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Letter from the Presidents
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Letter from the Presidents
Smoky Mountain Soccer Club
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Impact United Soccer Association
| November 14, 2007
Dear Soccer Friends and Families,
Many of you have probably heard rumors of “big things” happening in Knoxville soccer. The purpose of this letter is to let everyone know the facts. We can assure you that the truth is more exciting than anything you may have heard. The story begins about 5 months ago when a few people began talking about the possibility of unifying competitive soccer in Knoxville. This eventually led to a meeting about 5 weeks ago between the major soccer entities in Knoxville. This was a significant, historic, and unprecedented event. For the first time ever, representatives from these organizations, who have been intense competitors for years, actually sat down together in the same room to discuss the possibility of working together. This was an open and honest discussion of differences in philosophy and organization. People in that meeting were open to the possibility and acknowledged the potential benefits to all the families and players of competitive soccer in Knoxville. This has led to a series of meetings where various organizational schemes were discussed. We have begun to establish a trust that has never before been seen in Knoxville.
We would also like to dispel some of the misunderstandings that have emerged. This venture and these discussions have been conducted by equal parties looking to improve soccer in this town. None of the clubs are on the verge of “folding.” In fact, it would be easier to maintain the status quo. We could all easily go on as we are, trading players, teams, coaches, and competing for field space each year. However, most of the parties believe that combining our organizations is fundamentally the right thing to do. No single person is behind this. This is a combined effort. Compromises will be necessary, but consider what we all can gain:
• combined resources
• combined player pool
• combined coaching staff
• greater influence on county government for facility improvements
We truly believe this is a great opportunity.
At this stage, Impact and SMSC have agreed to move forward with this effort to create a new club focused on giving every player, regardless of level of play, the best club possible for Knoxville families to enjoy. We believe that it is in the best interest of everyone involved in competitive soccer to have a united club where we all work together to promote the sport in a positive manner.
Director Announcement
To help answer some questions that may arise we have put together Frequently Asked
Questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
(regarding the Merging of Smoky Mountain Soccer Club and Impact Soccer Club)
Q: Why are the Clubs merging?
A: The leadership from both clubs has met several times over the last few months and has found that there are far more similarities between the clubs than differences. There has been encouragement from parties in both organizations. Both clubs are community based and focused on the individual development of each and every player regardless of skill level, age, or gender. We will be able to more efficiently utilize existing fields, equipment, and leverage our voice within the community. We will be able to more effectively support our members by teaming our outstanding and dedicated volunteers.
This combination of players, families, coaches, and volunteers will allow us to provide more options for each player to play on the appropriate level of team. We will have several levels of teams for all age groups, from Recreational to Premier, so there is a suitable option for every player and coach.
In addition, combining our clubs significantly enhances our ability to build high performing teams at all levels. Both clubs have a history of success with numerous State Cup Championship teams and exceptional coaching staffs. We want to strengthen these teams more and allow all players to compete on an even higher level. In all, we expect to field approximately 50 or more teams.
The board members from both clubs are enthusiastic and truly believe this is best possible situation for soccer in our communities and for soccer in Knoxville!
Q: Are the clubs merging, or is one club in control?
A: This is truly a merger of equals that is being carried forward with the highest level of cooperation and support from all involved. We intend to be the model organization for youth soccer, and sports in general, with an unwavering focus on ensuring that the good of the players and their families comes first.
Q: What is the Club name?
A: We plan on selecting a new name for our club. The current name that has been discussed is FC Alliance. FC stands for Futbol Club and Alliance stands for the coming together of the soccer community. We will also develop a new shield or logo and select new colors.
Q: What will the structure look like?
A: The club will be controlled by an Executive Board like all clubs. The Executive Board will be structured such that there is balanced representation from both clubs. The day to day soccer activities will be run by a Coaches’ Board, made up of equal representation from each club, instead of one Executive Director. Each club will have two representatives that make up this Coaches’ Board. Directors, another level of management, will be added to assure every player is looked after.
Q: Will the fees change?
A: Both clubs have very similar fee structures, so the fees will be comparable to what they are now.
Q: What impact will the merger have on coaching assignments for the club?
A: Under the leadership of our Coaches’ Board, we believe our club will now have one of the most talented coaching staffs in Tennessee. The Coaches’ Board will manage the coaching assignments for next season, with the intentions of keeping coaches from both organizations with their current teams whenever feasible. We will be implementing a guideline to rotate coaches approximately every 2 years. There can be exceptions where a coach will remain assigned to a team for greater or less than 2 years. Our combined coaching staff will offer players greater variety and opportunity for exposure to highly skilled coaches with diverse backgrounds and outstanding ability.
Q: What colors and uniforms will the club wear?
A: We will have new uniforms for all players in the new color scheme with the new club logo. The colors that have been discussed are similar to the LA Galaxy of Major League Soccer.
Q: When will the new club start?
A: Fall 2008
Q: Will I be expected to purchase new warm-ups or backpacks?
A: All players will need a new uniform, but they will not be required to purchase new warm-ups or backpacks. Warm-ups and backpacks will be available for purchase if desired, and discount packages will be available for teams wanting additional items.
Q: When will tryouts be scheduled?
A: Tryouts will take place on the first day allowed by Tennessee Soccer.
Q: How will the assignment of fields be handled for games and practice?
A: Field space is limited, but we now have more practice and game options. The Club’s Field Coordinator will be working closely with the Board of Directors, Coaches’ Board, and the coaches in order to maximize the use and time of all field locations.
Q: Will the club remain a non-profit entity?
A: Yes, the club will remain a non-profit legal entity.
Q: What is going to happen to the two websites?
A: Our goal is to combine the websites once the merger is complete.
Q: Will the tournaments hosted by both clubs continue to be offered?
A: Tournaments are meaningful fundraisers for the club. We will evaluate the current tournaments to see how we can maximize their potential.
Q: Does the club need additional volunteers to assist with managing the tournaments and day-to-day operations?
A: Volunteers are always welcome. There are many tasks both large and small that are available to interested volunteers. This is also an opportunity to offer your ideas for the club’s continued growth and improvement.
Feedback, both positive and constructive, is always welcome. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions or comments.
Q: What will happen with our current clubs until tryouts?
A: Each club will remain the same.
Randy Denton Chris Kubick
President of Impact USA President of Smoky Mountain Soccer Club
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Posted on Thursday, November 15, 2007 (Archive on Monday, January 01, 0001)
Posted by JillBuckley25 Contributed by
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