SCRA Presidents Message
April, 2009
It’s that time again to give you an update on what’s happening within the association and around in the soccer community. I hope you are getting some games in, as few as they may be, as we head towards summer. We are in the middle of State & National Cup for olders and so far all of you that have stepped up have done a wonderful job. Some of you have driven all the way up to Lancaster which is tough because of the long drive there and back. I happened to take that drive and got so entwined with talking soccer, we forgot our turnoff and ended up in Victorville. What a long but interesting desert drive.
State & National Cup Tournament:
Please make sure you leave early and arrive 45 minutes before your matches due to parking, check-in and detours. Some of you have cut it pretty close risking being replaced by tournament officials. On forfeits, please make sure to contact Jerry Zimmerle so we can send in the documentation for your game fees.
LNYSA Tournament:
It appears that we will not be supporting the tournament as previously thought on May 16th and 17th. The tournament directors informed us that the tournament was being scaled down and they did not need any of our help. We wish them luck and hopefully next year they will have enough team interest to ask for our services.
State Referee Committee Changes:
Thomas Bobadilla announced a re-organization to the State Referee Committee. Beginning in 2010, Penny Rehm’s registrar position will be absorbed within Cal-South (June 2009). Cal-South will also be working to consolidate both youth and adult programs to optimize resources and save money. Stay tuned for further details.
Questionnaire Survey Results:
As you are aware, we sent out a survey to all the membership last month and the results indicated for the most part, the SCRA Board is in sync with our general membership where the association is heading. You liked the friendly atmosphere, the camaraderie and openness of the Board. You really liked our efforts to improve the quality of the organization promoting badge upgrades and initiating and improving our internal ranking system. You also gave important feedback which we are trying to implement; You want your assignments at least a week ahead so you can plan your weekend. You want more instruction for new referees. You want a mentor program. These are initiatives we are working on and hope to implement on a consistent basis.
Calendar of Events:
Spring CSL season – Ongoing
Older youth, State and National Cup tournaments - Ongoing
General Membership Meetings – Tuesday May 5th & June 1st, 7:00 pm at the Norman Murray Center
Referee Refresher Clinic – Saturday, May 9th, 9:00 am – 11:00 am at Norman Murray Center
Lightning Carlsbad Cup 2009 Tournament - July 18th & 19th
Quick Update on Sergio Robleto:
As you may recall, a couple of months ago, Sergio Robleto underwent major heart surgery after suffering a heart attack while officiating a high school soccer game. He continues to make progress each and every day while following the order’s of both his doctor’s and his other half.
His road to recovery has not been easy but he has persevered through hopefully the worst and is now focusing on rehabilitation to build on his strength and endurance.
He recently completed a base line stress test in line with his rehabilitation schedule and hopes to join us in the future at one of our general membership meetings.
He is very appreciative to all of you and wanted me to convey his thanks for all your thoughts, prayers and get-well wishes. Let’s all continue to wish him well on his continued road to recovery. As always, I will continue to keep you posted until he is again back in action.
Remember, that you do make a difference. Let’s continue to work together and be the best you can be. Until we meet again, be safe, healthy and happy….
Sincerely,
Marcel Caruana
President
South Coast Referee Association