At the last Athletic Council Meeting, AYSO was informed that the City had asked the La Mirada Athletic Council to evaluate other programs to replace AYSO in case AYSO region 22 will be unable to comply with the Usage Agreement by January, 2008.
The only issue AYSO has not been able to comply with is the item that requires us to show that our local AYSO region is a 501-C(3) corporation based in La Mirada. Unfortunately, this differs from AYSO's organizational structure that they've had since inception over forty years ago and successfully use to serve over 1,000 other regions just like ours.
I am working intensively with AYSO to try to see if there is some way that we can accommodate this. I don't yet know if this will be possible, or not. But, keep in mind that in order to accommodate La Mirada, it would be the first time in AYSO's history that it worked with a region in this way, and that AYSO national would have to change many business systems internally in order to accommodate this in a very short amount of time.
One of the programs being evaluated (and perhaps the only one) is called CALSOUTH. It is the program utilized in Whittier by the W.A.Y.S. organization. In the last Board meeting of AYSO Region 22, Coach Bob Davis made a pitch for the organization, saying "Our kids would not notice the difference".
Others have said that while the program has a competitive program that many would like to see in La Mirada (perhaps as a complimentary program to AYSO's recreational league), that CALSOUTH's recreational youth soccer program and coach and referee training programs do not measure up to AYSO's.
I encourage anyone interested to do your own investigation. As a La Mirada resident/parent, I want to see the best of all choices for our youth. I don't want the best choices precluded because of language in the City's Usage Agreements.
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Just to get this going- don’t be afraid of something new and the facts-
The Rec. program is anything WE want it to be. The kid’s u5 - u14 will play against each other just like they do now, there will be no difference IF YOU ALL vote it that way. There is an inter-city league for the olders. They really have "real State Championships and real Nation Championships" check it out http://www.calsouth.com/youthsoccer_tournamentstate.htm
Secondly I am the highest rated Ayso coach around and that is three steps down from the highest level that USSF offers. Check it out http://www.calsouth.com/coachyouthsoccer_overview.htm
Thirdly the ref program I can't really speak about but I know that if you want to know the facts check it out at http://www.calsouth.com/referee_youthsoccer.htm#refereeclinics
It is unfortunate that the city sees fit to look at a change but the kids must keep playing and this is the best option. My guess is that the people that are making comments about this program haven't REALLY been apart of it. Just like any program it are what the parents what it to be. I have been involved with both programs for many years and don't want AYSO to leave, but the city is looking at other options for the city's kids and WE MUST HAVE SOMETHING FOR THEM.
There are a few differences most importantly all members over 18 and in good standing have a vote yearly at the AGM for the exe. board. We make up our own bylaws -but they must conform to the rules of the 501c3 tax code, insurance requirements and city rules.
got to get back to work now.
My goal with either AYSO or another program is that my children get to play. They are recreational players and we want them in a program that recognizes that for what it is.
At your suggestion, I have been reviewing the website for CalSouth.
I don't see where the fees associated with this program are located. If the coaches and referees are paid personnel and not volunteers, then what additional cost does this add to registration?
Is registration open to everyone?
How would we go about getting more than 80 coaches that are certified to Cal South requirements? There is a fee for coaching classes from $15 up to over $100 and classes start at 5 hours long.
AYSO Reg 22 requires every child to play 3 quarters. Cal South only requires 2 quarters. Is this something the membership would vote on to change? It's a huge advantage to our program now and I don't believe the soccer community as a whole would want to change this.
Are the teams balanced and if so, by whom?
One of the negatives stated about AYSO, is the region has no power and is controlled by Area. It seems there is an upper level of management by CAL South, as well. How do they fit in to the picture?
Who would make up our "own" by laws? Are these laws voted on by all good standing members? (I'm assuming that means all parents who have a registered player in the league get to vote.)
Perhaps yourself and those who feel Cal South is the best option for the children of La Mirada, could start their own blog outside of the AYSO Reg 22 website to answer these questions.
I am not impressed with the CalSouth program when it comes to their special needs players. All the information and pictures make it look like a play date, not a soccer program. The age limit is 18 years old and we have at least a dozen players 18 and older. We can not forget the pluses AYSO offers our special needs players. We are able to play other VIP teams in our area. The TOPS program which is CalSouth's VIP program is not strong nor does it have many teams. AYSO has gone out of their way as has our own La Mirada Region 22 to make a great program for our special needs players. The average soccer player has many options other than AYSO. The special needs players have few. If you have any doubts about the level of soccer our teams play, come out to see a game. We play every Saturday at 10:00 am at Behringer Front. Let's not do our special needs players a disservice by jumping into a program that leaves them out or offers a lower level program. The only other option VIP has is to join AYSO in Whittier or La Habra if they are forgotten. We have almost 60 players. Many have siblings playing on other teams in Region 22 so let's do the right thing and really insure the "Everyone Plays" motto we have had for 35+ years in La Mirada.
Hey everyone I would like you all to look at the difference between the 2 special needs programs. (these are copied off the websites)
AYSO Soccer
AYSO VIP Program provides a quality soccer experience for children - and adults - whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. VIP teams may include those who are
» Blind or visually impaired
» Amputees or conditions that impair mobility
» Mentally or emotionally challenged
» Autistic
» Downs Syndrome
» Cerebral Palsy
These kids are Very Important Players (VIP) in AYSO. We recognize that all children need to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. The VIP program offers that acceptance and carries our philosophy of Everyone Plays® to new heights - giving everyone a chance to play.
Program Goals
Kids with special needs are estimated to make up approximately 10% of the school-age population. Special schools and classrooms can isolate these children so the VIP Program has been structured to integrate our special kids into the rest of AYSO by using "buddies" from non-VIP teams to help these players both on - and off - the field. Our goals for every participating player are
» have fun playing soccer
» understand the fundamentals of the game
» learn teamwork and fair play
» increase positive self-esteem
» become more physically fit
» meet and be comfortable with new people
Everyone Plays
VIP helps more than just the players. Buddies and other volunteers increase their appreciation and understanding of individuals with special needs. They find their lives greatly enriched by their involvement with their new VIP friends. For parents thinking they would never see their children playing a sport or making new friends, VIP gives them joy and hope. They are able to relax and enjoy watching their children having fun like other kids, perhaps for the first time.
Teams can have as few as five players, may be co-ed, and as with all AYSO teams, VIP teams are balanced with players rated by size and physical ability. Older and younger players form their own divisions, too, when numbers allow.
Getting a Program Started
VIP programs start small. In fact, you can start a VIP program with just a single team that plays a regular AYSO team. The program is designed to be flexible and creative. It need not be limited to one Region, either. Players can be drawn from several neighboring Regions or Regions may form an Area-wide program. Ensuring the success of players and volunteers in VIP is a priority, so each VIP program and operates within the existing structure of an AYSO Region to ensure that volunteers and players have the full support of the Region and it's resources. Organizing a VIP program is easier than you might think. There are potential VIP players in your local schools and communities. These kids, with your help, can have the benefits of sports participation in a supportive, fun environment. To receive a VIP packet of information outlining everything you'll need to get started, call the AYSO NSTC at (800) USA-AYSO, or (310) 643-6455, ask for the Programs Department.
Contact Us for more information
(http://soccer.org/Programs/VIP)
Cal South
Overview
Are you living your dreams? When parents are expecting a child, they have dreams for their unborn baby. They dream of a super athlete, a great scholar, and a popular child who will grow up healthy and happy. They dream of dates, high school graduation, college, marriage and grandchildren. When their child is born, they incorporate their child’s dreams into their own. So dreams change as their child grows. Sometimes dreams disappear when they lose their child. Their dreams are gone forever.
When a child with “special needs” is born to parents, their dreams die also. Dreams are replaced with the reality that their child will have to struggle with health, school and acceptance. With such challenges, these parents can create new dreams.
TOPSoccer is part of that dream. TOPSoccer, The Outreach Program for Soccer, is a community-based soccer program for young athletes with physical and mental disabilities athlete that provides a safe and fun environment for their child to participate in organized sports. These athletes compete with athletes of similar abilities. Any youth player between the ages of 4-19 years old having a physical or mental disability that limits their ability to perform at the level of play they have chosen to participate is eligible for the program. Emphasis of this program is on development, training, and providing meaningful participation rather than on competition. TOPSoccer’s goal is to enable the thousands of young athletes with disabilities to become valued and successful members of CYSA-South.
The TOPSoccer program has been available to these athletes in Junior United Soccer Association since1992. Programs have been started in the city of Orange, Long Beach, Carlsbad and Yucaipa. But the need for more programs remains. There are many athletes with “special needs” that need a place to play. And they need teams to compete against.
A successful TOPSOCCER program has the following:
• Placement of players by ability not age
• Highlight players' ability rather than their disability
• Make players have a meaningful experience, not just a token player
• Make players achieve desired goals without assistance
• and FUN! FUN! FUN!
Come be a part of our dream. The dream where every child who wants to play can compete at his/her own level with players of similar abilities. You can make dreams come true!!! Contact the CYSA-S TOPSoccer Chairperson to learn how you can make a difference.
Additional information can be obtained by visiting the USYSA TOPSoccer site where you can find informative resources such as Parent's Guide and Grant application to start a program in your league.
For further information or contact Sandy Castillo at sandjules@cs.com or (714) 524-3354.
(There is also a listing of the Top Soccer Programs in the area on the site http://www.calsouth.com/soccer_disabled.htm)
If anyone has any questions reguarding the two programs please feel free to email me at vip@ayso22.org
This is great as far as the cost there is no difference between rec. programs. Registration is about $17.00 for the year that includes spring, other cost would be uniforms etc. Coaches and trainers don't get paid in the rec. program, ref can be if we want but don't have to. the WAYS use their snack shack money to pay the ref and have a VERY good ref preogram, because they chose to. CYSA would be the insurance just like AYSO but we would have our own say as to how things are run LM. Ayso only req. 2-quarter play Region 22 has changed it to 3 qtr. and yes that could be voted on BY ALL THE MEMBERS.
Every kid in LM can play if they choose.
Yes all the coaches and refs will need to be re-certified but cost consideration will be made.
New bylaws will be made and approved by all active members, what does that mean- anyone that is currently playing or volunteering will be able to vote on the NEW bylaws and ALL members of the board, without anyone saying who can or can't be a member.
We aren't saying what is the best option it may be our only option, good idea about the blog will get to it latter this weekend.
As far as the VIP program I can’t speak to it so “we” are going out to check it out and see if it meets out needs.
Good soccer to all
Natalie and Jolene I don't want to start a fight but you can't judge a book by its cover and I think the VIP program is great. It will take a lot to match that program. But lets not forget what is happening here in our city IF Ayso can't meet the cities requirements then we have to find another program for all the kids, and that is all we are trying to do, keep all the kids playing period. If the Top-Notch program isn't up to par and the VIP program is the best direction for the kids then I bet an arrangement could be made to do both.
Love and kisses
My original concern was about the VIP Team but I also have a son who plays at La Mirada AYSO. Now I am wondering how they can run a program on $17.00 per player? I think this number is way to low. Alot of people will read this and say yes lets change because of the cost. I am also concerned about the paying of coaches/trainers and referees. We ahve not been able to sustain a snack shack for years as the parents don't feel it is necessary to volunteer their time to help the league and take their turn in the snack shack. My guess is that the players that pay more (non-rec teams) will have field priority and there won't be a level playing field like we have right now with AYSO. Does the rec program include players over 14 or do they have to qualify for the club type teams or not play? To me this means that everyone does not get to play. I think we need to think this out and look at other options. Are there any other options out there? The VIP Team has options, we can always go to Whittier AYSO or La Habra AYSO. I would like to have information from more than just one group. Does anyone know of any other soccer programs out there? Can Calsouth and any other program come to La Mirada and answer questions, in other words sell their program. Remember that part of the money we pay for registration goes to whatever program we bring in and that is thousands of dollars each season. Someone wants that money and they should be willing to come out and sell their program to the parents, coaches and referees. Bob I don't know what the answer is but we have never had the problems we are having in all the years (15+) I have been involved in AYSO. I don't know why the city has these policies nor why AYSO won't let us get our own tax ID number. I do know that we need options and only having one is not good enough. There have got to be more leagues/organizations out there.
Didn’t you read my pervious statements about cost? I just want to make this clear if anybody has a plan to get your kids a soccer league to play in step up to the plate and get it done it will save me a lot of time. I hope that a lot of people read this and ask questions before making judgements. The snack shack is shut down because it will cost about $40k to bring up to acceptable levels. The five many pillars of AYSO are what, do you know? They will also be the same in the new league The real only difference is that you all will get to vote for the BOD each year that’s it and is controlled by the residents of La Mirada. Do you think that the other city’s that have rec. programs other then AYSO don’t have quality soccer program.
The Registration cost is about $17 plus cost of uniforms and other expenses my guess is that the cost will that of about what you are paying now. Where are you all getting your info about paying coaches and trainer and ref's. Just let me try and explain some things. First CYSA is the group that insures your kids just like AYSO does, basically CYSA is just insurance for your kids. Second who ever is going to run and participate in La Mirada soccer will make local rules-bylaws-game schedules ETC. Thirdly kids 12 and under will play games at home just like they do now no real difference –same rules if you choose same fields same size ball ETC. The game is not any different, coaches will need to be re-certified as will the ref’s just the same as if they were certified with USSF and coming to AYSO, neither group accepts the others certifications. The kids U14 and up can play against themselves if there are enough teams or they can travel just as the U16 and up do now. Do you think that other cities don’t have rec’s programs for their older kids? Yes we are afraid of change but we may not have a choice .
REMEMBER I AM SPENDING MY TIME TO HELP YOUR KIDS. I DON’T HAVE ANY KIDS PLAYING AND I DON’T CARE WHO’S BANNER WE PLAY UNDER BUT THE KIDS WILL BE PLAYING SOCCER IN LA MIRADA PERIOD. And as far as the VIP program Ver the top notch program don’t judge until you have seen both, just as you would when making any important decision, don’t judge a book by it’s cover. I really hope that AYSO stays but if they don’t someone needs to step up and get something going for your kids. Because if they don’t will you. Lastly it is way to early to talk a new league right AYSO won’t let your kids down and step up to the plate and comply.
Ponce,
Had a question about this tax ID # that our city has decided to have a problem with..What have we done the past years( I think 35) that we have had AYSO and what do the surrounding cities do about it do they have there own ID #???Seems to me that you guys have already made up your mind and have asked the RC tasks that he will not be able to conform with..I cant speak for the other parents but I dont see a problem with bringing another program into the city and let the parents decide which is best for there children..I have been with Ayso for only a couple of years now but it seems like a fine program..Yes I dont always agree with the decisions they make but they have the best interest of the kids in mind..You know there are always bitter people out there and they will always bad mouth the program if they feel they have been wronged so bring on another program and let the parents make the decision just like we offer LMGSA and Bobby Sox or Pony and Little League if you dont like one you can always try the other...The decision to get rid of AYSO by January is going to affect the kids that are still playing why would you not at least wait until the season is completely over before making your decision..lets not burn that bridge with AYSO because the grass is not always greener on the other side...
Ponce,
My question was about the tax ID#
that has come up..From what we have heard there was some items that had to be taken care of by the RC and he is trying to adhere to all of them but ther may be a problem when it comes to the Ayso ID#..Does the LA Mirada require something different then the surrounding cities in regards to this ID#..I thought all AYSO programs were covered with the same ID#..is this true or not???Is it also true that the city will be taking away the use of fields come Jan if there is no solution?? If so do you not think you are hurting the kids that have had the opportunity to make the allstars..why not wait until the season is completly over before deciding that..Thanks for any help you can give..
Ponce,
Thank you for answering the questions I had asked. When you say the tax ID# is not La Mirada based how is it that the city excepted it in the past..Has something changed this year that is not acceptable?? What do other cities with Ayso do???? As far as I know the season has potential to play into Jan or Feb. depending how good the tourney or allstar teams do..Taking away the fields from the kids then just doesnt seem like the right thing to do. Maybe we can think about the impact it will have on those fortunate kids that get to keep playing in either allstars or tourney team..Being that you are involved with softball allstars every year you would maybe understand that there are some kids who take this stuff serious and look forward to that opportunity to represent the city of La Mirada allstar team and yes there are some parents that do take it to serious..It still doesn't make sense why we can't wait until everything is complete...Thanks again..
Bob and Alejandro,
I can not believe that because of a tax identification were are thinking about the replacement of AYSO.
To make a program just like AYSO. If you think that 17 dollars and the cost of a Uniform will provide a uniform it simply cant be done. How about a goal breaking additional nets and all of the thing that make this region run.
The running of the Snack shack to pay for referee's come on. Why pay for what we are currently getting for free. Oh that wont increase cost for the children playing soccer. (Sarcasm)
Re ceritification of coaches for those who have been coaching for years at additional personal cost of time and money.
Recertification of Referee for those who have been refing for years at additional personal cost of time and money.
Re finger printing of volunters additional monies.
Why cant our city leaders with ayso have one of their employees or elected officials on the board of AYSO to ensure that it runs in the way it wants.
As a La Mirada resident I find it offensive that the city is not going to try everything in there power to try and keep an organization which is servicing 1100 children very well.
In your words Alejandro "you have never heard more positive comments about registration than this season."
We are changing for the better MURDERS AND FELONS OF ALL SORTS get probation. Because we dont have a 501 C3 we need to be drummed out of the city. Thereby costing the residents thousands of dollars and additional volunteer time to create a program just like AYSO.
There has to be a middle ground Alejandro.
Lots of great stuff. If you have read all my blogs you all would have read that the cost would remain about the same. It only cost about $17 to register the kids all the other money is spent on other stuff of which we wouldn’t be required to spend like $15,000 for the RC to go to the AGM. We could pay the ref if we wanted, some might think this would make a better ref program, not sure? As far as additional certification what is wrong with learning something new, all of us coaches would benefit from that, as would the kids. Has anyone other then me been involved with any other soccer program and had a bad experience, maybe, that the point. What ever program we have is as good as the people that run it, just with a new program we will be able to make our own rules and have open elections for all BOD members, I personal can’t see anything wrong with just that.
(Sarcasm) is ok
Alejandro,
I have always give credit to the volunteers who make this city great. Exspecially, you with your service to the athletic council.
I have a problem with putting more upon them to change their certifications.
I dont know why they wont do a 501c3.
But we could have a rule under the current organization that an RC could not be removed without approval from the Athletic Council.
You know that I have had as much problems with AYSO as anyone. However, I do not see the benefit in changing just for a tax ID number.
My children love soccer, because of the time I put into it. I do not want to be bogged down with additional administrative duties managing a 501 C3. Which take away from me coaching and administering this region.
We can make it work as long as past transgression from previos adminstrations do not cloud our decsion making process.
Bob, give me a break out for the cost of running the region, or where can I get one.
I do not want a program that will exclude children because we are increasing our costs.
Once again Alejandro I know AYSO has been a pain in the past let us look at this with an open mind. Because without the Athlectic Councils oversight many people would still be banned and I will always be grateful for oversight.
Bob your a pain but I love the fact that we are having this discussion primarily, beause you are willing to challenge conventional wisdom.
Thank you both,
Tim
P.S. I must fight for that, which makes the most financial sense and where the most children can play soccer.
Tim as far as the costs look at Reg. 22 financials they will be somewhat the same, less the AGM, cell phones, etc costs.
Why wouldn't you love to have a board where everyone can be voted in, including the budget, instead of the buddy system we have now. There may be some great minds out there that can make this a super great soccer city but will never get a chance to get involved because they aren't in the buddy system, and I don't mean me.
thx
Ponce
I had a few more questions that I hope you will be able to help me with.
I think that the AYSO headqtrs, is based out of Hawthorne, CA. so that is where all the regions report to..so how would having a tax ID based out of La MIrada make any difference on how the program is being run now???
Is there a benefit to the kids in having this in our city???
I would hope that Ayso and the city of La Mirada can come to some kind of agreement to keep a program that so many kids have been a part of for so many years...If the cities intention is to bring in another program that would benefit the kids then I'm sure the parents would welcome that but like I said why would we remove a program that has brought so many smiles to so many kids...Our city seems large enough to support both programs..
Thank you
Ponce,
I cannot tell you why AYSO does not do this for the city of La Mirada or any other city at that but like you said being that there would be no change in the service provided then why is it such a big issue with the city??? Why does the city insist on being different then everyone else???Can we not have a local goverened board without the tax ID#??
Sometimes I think there are to many politics involved and we tend to forget who the program is actually for, the kids...
Not sure how this tax ID stuff works but does every other sports program or business in the city have a La Mirada based ID#???Thanks again for your help
OK, everyone, I feel you were all being misdirected into thinking that there were a lot of problems with the local AYSO program, but there really isn't. And now the President of the AC says it's only one problem.
But to be honest the only problem is a city council that has been mislead by the members of the Athletic Council. Who were in-turn have been mislead and misinformed by a small group of gadflies and malecontents who were formally from the AYSO program. The AC members have been tricked into thinking that the La Mirada AYSO has so many problems in serving the citizens of our fair city. But really this program has very few real problems. And most of them are fixed quickly.
Yeah, there has been a few problems with how the last RC has handled volunteers who weren't percieved as going along with the program. But they have been corrected. But ALL programs have the same kind of problems in one form or another. And the Athletic Council members know that very well. As they in their turn have had similiar problems in their leagues.
I was, and still am, shocked that the fellow youth sports members of the Athletic Council would allow this type of thing to happen. Because they and their own leagues have been targets of gadfly and malcontents in the past. And they will be in the future.
In fact, now that they have openned this door it will encourage the above mentioned types to double and even triple their atacks because the AC and the City Council have shown that they will not support a program, even if it has served this city's children well for 35 years.
The Athletic Council president says is about a Tax ID #.
For 35 years the AYSO has served this city well without any problems with our TAX ID.
And for 35,000 cities in the USA the AYSO form has served well.
Now all of a sudden it's not!!
And the people who run the local AYSO are La Mirada residents. Do not be mistaken by misinformed others who have no REAL knowledge of how the iner-workings of this program runs. Local people decide how the money is spent. How the uniforms, equipment and the like
are handles. The only thing the National HQ does, besides support in training and soccer information, is review spending to insure that ALL expenses conform so that our tax-exempt status is safe. And the only reason, the next higher up authority stepped in was because of La Mirada Region 22 board members needed advise and instuction on how to install a new RC.
So let's say what is really happening in our fair city.
This city has some of the best soccer fields in all of the surrounding cities. And the wolves are just salivating.
They have misinformed and tricked the AC and CC into doing away with a fine Nationallly-Supported youth service organization.
Why? Because they want to run their own program their own way.
They have thier own agenda.
I have seen these types of program come and go in the surrounding communites. In fact La Mirada had a club style program called "La Mirada Pulse Soccer" about 8 years ago. It died. For several reasons, the main ones were high individual expense, lack of volunteer coaches,
lack of good returning leadership and the most important one was the lack of care and support for the recreational players.
Club programs like I a hearing about have rec teams as a after thought. Their main direction will be on the club level players, who, incidently, happen to be their own kids. And the recreational players will suffer.
The AYSO with its Rules and Regulations as well as its guidelines protect the rec player.
And always have.
I hate to see what will happen to those kids if the City Council members forces a great youth service program as the AYSO to leave.
Well, I know that Mr. John Schnieder, the present Regional Commissioner, who is, by the way one of the most Honorable Men I have ever met, reads these blogs.
So I will leave it up to him to answer that question.
And I do that because I know that what you want to know is just one of the many things Mr Schnieder is trying to get answered.
I am, by the way not on the Region Board, but have been involved with the AYSO program for 21 years. As well as most of the other local sport leagues.
So I do have some knowledge as to what I am talking about.
Gosh, I sure wish this were an election year. Then the city councilmembers would think differently, i am sure.
Ponce,
I hope I did not upset you by asking so many questions but you have not responded to me about the benefit of our city having its own tax ID#..other then a local governed board. Do we not have a board just like LMGSA or LMLL that still has to conform to what ASA or Little League adhere to???
I'm sure our RC is working on the tax ID# with the AYSO but why is it such an issue with the city???
Can you please tell me and everyone else what other cities are doing about this problem and how will this make the program better for the kids???
You seem hesitant to offer anything about it other than why will AYSO not change there stance on there ID#..
Being that you are not involved in this program at all and it will not effect your children I would hope that you are still giving it a fair chance to conform to whatever changes that the CC and AC have decided on..
This program has brought plenty of smiles to the kids of La Mirada for many years..Maybe its time that we think about the impact it might have on the kids and not worry about the political side...
Hey Steve, since I wasn’t here when all the “stuff” happened, you can’t be talking about me. As far as the
Pulse program leaving you are totally wrong they left because of other issues that have nothing to do with anything you said and I know this for a fact because the teams all came and played for me. The program that has been looked into doesn’t have any hidden agenda there are being looked at just in case Ayso National decides not to conform to the city’s rules.
No secrets if anybody has questions just ask them and I will try to answer them for you, please don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Steve I think that the current RC is doing the best he can, But let me ask you this, you left/was banned because you didn’t see eye to eye with the then RC. What if the next RC runs this region the just the same way, makes their own rules ban's people because they have a different idea/opinion. Wouldn’t you rather have a chance to redeem yourself, as it stands now there is no recourse because the RC has 100% percent control and doesn’t answer to anyone here in the city.
Hi Bob,
And your right, I was not singling out you. It has been a cumulation of people whispering into members of the AC that have brought this to a head. Or I really should say
yelling into their ears. As the squeakly wheel get the oil.
But I must say that I think it is best if we ALL stand together and tell the powers that be, that we want the AYSO. It is, after all is said an done, one of the best youth service organizations in the country.
But the simple fact of the is that ALL programs have problems.
And eventually the ship rights itself. This is a proven fact for all programs. Not just the AYSO.
And since you bring up banning.
Every program has that option.
Just most don't use it as much as the past 3 RCs.
This is a necessary tool in this day and age of protecting our youth.
And by the way, the AYSO does have and appeals procedure. But for me personally. I just say, "Hey, if you don't want me, no problemo. I am a National Level Referee, I can ref anywhere."
And to be honest, I know i can come back as RCs come and RCs go, but the AYSO will always be here.
(Or so i thought)
It's too bad that the people who are making or influencing the decision to remove the AYSO from La Mirada DO NOT want to take part in or have an open forum so that they can really hear what the silent majority really want in this city.
Mr. Ponce, who is president of the La Mirada Athletic Council has decided to remove himself from this discussion.
Too bad. Because of the position he holds and the fact that he is one of the main detractors against the La Mirada AYSO, (this became very evident after listening to his comments at the City Council meeting in August), he would have been in a great position to learn directly how this decision has adversely affected our city.
I agree 100% that this fourm is great and should be used by all without fear of reprisal. Everyone should get involved. I have stuck my neck out and am still being treated just as everyone else or so I think.
Wish it a had spell check though, having a blond ponytail. LOL
I think this is stuff is great and really do learn from it. I said something a little stupid to someone last Monday I hope they read this and accept my apology
Hey Bob, don't worry. Nobody is out to get you. ;)
In fact I have enjoyed listening to you. And to be honest all you have been trying to do is tell everyone to get thier heads out of the sand.
It is obvious that the city wants AYSO out of here. And you have just been TRYING to tell people that IF they want to have a say in the next soccer program that exists in this city they better start making arrangements to BE THAT PROGRAM.
I myself, think that the AYSO is the best program around. But I am a realist, and I have let it be known that I will, if asked, work and help with any La Mirada program that eventually exists in this city.
KOOL
Mr. Ponce, when and where are your LMAC meetings held? Also, why did you erase all your comments from before?
FYI
Just so that it is known, two other youth program are currently working on becoming 501-C-3 complaint. They have started the process of on complying to the faculty usage agreement.
Mr. Ponce, you said to me to read the last paragrah of you last posting and that would answer my question as to why OUR La Mirada Athletic Council President decided to erase all his previous comments. Well, I did, and no, it did not answer my question; all you said in that paragrah was that, and I quote "because of my public posiition, I would prefer not to respond to that type of dialogue". Mr. Ponce, I don't want to dwell on this but in life once we say something, it is said. If this was e-mail, you would not have been able to do that (erase your comments), if this was one on one (as you said you would much prefer), you would not have been able to do that either.
I believe a more ethical and professional approach would have been to write that last paragrah and do not answer to accusations from that point on without feeling the necessity to erase every single previous comment you made on this blog.
With all due respect, you did what you did and you had your reasons to do so but in my book (and I am sure many others), having our Athletic Council President take that approach speaks lots about his character.
Look, I am not trying to make this the topic and I don't even expect a response from you about the matter but I strongly believe in what I just said.
Changing the subject, TO WHAT REALLY MATTERS...I am a coach, referee, sponsor, parent of 3 children playing in AYSO La Mirada, and resident of this wonderful city, and I believe the City of La Mirada through your recommendation should give AYSO (La Mirada), a chance to redeem itself with this new leadership. There are many things that could be done to ensure that the city is informed of the decisions and direction AYSO La Mirada takes; but eliminating this wonderful program would probably be a big mistake. I hope and pray that the city would somehow review its requests and let AYSO proof itself a worthy program for La Mirada as it did for MOST of the 35 years it has been around.
God Bless.
Coach, I went to the LMAC last Tuesday night and they are making everyone who uses our great facilities have a 501-C-3. All the other groups have or are working on being compliant, AYSO national so far has decided not to be part of this. Rules are rules and we don't get to pick and choose which ones we get to use. We all hope that Ayso National changes it mind. There is no need to make things personal, this isn't because of any one person.
Bob,
I got my info from your Sept. 28th posting. Just because there is one bad person doesn't mean we should trash the whole program. I would love to see the new board have a chance to run the program successfully but I know the tax id number is the issue. Our city leaders can make a difference. They can amend the usage agreement at any time and still save our fields from out of city users. I still think that 35 years in a city could fall under a "grandfather" clause. For 35 years our city has allowed AYSO to use the tax payers athletic fields. Why do they have the right to not allow a group of La Mirada players (75%) to not use the athletic fields their parents pay for.
Boy, Mr Ponce sure hates it when you say anything that he doesn't like, agree with or question him on.
He has removed his posts AGAIN.
So much for open discussion.
And he is the one who the City Council members are listening to the most because of his position as President of the Athletic Council.
I don't think the AC was orginally intended to be the police arm of the city when it was orginally formed. But I guess it is now.
Jolene, why do all the other programs have to comply, my sister played Bobby sox and I believe that they were here before Ayso. No one said that we can't use the fields. This is not a city problem Ayso national can fix this any time so why don't they, that should be the question why won't they.
And who's to say that another "bad person" doesn't come in.
All,
From what Mr. Davis says, the city is making all groups who use city facilities comply with this 501-C-3 requirement. What makes AYSO Region 22 so special that they should be able to ignore this regulation? This idea that Region 22 is special and should not have to comply like other organizations, stinks of the same attitude that the last administration had where they thought they were better than everyone else and they could ban any parent and child from the program if they wanted to.
Has anyone even stopped to think that this 501-C-3 regulation might be there to protect the residents of La Mirada?
Can anyone tell me what type of legal entity Region 22 is? Region 22 is not a corporation. Region 22 is not a LLC. Region 22 is not even a 501-C-3 non-profit organization. Here is what Region 22 is, taken directly off of AYSO’s national website.
“Unlike other youth organizations, AYSO is a single corporation (one legal entity) and each region is a component of such corporation. Hence the assets of each region, as well as the liabilities, belong to the AYSO National organization.”
The city’s regulation would require Region 22 to be an entity of its own. All the money paid by La Mirada residents into this program would belong to the local program set up for the local La Mirada residents. Whether the local organization is AYSO, or CalSouth or Joe’s Soccer Club, there should be some protection in place that the program is guaranteed to be there for the local kids and can not be gutted by some national organization.
The way things are set up right now, if Region 22 goes under, does AYSO National even care? In January, will AYSO National come in and demand all monies in the Region accounts be turned over to them? Will we see trucks pull up to all the local fields and cart away all the new soccer goals and equipment? Refusing to comply with the city’s regulations may be a financial windfall for AYSO National.
I think that the city just wants to be sure that any local organization supported by the city is run by, and run for, the residents of the city. From what I see, this is not the case with AYSO. AYSO holds legal title to all the Region’s funds and equipment and if they feel like it, they can take it all away.
I would like to be proven wrong about the possibility of all the local assets being gutted out of the city and hopefully someone will take the initiative and proven me wrong. In fact you all should support and cheer anyone who takes the initiative and proves me wrong; not someone who just retaliates and says I am wrong. PROVE IT, because that will mean that all the time and effort that residents have put into a local soccer program will be protected for the local kids.
I think someone needs to bring this subject up now so everyone knows where the local soccer program stands. If no one can prove my dismal outlook wrong, maybe the local board needs to figure out how to protect its assets so at least some form of soccer program can continue in the city. Maybe the city needs to demand an immediate guarantee from AYSO that the time, efforts, and monies paid by local La Mirada residents into and for a local soccer program will survive for a future local soccer program; no matter what national name it is under.
TOOOOOOOOOOOOOO KOOL
IM,
Thank you for your comments. The only reason any of us should be involved is to continue to create a fantastic opportunity for our children to enjoy and grow with. That includes us big kids watching out for our children's best interest. Ayso has been a fantastic organization, mainly because of all of you great volunteers, for our kids. It truley still is. However, the city wants to make sure that everything that we the parents, and our kids work for stays here and is protected. Including the goals we've raised money to buy, the savings the organization has compiled for future projects and anything further that is earned here in La Mirada. Having the local controll with the local non-profit status ensures that. Having our national organization have the right to come take equipment that "is rightfully there's" just doesn't make sense. All of us contributed to the fundraising and should know without a shadow of a doubt that everything we have worked for belongs to the city and kids of La Mirada. It makes complete sense to have our own non-profit status and contract with AYSO to register our kids. If AYSO decides that can not be done, it's a business decission on there part, plain and simple. There will be a top notch soccer program in La Mirada come spring of 2008 and beyond with it's first priority beinig rec soccer for the majority of the kids. The only question is wheather the banner is AYSO or something else.
ps. Bob, where is spell check when you need it?
Hi all, I have heard about this "contacting" with Ayso but I believe that this can't be done.
There seems to be a lot of knowledgeable people on this blog and a lot of assumptions of what AYSO is and what it will do if they are thrown out of the City. Has anyone actually addressed these issues with AYSO?
Do we know if AYSO is working on the problem?
Yes the currnet RC and other are working hard to get this taken care of. But many believe that Ayso can't /won't change it's way just because they didn't back in aug when the deadline came. Rumor is that Ayso is going to do some legal thing what or when nobody knows.
So now everything is starting to be put on the table. GOOD!!!
For everyone's info, Region 22, La Mirada, is part of a National Non-Profit Organization, whose headquarters is in Torrance, CA.
The way it is structured is that each region, (city), runs their own programs based on National's charter, bylaws, rules, regulations and guidelines.
But, yes we are only one part of a national corporation. And as any corporation all properties are a part of THAT corporation.
None of this is secret, it is all in writing and available for anyone to see. Either on the web site, by request, in fact it is even taught at beginning training classes for all volunteers.
So IF the city kicks the AYSO out it (AYSO National) will assume control of ALL it's property.
To put it simply,(You don't want to play with us, we'll leave and take our ball with us).
And for anyone's info AYSO has taken legal action IN THE PAST, against cities or replacement clubs who tried to keep AYSO equipment. Or tried to say it was DONATED to them, or similiar such wording, by the exiting local AYSO board. PS, AYSO ALWAYS won in these cases.
That, in a nutshell, ladies and gentlemen is what gonna happen.
So I have to assume that our city council and athletic council were will aware of this BEFORE they started on this road.
I have to again assume that our city council is prepared to either, purchase
goals and other such necessary equipment at a cost of more than $50,000 to get this new league off the ground. Because the only other ways are to have CalSouth (alternate soccer program) pay for new goals, (This will never happen, that's not how they work),
or have the new league pay for them themselves. Can you imagine the fees and fund raisiers necessary.
This is assuming of course the city does NOT want to get into a legal battle with AYSO about property. This could cost our city hundreds of thousands of dollars.
So now what do we do?
Steve, great stuff we are looking into grant money to replace whatever we can. Also we can start by making goals simiular to what Whittier ayso has done. We also can make up goal that will work will for under $300. per set. I have done this before at WSC. Just need someone willing to donate some time to do the welding and people to set up and paint and assemble them.
Most likely my daughter will not make allstars so it looks like our AYSO season is coming to a close. Has anyone decided to step up and help bring in a new program? It would look like Bob couldn't do it alone, could you Bob :-)
Madsoccer,
There is a group of us working towards brining another soccer organization to La Mirada. And no, Bob did not have to do it alone. There are others willing to help. Would you like to help? If so, please drop me an email at
don@c21mbssador.com.
Thanks
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