosters and player passes for Challenge games.  The Commissioner will remind assignors that rosters and passes should be checked before each game.  There was also discussion of the potential scheduling problems posed by the Classic league deciding to play on two Sundays (9/22 and 10/6) this fall.  We are hopeful that we can successfully schedule around these dates and that teams will be willing  to play some games on Saturday.

There being no further business to come before the Representatives, the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

______________________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner
 
 

Present:  President Tim Kepley, Vice President Fred Kull, Secretary Lunday Rigsbee, Assistant Treasurer Scot Miller.  Observers: Rick Guerrero and  Commissioner John Hunter.
 

President Tim Kepley welcomed Executive Committee members  and declared that a quorum was present.

Approval of Minutes.  The minutes of the Meeting of the Executive Committee held January 13, 2002 were distributed and unanimously approved.

Fall Season Dates.  The Fall Season dates were approved as beginning on Sunday, September 8,  and ending on November 3, 2002.

Fall EC Meeting Date.   The fall Executive Committee meeting was set for September 28th at 4:00 PM.

MSSL Fall Tournament.  The MSSL Fall Tournament will be held on November 9 -10, 2002 as previously planned.  The Commissioner noted that expenses for this tournament are expected to be higher than last year due to increased fees from the soccer facility and the purchase of awards for second place teams.  All League teams will be strongly encouraged to consider our tournament.  Teams from other leagues will be accepted to complete brackets not filled by MSSL teams.  The policy of no guest players will continue.

Web Site.  The Commissioner reported on the League web site.  The Executive Committee approved the site as being the primary vehicle for communication within the league.

NCYSA Affiliation. The Executive Committee approved formally affiliating our League with the NCYSA as an associate member.  This membership costs $250 annually and is supposed to include liability insurance for Executive Committee members and the Commissioner who are not otherwise affiliated through an association or team.  President Kepley will check to be certain that such insurance coverage will apply with this affiliation.

7v7 Policy.  The “7v7” policy for U-11 teams in League play was discussed and it was decided to continue with our present policy of team election of this option.  It was noted once again that it will be important for the NCYSA and USYSA to move in the direction of small sided games before we can require teams play in this format.  We are pleased to note that there is support for this at the national level.

Forfeit Fines.  The Executive Committee acted to increase the fines for forfeiting a game to $100 for the first offense and $200 for a second offense in the same seasonal year.  While the Commissioner will be given some latitude to except teams in extreme cases, the general expectation is that all teams will
 
 

Protests review.  Several “protests’ of games this past year were reviewed.  The Commissioner is directed to track such complaints and take such action as necessary if a pattern is evident.  The Commissioner will continue to contact referee assignors to report any apparent problems with officiating.  The Executive Committee does not feel that a formal “protest” procedure is in keeping with the goals and philosophy of our League.  We are very consciously a developmental league and do not keep scores or standings.  Encouragement of sportsmanship and fair play are key in our league while W-L records have no meaning for our purposes.

Annual Financial Report.  Treasurer Greg Guerrero had prepared an annual financial report.  The Executive Committee reviewed and accepted this report.  In addition to the Performance Bonds held in escrow for the member associations, the League ended the seasonal year with a balance of $3,633.23.

2002-2003 Budget.  The Commissioner presented a proposed budget for the seasonal year 2002 - 2003.  Team fees are proposed to remain unchanged at $45 per season per team.    Administrative fees are projected to match team income while, tournament net income and T-shirt sales should account for an annual surplus of about $750.  90 teams are anticipated to participate in the fall season while 85 are expected in the spring.

Commissioner Performance Review.  The Executive Committee met in executive session to review the performance of the Commissioner for this past seasonal year.  Upon completion of the review, the Executive Committee stated their willingness to continue John Hunter as League Commissioner for the next seasonal year at a rate of $45 per registered team.

EC Nominations.  The Executive Committee constituted itself as a nominating committee (per Bylaw 4.7) and will present names to the Annual Meeting of Member Association Representatives in addition to any names which may be forthcoming at that meeting.

There being no further business, the Executive Committee adjourned, intending to meet to elect officers following the elections at the Annual Meeting of Member Association Representatives.
 

Respectfully submitted,
 

_________________________________________
John Hunter, Commissioner

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Present: Greg Guerrero, Sanford;  Tim Kepley, Triangle Futbol;  Scott Miller, Scotland;  Fred Kull, DCH Strikers;  Lunday Rigsbee, Chatham.

Observers: John Cirillo, TFC;  John Hunter, Commissioner.

Chairman Tim Kepley called the meeting to order at 2:10 PM.

Minutes of 10/20/01 Approved. Chairman Tim Kepley asked for comments or corrections to the Executive Committee minutes from the meeting held October 20, 2001.  There being no corrections, the minutes were approved as circulated.

Policy: Payment of Fines.  The Executive Committee decided that, in the future, if a team drops out of league play, the $200 fine should be paid by the team or the performance bond transferred and repaid by the association within a reasonable time in the same season.  It is not the intention of the league to allow an association to wait until the next season to pay the fine.

Policy: Referee Performance During Seasonal Play.  While we have not had many referee problems this past season, the Executive Committee decided that any serious complaint regarding refereeing should be forwarded to the local Association president who, if the problem can not be handled locally, will forward the information to the Commissioner who will investigate as appropriate.

Tournament Review.

The Executive Committee reviewed the conduct of the League Tournament held on November 10 and 11, 2001.  In general there was agreement that the tournament was well conducted in almost all regards.  Compliments and praise from many quarters indicated that this tournament was a success.  It was noted that this tournament was a "first" tournament experience for many families and that the numbers of spectators was very high compared to most tournaments.  The tournament, while low cost to the participating teams, was successful financially.

The Executive Committee decided to plan to hold this tournament as an annual event.  The Executive Committee was clear that the nature of this tournament was primarily for the purpose of offering a developmental and educational experience.

The Executive Committee affirmed 5 policy issues concerning future tournaments.
     1. Prizes (medals or the like) would be offered to first and second place teams.
    2. Tournament registration materials will clearly indicate that protests of game results or administrative decisions may not be considered. 

The Executive Committee specifically reviewed the facts surrounding issue of the U-13 boys tournament bracket seeding and resultant communications.  It was decided to take no action at this time.

The Executive Committee decided to increase the compensation of the Tournament Director by $684.

Treasurer's Report.  The Treasurer reported that the current Operating Fund balance was $6,338.43 and that the Performance Bond Account was $3,600.

Spring, 2002 Season.

Open Weekends.  The Executive Committee decided that only one open weekend would be granted per team per season.

Older Age Groups.  The Executive Committee decided that unless there was clearly advance demand for U-15 and older play during the same season as high school play in North Carolina, that the League would not offer such age/gender divisions for league play.  In spring 2002 the oldest age will be U-14 for girls, and U-15/16 for boys.

U-11 Scheduling.  The Executive Committee recommended that the Commissioner make use of neutral fields as appropriate to minimize travel time for U-11 teams.  (The Commissioner noted that in that age group, it was large enough that, for travel reasons,  it had been divided into north and south divisions in the fall and will be divided again this spring.)

U-10 Scheduling.  There was concern expressed that there was a wide diversion of skill levels within the U-10 division, even with in single associations.  It was decided in the spring season to allow the Commissioner to take into account such divergent team skill levels in scheduling the division so as to avoid too many mis- matched games.  The issue of whether the League should take a stand on recommending that U-10 teams be purposefully balanced so as to avoid the likelihood of severe mis-matches was postponed to be considered in the future.

Other Issues

Web Site.  The Commissioner was authorized to spend approximately $20 per month to set up a web site for the League.
 

 W/L Records.  The Executive Committee re-affirmed the policy not to record team records.  The League is not ready to get into the business of match reports and posting of game and individual data.  The issue of discipline was raised, and it was pointed out that we have a system of reporting coach and spectator ejections, cards, and other problems to the Commissioner by coaches and managers.  (See League Policy 7.E.)

NCYSA Affiliation.  The issue of official NCYSA affiliation for the League was discussed.  While we would be happy to provide the NCYSA with any information and data they may want, it was unclear what service the NCYSA would be to the League.  It was noted that each player, each team, and each association connected with our League already pays a fee to the NCYSA for services.  Chairman Tim Kepley asked Fred Kull to communicate with the NCYSA to obtain more specific information as to the benefits and detriments of formal NCYSA affiliation.

Future Meeting Dates.  The Executive Committee scheduled the next meeting date for the Executive Committee to be March 23 in the late afternoon, and established June 9th as the date for the Annual Meeting of Members (Associations).
 

These minutes respectfully submitted,

John B. Hunter,  Commissioner


Present: Greg Guerrero, Sanford;  Tim Kepley, Triangle Futbol; Scott Miller, Scotland; Fred Kull, DCH Strikers.

Observers: John Alexander, Clayton; Rick Guerrero, Sanford; Gary Giudo, Chatham; Nick Novosel, Sanford; Mark Overby, FVAA;  John Hunter, Commissioner.

Chairman Tim Kepley called the meeting to order at 1:10 PM.

Review of Fall Season Thus Far. (Through 44 games)

     A.   One team (U-13 Chatham) folded and collecting the $200 fine is still pending.
     B.   There have been three forfeits.  The Executive Committee decided as follows:  The Chatham U-13 team will have its forfeit fine subsumed in the $200 fine.  The Sunbow Torpedoes will have to pay the $50 fine, and the U-14 DCH  Arsenal will have the fine waived this time on account of  very unusual last minute circumstances.  It is decided to  re-publicize a strong statement that teams are EXPECTED to travel and play even if they have only seven players - especially if last minute changes are involved.
     C.   Refereeing issues have come up in two instances.  The EC is clear that we will continue to work with local assignors and publicize an expectation of acceptance of  refereeing to all of our teams.
     D.   Thunderstorm procedures and expectations will be better publicized before the spring season.
     E.   The EC was satisfied that the few complaints about fields were being resolved as best possible.
     F.   It was decided to put street addresses on the fields maps (where known) to assist teams in finding instructions on the internet.

Spring Season Dates Established.  The Executive Committee decided that the spring season would begin on February 24th and run every Sunday through May 5th with the exception of Easer (3/31).

No Rain-Out Rescheduling Policy.  The No Rain-Out Rescheduling policy adopted for the fall seems to be working very well.  The Executive Committee decides to continue this policy for future seasons unless specifically changed.

Travel times and  "home and home" scheduling.

     A.   The Executive Committee discussed the issue of travel times, especially for younger teams.  There will be no policy change for the spring season, but for the fall 2002 season, it was decided to limit U-10 teams to local  travel only, and limit U-11 teams from traveling more than an hour or so if at all possible.
 

      B.   It was recognized that "home and home" scheduling is not always possible and should not necessarily be the expectation.  The Executive Committee accepted the policy that as a goal the Commissioner would schedule approximately half of each season's games at a team's home field.  However it was recognized that, especially for distant or isolated teams, a neutral field may have to be substituted for a home field if our travel time policy was applied.

Bank Accounts Opened at BB&T

Treasurer Greg Guerrero announced that he had opened bank accounts for the League's funds at BB&T.  He opened two accounts; one for a general fund and one for the bond deposits.  The Executive Committee agreed ("resolved") that BB&T is a designated depository for League funds and that any one signature of the President, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer or of other persons from time to time designated as signatories by the Executive Committee would be sufficient for conducting transactions in League accounts.

Tournament Progress Report.

     The Commissioner reported on progress in organizing out first League tournament.  Volunteers are needed for specific tasks.  Organization is going well, but, due to the short lead time, there will not be time to have patches made, although medals and ribbons are available on short notice.  It was clear that this will be a low level tournament and the emphasis will be on fun and not on highly competitive winning.  It was decided not to give team trophies.  There will be a tournament T-shirt.  Tom Rowlee, the Fayetteville referee assignor, if getting together enough referees to work this tournament.   Since the Raleigh Shootout will be utilizing many of the more experienced referees, some of the referees at our tournament will have to be less experienced.  It was judged that this would be acceptable given the level of our tournament and given our emphasis on development.

Web Site.

The Commissioner stated his intention to try to set up a web site for the league, time permitting, over the holiday season.  The Executive Committee expressed its support of this venture and decided to fund the site assuming that the cost was nominal.  The Commissioner will report on progress and costs at the January meeting.
 

These minutes respectfully submitted,

John B. Hunter, Commissioner

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Present: Greg Guerrero, Sanford;  Tim Kepley, Triangle Futbol; Scott Miller, Scotland; Lundy Rigsbee, Chatham.

Observers: John Cirillo, Triangle Futbol; Rick Guerrero, Sanford; Gary Giudo, Chatham, David Gunnels, Sunbow; Steve Katz, Strikers; Mike Priest, Clayton; Richard Sheetz, Fayetteville; Rick Will, Fuquay Varina.  John Hunter, Commissioner.
 

Fall 2001 Schedule

The Executive Committee voted 4-0 to begin the fall season on September 9, 2001 and to schedule 9 consecutive weeks.  Any rain-outs will not be made up.

Resolution to Open Bank Account(s)

The Executive Committee voted 4-0 to authorize the Treasurer and/or Assistant Treasurer to open bank accounts for League funds in such banks as may be convenient for them.

League Tournament

The Executive Committee voted to ask Richard Sheetz to investigate the possibility of holding a League tournament at the Fayetteville soccer complex in mid November or the first weekend in December.  Pending which weekend being available, the Executive Committee will appoint a tournament committee to plan a League tournament.

Schedule of Fees

The Executive Committee voted 4-0 to approve a fee schedule as presented by the Commissioner.  Team entry fees will be a total of $45.  $10 is to be payable by each association.  A performance deposit of $200 will be payable by each association for each ten teams entered up to U-14 and $300 for each three teams U-15 or older.  A $200 fine will be assessed if a team drops out of the league during the season, a $50 fine plus referees fees for a forfeited game, and a $50 fine for each game where previously committed field is unavailable.

2001 Budget

The Executive Committee voted 4-0 to approve a fall 2001 budget based on paying the Commissioner $35.00 per team in addition to printing, mailing, phone, and miscellaneous expenses.

Field Commitment Ratio

The Executive Committee voted 4-0 to change the ratio at which associations must provide fields for play to one appropriately sized field for each four teams entered in the League.

Officers Elected

The Executive committee acted to appoint the following officers to one year terms. President: Tim Kepley,  Vice-President: Fred Kull,  Secretary: Lundy Rigsbee, Treasurer: Greg Guerrero,  Assistant Treasurer: Scott Miller.
 

Respectfully submitted,

John Hunter, Commissioner
 
 

Present: John Cirillo, Triangle Futbol; Greg Guerrero, Sanford; Rick Guerrero, Sanford; Gary Giudo, Chatham, David Gunnels, Sunbow; Tim Kepley, Triangle Futbol; Steve Katz, Strikers; Scott Miller, Scotland; Mike Priest, Clayton; Lundy Rigsbee, Chatham; Richard Sheetz, Fayetteville; Rick Will, Fuquay Varina.  John Hunter, Commissioner.
 

The meeting opened with introductions, a presentation by the commissioner, and announcements.

The representatives discussed moving quickly to find out if there was enough "critical mass" for adding an older girls division to the League this fall and to also see what possibilities there were for older boys.  Each representative will poll his/her association and report any possibilities to the commissioner via E-mail ASAP.

The representatives indicated their wish to include Johnston County in our projected service area in addition to the 16 counties shown on the map presented by the commissioner.  It is the intention of the League to move to a "North-South" divisional status as soon as possible to ease travel times.

A secret ballot vote was taken for service on the Executive Committee for 2001-2001.  The following persons were elected to serve:

     Greg Guerrero
     Tim Kepley
     Fred Kull
     Scott Miller
     Lundy Rigsbee
 

Respectfully submitted,

John Hunter, Commissioner
 

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