NATIONAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Transcription

NATIONAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - NAGM 2015

American Youth Soccer Organization
NAGM Proxy & Voting Information
NATIONAL
ANNUAL
GENERAL
MEETING
2015 NAGM Protocols
Proposed Amendments Information
INCLUDED
Candidates for National
Board of Directors
Candidates for
National President
May 22-24, 2015 Phoenix, AZ
INFORMATION
BOOKLET
A M E R I C A N YO U T H
N AT I O N A L
S O C C E R
A N N UA L
O R G A N I Z AT I O N
G E N E R A L
M E E T I N G
DEAR EXECUTIVE MEMBERS,
The National Annual General Meeting (NAGM) serves as an
opportunity for our members to make important decisions on the
future direction of AYSO. To help you make informed decisions,
AYSO National President, Mark Stewart (Chair of the NAGM
pursuant to AYSO Bylaws), instructed the National Office to
compile this booklet, which contains one proposed change to
AYSO’s governing documents, the National Board of Director
and President candidates’ statements and biographies, and
voting and proxy information.
We trust you will find this booklet a helpful tool as you prepare
for the 2015 NAGM.
We look forward to seeing all of you in Phoenix!
IAN McMAHON
AYSO NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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2015 NAGM INFORMATION BOOKLET
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Proposed Amendments Information 4
6
2015 NAGM Protocols 9
Proposed Amendment to the National Bylaws 13
Bylaw # 1 – Adopt “Volunteer Driven” as the Seventh AYSO Philosophy
Questions for Candidates
16
Mark Stewart (National President)
18
Janet Braun (NBOD)
20
Bob Daniel (NBOD)
22
Dana Di Prima (NBOD)
24
Aaron Luce (NBOD)
26
FY 2015 Budget Information
27
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TO: All Executive Members
FROM: Ian McMahon, National Executive Director SUBJECT: Meeting and Voting Information and Proposed Amendment to AYSO’s National
Bylaws
Included on the following pages are the 2015 NAGM Protocols, the NAGM Proxy & Voting
Information Notice, information regarding the one proposed amendment to the AYSO National
Bylaws, information regarding the National President and National Board of Directors candidates,
and information concerning the FY 2015 Budget for your consideration prior to the 2015 NAGM.
There are no proposed amendments to the National Rules & Regulations.
A presentation of the proposed amendment and an opportunity for questions and discussion with
the proponents is scheduled for the Proposed Amendments Review on Friday, May 22, 2015 from
3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. (MST).
All executive members and other delegates are encouraged to review and consider the proposed
amendment, the 2015 NAGM Protocols and the Proxy & Voting Information Notice and
Instructions, which will allow for effective consideration of the proposed amendment and voting at
the 2015 NAGM in Phoenix, Arizona.
The National Board of Directors and National President elections, and voting on the proposed
amendment takes place during the 2015 NAGM at the annual business meeting of members (the
“Business Meeting”) on Sunday, May 24, 2015 beginning at 9:00 a.m. (MST). Proxy forms
have been mailed to all Executive Members. In case of a lost or misplaced proxy, the proxy
form is available for downloading at nagm2015.ayso.org, along with the “NAGM Proxy &
Voting Information” Notice section of this Booklet.
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NAGM 2015
Voter Registration Dates and Times
for All Executive Members and Proxy Holders
(Registration Required to Vote at Sunday Business Meeting)
Friday
May 22
12:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday
May 23
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
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IMPORTANT NOTICE
The American Youth Soccer Organization (“AYSO”) will hold its National Annual General Meeting this year from
May 22 to May 24, 2015 (the “NAGM”), with the annual business meeting session beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday,
May 24, 2015 (the “Business Meeting”). Each executive member (“EM”) of AYSO (i.e., each Regional Commissioner of
a chartered Region, Area Director, Section Director and member of the National Board of Directors) is entitled to
vote at the Business Meeting in person or by proxy. As explained in this notice, an EM may vote: (1) in person; (2)
by submitting a “pre-cast proxy/absentee ballot” in advance; or (3) by submitting a discretionary proxy authorizing
another person to vote for him/her.
A proxy form (the “Proxy Form”) is provided for EMs who cannot attend the NAGM but who would like to exercise
their voting rights at the NAGM by proxy. An EM may use the Proxy Form to either: (1) vote in advance by submitting a
proxy as explained in “Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot” sections in this notice (a “Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot”); or
(2) appoint another person as the EM’s designated proxy holder (“DPH”) to vote and act for him/her at the NAGM (a
“Discretionary Proxy”). The Proxy Form must be signed by the EM and submitted by one of the delivery methods
set forth below.
1.
An EM may send his or her completed Proxy Form in advance of the NAGM by mail, email or fax to the
addresses specified below, however, the Proxy Form must be received by 5 : 0 0 p . m . ( P D T ) Thursday, May
14, 2015 (if sent by mail) OR by 11:59 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, May 14, 2015 (if sent by email or fax). The
National Office will not be held responsible for lost, delayed or misdirected mail.
By Mail:
By Email:
By Fax:
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NAGM Proxy, American Youth Soccer Organization, 19750 South Vermont Avenue,
Suite 200, Torrance, CA 90502 (Due by 5:00 p.m. (PDT) Thursday, May 14, 2015)
Proxy@ayso.org (Due by 11:59 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, May 14, 2015)
(310) 525-1155 (Due by 11:59 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, May 14, 2015)
The National Office will make arrangements for an onsite computer kiosk station with printer so that an EM may
email a Proxy Form to his/her DPH, and to provide the DPH with the ability to log into a personal email account to
retrieve and print a Proxy Form. It is the responsibility of any EM submitting a Proxy Form after the deadlines listed
above to identify his/her DPH and to arrange for the Proxy Form to be registered at the NAGM by 3:00 p.m. (MST)
on Saturday May 23, 2015. The National Office will not accept any Proxy Forms by mail, email or fax after the May
14, 2015 deadline described above.
Mandatory Voter Registration at NAGM (for ALL Executive Members and Designated Proxy Holders)
•
Every EM and DPH who attends the NAGM must register at the “Voter & Proxy Registration Desk” (each
a “Registered Delegate”) at the NAGM by 3:00 p.m. ( M S T ) on Saturday, May 23, 2015, in order to be
admitted to the Business Meeting and be eligible to participate and vote. EMs and DPHs who do not register
by that time will not be admitted to the floor of the Business Meeting or be allowed to vote.
•
No EM, DPH or Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot may be registered after the deadline – Saturday, May 23,
2015 3 : 0 0 p .m . (MST) (National Bylaw 3.14)
Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot – There is no requirement to register your proxy at the NAGM if: (1) you submit a
Proxy Form to the National Office by the above deadline in which you choose the option to have your proxy be voted
“Only as Indicated” and you do not identify a DPH; and (2) you do not attend the NAGM; and (3) no one attends in
your place as a DPH. Your pre-cast proxy will be treated as an “absentee ballot.” The voted Proxy Form is also
referred to as a “Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot” and is described further in this notice. If you choose to vote your
proxy as “Only as Indicated” but you also designate an individual as your DPH, your proxy will be treated as a Precast Proxy/Absentee Ballot and your DPH will not be permitted to vote at the Business Meeting except for the limited
matters described in the “Instructions and Information” section on the following page.
Voter & Proxy Registration Desk at NAGM – Voter registration is required for all EMs and DPHs in order to be
able to participate and vote at the Business Meeting. Unless a Proxy Form was previously submitted to the National
Office as described above, the Proxy Form, including a Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot, must be registered at the
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NAGM in order to be valid for the NAGM and Business Meeting. The scheduled hours for voter and proxy registration
are listed below. (See the NAGM meeting agenda on site in Phoenix to confirm hours.)
Mandatory Voter & Proxy Registration Dates and Times
Friday
May 22, 2015
12:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (MST)
Saturday
May 23, 2015
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (MST)
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INSTRUCTIONS & INFORMATION
REGARDING COMPLETING THE PROXY
When completing the proxy, please check one of the two boxes in the voting instruction section (at the middle of the
page). As an Executive Member (“EM”) you may choose either: (1) to require that your votes are cast “Only as
Indicated” in the Proxy Form (a “Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot”); or (2) to authorize your designated proxy holder
(“DPH”) to follow any written or oral instructions you may give him/her and to use his/her discretion on additions
and/or changes submitted during the NAGM or the NAGM Business Meeting session on Sunday, May 24, 2015 (a
“Discretionary Proxy”). If you do not check one of the two boxes in the Proxy Form, votes will be cast under the
second option that gives your DPH discretion.
ONLY AS INDICATED (PRE-CAST PROXY/ABSENTEE BALLOT). If you indicate that your votes are to be
cast ONLY AS INDICATED, your proxy will be treated as a “Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot” for ALL items
covered in the proxy, even if you do not indicate a vote for one or more items on the Proxy Form, and the following
statements shall apply:
•
If a vote is not indicated for an item on the Proxy Form, such item will be treated as an abstention.
•
If a “friendly amendment” is offered from the floor of the Business Meeting and accepted by the author of
the initial proposed amendment, your vote will be counted as you indicated in your Proxy Form. As detailed
in the “2015 NAGM Protocols” included in the 2015 NAGM IFORMATION BOOKLET, a friendly amendment
may not materially alter the scope or impact of the amendment as initially proposed to the membership for
consideration.
•
You are not required to appoint a DPH. If you appoint a DPH, the voting portion of the Proxy Form will not
be given back to your DPH when he/she registers the proxy at the NAGM Voter & Proxy Registration Desk.
Therefore, since your Proxy Form will be treated as a Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot, your DPH will NOT
have any authority to vote or act in your place for any matters presented for action at the NAGM or Business
Meeting. Your DPH, however, will have authority to participate as a Registered Delegate on the floor of the
NAGM Business Meeting with respect to all matters other than voting or acting on items presented for action.
PROXY HOLDER DISCRETION (DISCRETIONARY PROXY). If you authorize your DPH to use discretion
regarding voting, then your DPH will have the right to vote on your behalf on any matter listed in the pre-printed
proxy and on any other business matter brought before the NAGM or Business Meeting for action, and the following
statements also shall apply. As previously noted, this is referred to as a “Discretionary Proxy.”
•
The voting portion of the Proxy Form (bottom half) will be given to your DPH when he/she registers at the
NAGM Voter & Proxy Registration Desk, so that your DPH will have any vote indications or instructions
that you may have noted on the Proxy Form.
•
For any matter that is listed in your Proxy Form for a vote, you may provide your DPH with any written or
oral instructions you wish your DPH to consider when voting on the matter during the NAGM Business
Meeting. Your DPH has authority to vote on friendly amendments.
•
As to any matter listed in the Proxy Form for which you have elected not to provide any instructions directly
to your DPH, you are authorizing your DPH to use his/her discretion to vote on your behalf as he/she believes
is appropriate; this authority includes voting not only for friendly amendments, but also for material
amendments that are treated as new proposed amendments.
•
For any voting item that is not listed in your Proxy Form (including any business matter brought before the
NAGM Business Meeting that is not identified in the pre-printed Proxy Form), you are authorizing your DPH
to use his/her discretion to vote on your behalf as he/she believes is appropriate.
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2015 NAGM PROTOCOLS
These Protocols govern the conduct of the proceedings related to the 2015 National Annual General Meeting
(“NAGM”) of the American Youth Soccer Organization (“AYSO” or the “Organization”), including the annual
business meeting session scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. (MST) on Sunday, May 24, 2015 (the “Business
Meeting”). They are prepared to make certain that the Business Meeting and all other sessions of the NAGM are
conducted in a professional manner that enables the Executive Members and other registered delegates to accurately,
efficiently and effectively perform the important business that the Organization must conduct during its annual
business meeting.
In accordance with National Bylaw 3.17, the NAGM, including the Business Meeting, will be chaired by the National
President, Mark Stewart, or by any person who the National President designates as the meeting chair for all or any
part of the meeting. The person acting as the chair of the meeting is referred to in these Protocols as the “Meeting
Chair.”
1.
Access to the Business Meeting Floor. The following individuals will be permitted on the floor of
the Business Meeting: Executive Members (i.e., Regional Commissioners of chartered Regions, Area
Directors, Section Directors, and members of the National Board of Directors) and designated proxy
holders of Executive Members who have timely registered at the NAGM Voter & Proxy Registration
Desk (“Registered Delegates”); National Office Staff; and any other individuals as the President may
authorize (“Authorized Individuals”). Individuals who are not Registered Delegates, National Office
staff or Authorized Individuals, shall not be admitted to participate in the Business Meeting except as
provided below.
(a)
If none of the submitters of a proposed amendment to the Bylaws* that was submitted at least
75 days in prior to the Business Meeting is a Registered Delegate, member of the National Office
staff or Authorized Individual in attendance and available to speak in favor of the proposed
amendment at the Business Meeting, the Meeting Chair shall grant at least one of the
submitters or an individual representing a submitter (each a “Designated Submitter”) a
temporary right to participate on the floor of the Business Meeting to propose the amendment
and participate in related discussions.
* Note that there was no initially proposed amendment related to the Rules & Regulations
(R&Rs) provided to the membership for consideration in advance of the 2015 Business
Meeting.
2.
Decorum. Each Registered Delegate shall respect the other Registered Delegates and exhibit behavior
that is appropriate for a business meeting. Pursuant to National Policy Statement 2.12, derogatory
comments (written or verbal) directed at another person are prohibited. Please no booing or cheering
while speakers are addressing the Business Meeting. Violations of this policy will be strictly enforced.
3.
Scope of Friendly Amendments and Treatment of Material Amendments. A “Friendly
Amendment” is a suggested change to a proposed amendment to the Bylaws provided that such
suggested change: (a) is accepted by the submitter(s) of the proposed Bylaw; and (b) does not
materially alter the scope or impact of the amendment as initially proposed to the membership for
consideration (“initially proposed amendment”), as determined by the Meeting Chair.
(a)
For voting purposes, an initially proposed amendment may be modified by a Friendly Amendment and
considered for approval at the Business Meeting as so modified. If an initially proposed amendment
is modified by a Friendly Amendment at the Business Meeting, votes for or against the initially
proposed amendment in Pre-cast Proxy/Absentee Ballots shall be counted and treated as votes for
or against the initially proposed amendment, as modified by the Friendly Amendment.
(b)
A suggested change to an initially proposed amendment that materially alters the scope or impact of
the initially proposed amendment (a “Material Amendment”) will not be considered a Friendly
Amendment because it effectively becomes a new proposed amendment at the Business Meeting
and: (1) its introduction contravenes National Bylaw Sections 10.01(a) and 8.02(a), which require
that an amendment be submitted to the National Office at least 75 days in advance of the Business
Meeting; and (2) votes cast for or against the initially proposed amendment in a Pre-cast
Proxy/Absentee Ballot cannot be considered votes for or against the initially proposed amendment if
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2015 NAGM PROTOCOLS
its scope has been materially altered. Therefore, any Material Amendment may only be considered as
a separate new proposed amendment at the Business Meeting, which will be handled in accordance
with the Bylaws as described in paragraph 4 below.
4.
New Proposed Amendment to Bylaws or R&Rs Made at the Business Meeting. The requirement that a
new proposed amendment to the Bylaws be submitted at least 75 days prior to the Business Meeting may be
waived by a vote of three-fourths of the Registered Delegates (not including abstentions). The requirement
that a new proposed amendment to the R&Rs be submitted at least 75 days prior to the Business Meeting
may be waived by a vote of two-thirds of the Registered Delegates (not including abstentions). Any Registered
Delegate who was appointed by an Executive Member that submitted a Pre- cast Proxy/Absentee Ballot is
not authorized to vote on any such waiver or on any new proposed amendment.
5.
Limited Voice Vote: Favor Written Ballots. No voice vote concerning any proposed amendment to the
Bylaws or R&Rs shall be determinative unless it is unanimous or unquestionably overwhelming, as
determined by the Meeting Chair. A voice vote that is not unanimous or unquestionably overwhelming may
not accurately reflect the actual votes, which include Discretionary Proxies from persons not physically present
at the Business Meeting (in effect, silent votes). For example, three Registered Delegates who hold no
Discretionary Proxies and have a collective total of three votes easily could “out shout” a Registered Delegate
who holds 15 Discretionary Proxies. Accordingly, a written ballot shall be used in all cases in which the
voice vote does not meet the criteria stated above. When considering if a voice vote is unquestionably
overwhelming, the Meeting Chair shall consider that an amendment of the Bylaws requires a “supermajority”
vote of two-thirds of the votes of the Registered Delegates and pre-cast proxies/absentee ballots (not
including abstentions) and that an amendment of the R&Rs requires a “simple majority” vote of more than
50% of the votes of the Registered Delegates and Pre-cast Proxies/Absentee Ballots (not including abstentions).
6.
Nominations During the NAGM. The Meeting Chair will make certain that Registered Delegates are
provided the opportunity to nominate one or more additional candidates for one of the open Director positions
on the National Board of Directors (also referred to herein as the “NBOD”), and for the National President, as
provided for in National Bylaw Section 4.04(c). The opportunity to nominate additional candidates for open
Director positions on the NBOD shall be given at the b e g i n n i n g o f t h e Candidate Speeches
Session at the NAGM on Friday, May 22, 2015. The opportunity to nominate additional candidates for the
National President shall be given at the Business Meeting after the results of the election of Directors to the
NBOD are known in order to determine who is eligible for nomination since only members of the NBOD
are eligible for election as the National President.
7.
Vote for NBOD Candidates Will Precede the Vote for National President. As mandated by National Bylaw
Section 4.05(b), the election of Directors for the National Board of Directors shall precede the election of the
National President at the Business Meeting.
8.
Possible Voice Vote for Directors. In the event that the number of candidates nominated as Directors to the
NBOD following closure of nominations during the NAGM is equal to the number of open NBOD positions,
the Meeting Chair may choose, but is not required, to conduct a voice vote among the Registered Delegates
at the Business Meeting for an election by acclamation.
9.
Possible Voice Vote for National President. In the event that there is only one candidate who has been
nominated for National President following closure of the nominating process for National President, the
Meeting Chair may choose, but is not required, to conduct a voice vote among the Registered Delegates for an
election by acclamation.
10.
Opportunity to Be Heard. At the Business Meeting, Registered Delegates shall be provided a reasonable
opportunity to speak to each of the amendments as they are presented for consideration at the Business Meeting.
A reasonable opportunity with respect to a proposed amendment includes allowing Registered Delegates to
present new ideas, new thoughts, or new concerns regarding the proposed amendment, either in favor or in
opposition. The Meeting Chair is responsible, however, for curtailing repetition of ideas or discussion not
related to the amendment being considered. Curtailment by the Meeting Chair is not intended to preclude
meaningful discussion, but rather to further the following objectives:
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2015 NAGM PROTOCOLS
11.
facilitate an efficient and effective administration of the business of the
Organization;
(b)
avoid repetition of information that might distract the Registered Delegates from considering the
initially proposed amendment that was timely submitted for consideration by the membership in
advance of the Business Meeting;
(c)
avoid the introduction of information that is not relevant to the initially proposed amendment;
(d)
avoid the inadvertent introduction of a new proposed amendment that was not timely submitted
for consideration in advance of the Business Meeting; and
(e)
permit submitters to withdraw their proposed amendments to the Bylaws or the
R&Rs.
Opportunity to Question Candidates. Delegates shall be provided a reasonable opportunity to ask questions of
the candidates for the National Board of Directors and for the office of National President. The Meeting Chair
is responsible, however, for curtailing repetition of questions and “speeches” in lieu of questions. Curtailment
by the Meeting Chair is not intended to preclude or prevent questioning of the candidates, but rather to
avoid repeating questions that have been asked and answered by the candidates thereby allowing the
opportunity for new questions to be asked to assist Registered Delegates in their evaluation of the candidates.
(a)
(a)
Executive Members who are unable to attend the NAGM and who have questions or would like
further clarification from any of the NBOD or President candidates may submit written questions to
the National Office in advance of the NAGM (“Written Questions”). The Written Questions will be
reviewed for appropriateness consistent with the governing protocols. During the Q&A period held
at the Candidates Forum for candidates for the NBOD held on Saturday at the NAGM, and during
the Q&A period at the Business Meeting on Sunday for candidates for National President, up to
one-third of each of the Q&A periods will be devoted to Written Questions. The Written Questions
WILL NOT be revealed to the candidates prior to the Q&A periods. The balance of the Q&A time
will be available to the individuals present to ask questions.
Written Questions must be submitted by email to frankieshabsin@ayso.org or by mail to the
attention of Frankie Shabsin at the AYSO National Office for receipt by Monday, May 11, 2015.
When submitting Written Questions, please provide your name, AYSO position and Region or
Area, which will be provided during the Q&A period when the question is asked. In addition,
please indicate whether your question is directed to candidate(s) for the NBOD or National
President and specify to which candidate(s) you are directing your question (e.g., all NBOD
candidates, two or three particular NBOD candidates, all National President candidates, etc.).
12.
Ending Discussion: “Call the Question.” In accordance with these 2015 NAGM Protocols, the Meeting Chair
shall not allow, and will not recognize, a request to “call the question” and end discussion with respect to any
proposed amendment, or to end the questioning of the candidates if, in the opinion of the Meeting Chair, it
would preclude meaningful discussion or questions.
13.
Meeting Chair and Parliamentarian. The Meeting Chair shall be responsible for conducting the Business
Meeting and other sessions at the NAGM and determining the proper application of these procedural rules.
When conducting the meeting, the Meeting Chair, in his or her sole discretion, may consult with a
Parliamentarian (if one has been appointed) or any other person(s) with respect to the application of these
procedural rules, the Bylaws and the R&Rs and such other matters as the Meeting Chair deems advisable.
14.
Collection and Counting of Ballots. When there is a vote by written ballot, the ballots shall be collected in
a manner designed to safeguard the privacy of each Registered Delegate’s vote. All written ballots shall be
counted by impartial persons whose identity is not published in order to protect the integrity of the count. An
individual appointed by the NBOD will serve as the inspector of election and will supervise the ballot counting
process. Ballots shall be counted in a room separate from the room in which the Business Meeting is held in a
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2015 NAGM PROTOCOLS
manner designed to avoid interruption or disruption of the count. The inspector of election shall provide the
Meeting Chair or his/her designee with the final tabulation of votes, including votes by Pre-cast
Proxies/Absentee Ballots, with respect to each matter submitted to a written ballot vote to enable the Meeting
Chair or such designee to announce the results.
15.
Friday Review and Q&A Relating to Proposed Amendments. A review and question and answer session
will be held at the NAGM on Friday, May 22, 2015 starting at 3:00 p.m. (MST). Similar to last year, the
scope of the review session will be slightly expanded to permit brief comments about any proposed
amendment to be directed to the submitter. The purpose of the review and Q&A session on Friday is to
provide both the submitter and others attending the review session with an opportunity to ask questions
and make comments that seek clarification and/or a better understanding of the proposed amendments. The
purpose of the Friday session is not to debate the merits of any particular amendment or to formally entertain
and adopt Friendly Amendments. Debate shall be conducted during the Business Meeting on Sunday, May 24,
2015. At the Friday session, a potential Friendly Amendment may be identified to the submitter of a proposed
amendment, provided it is consistent with paragraph 3 above. Detailed discussions, if any, relating to requests
for Friendly Amendments are expected to occur with the submitter of a proposed amendment after the Friday
session. As noted in paragraph 16 below, to the extent possible, proposed Friendly Amendments should be
submitted on Friday, May 22, 2015 or Saturday, May 23, 2015 in order to allow time to review the Friendly
Amendment and prepare any needed information for use during the Business Meeting. Any Friendly
Amendment agreed to by the submitter of a proposed amendment prior to the Business Meeting must be
presented at the Business Meeting when the proposed amendment is presented for consideration. Moderators
for the Friday question and answer session shall ensure adherence to this paragraph.
15.
Assisting with Friendly Amendments. The Parliamentarian, Darryl Ross, was requested by the AYSO
National President to update the protocols for the NAGM and Business Meeting, and assist in preparing
comprehensive documentation by which the proposed amendments, supplemented by information concerning
the economic, practical and legal “impacts” of each proposed amendment, have been presented to the
Executive Members for their consideration during the Business Meeting. During the NAGM, the
Parliamentarian will assist submitters of proposed amendments, Registered Delegates and others, in
preparing proposed Friendly Amendments to the proposed amendments. Submitters of proposed amendments
and others should provide Darryl R o s s with proposed Friendly Amendments as soon as possible so that all
matters can be reviewed and materials can be prepared prior to the Sunday Business Meeting at which Friendly
Amendments must be presented and proposed. To the extent possible, proposed Friendly Amendments,
together with contact information for the submitter(s) of the proposed amendments and individuals
proposing the Friendly Amendments, should be provided before 1:00 p.m. (MST) on Saturday, May 23, 2015.
Please notify Darryl Ross at 949-533-3800 and/or by email: darrylross@ayso.org if you are interested in
submitting a Friendly Amendment or have any questions relating to the amendment process.
17.
Meeting with Submitters. In an effort to facilitate the process involving proposed amendments and Friendly
Amendments, individuals as requested by the National President, will review the processes and procedures
relating to proposed amendments and Friendly Amendments with the submitters of the proposed amendments
to the Bylaws.
18.
Quorum and Vote Approval Requirements. At the beginning of the Business Meeting, the Meeting Chair
or his/her designee will present the number of Registered Delegates and the various vote approval
thresholds required pursuant to the Bylaws in connection with the business being conducted during the
Business Meeting.
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American Youth Soccer r a za
Proposed Bylaw Amendment #1
SHORT DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT:
Philosophy.
Adopt “Volunteer Driven” as the seventh AYSO
SUBMITTED BY EXECUTIVE MEMBERS (listed alphabetically):
John Hadidian (Regional
Commissioner, 10/W/683), Charles Johnson (Area 10/D Director), Marc Smith (Regional Commissioner,
8/G/814), Dianne Stratton (Area 5/B Director)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________ PROPOSED AMENDMENT (bold underlining for additions and strikeout for deletions):
SECTION 1.01 PHILOSOPHY
The Philosophy of the Organization is to educate and develop young people by encouraging their interests and
participation in soccer through its “Everyone Plays,” “Open Registration,” “Balanced Teams”, ”Positive
Coaching”, “Good Sportsmanship”, and “Player Development” and “Volunteer Driven” concepts.
EFFECTIVE DATE OF AMENDMENT: July 1, 2015
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REASON FOR AMENDMENT: [The views in this section represent those of the amendment proponent(s).]
AYSO's Mission is to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs which promote a fun, family environment based on
AYSO's Six Philosophies. Our Six Philosophies address the goal of quality delivery in our youth soccer programs, but are
silent about our foundational belief and shared value in meeting that goal of quality delivery.
Each of our current Six Philosophies were adopted after a clear demonstration that they were strongly held beliefs that were
widely practiced within the organization. These beliefs are essential to understanding the nature, value, and basis of our
organization.
Understanding and communicating the fundamental role of the volunteer - whether it be the volunteer serving as Regional
Concession Stand Coordinator or the volunteer serving as National President - is essential to understanding the nature, value
and basis of our organization.
Almost every decision to register a child in our player programs requires a consideration by that child’s parent or guardian to
volunteer in order to enable the delivery of the program in a Region. That decision cascades to eventually determine the
availability and quality of coaches, referees, administrators, volunteer staff, and Area, Section and National Board Directors.
We do not currently speak to that consideration and decision of the parent to start, or even continue, to volunteer at the
forefront and at a core value level: through our Philosophies. Our website, newsletters and printed material capture the flavor,
practicalities and even the warmth of the initial and ongoing consideration to volunteer. We do the important job of
communicating what we do as a volunteer organization and how we do it.
Our AYSO Philosophies communicate what we believe about ourselves and why we choose to act. Our Philosophies are not
a capstone of achievement. They are the recognition of the foundation for achievement. What we chose to do and how we
chose to act are enabled, informed, and directed by what we believe and why we believe it.
AYSO is Volunteer Driven confirms and communicates the fundamental and critical role of the volunteer to develop and
deliver quality youth soccer programs. Our world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives also enrich the lives
of AYSO volunteers that deliver our programs, enrich our organization – and enrich the communities in which we live.
Adopting Volunteer Driven as our Seventh Philosophy will clarify and prioritize the nature, value and basis of our
organization. Those that would join us need to hear that. We need to know and say that.
14
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POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF AMENDMENT: OPERATIONAL, FINANCIAL, eAYSO, ETC. (e.g., documents
requiring revision, training materials requiring revision, changes required to eAYSO, potential costs): [The “impact
statements” below were prepared to provide information to the membership to be able to better understand the
potential impacts of the proposed amendment.] The proposed amendment to the National Bylaws, if enacted, would
have the following impacts:
1.
Expand the current six AYSO philosophies to include “Volunteer Driven” without eliminating or changing any
current philosophy, which would result in there being seven AYSO philosophies going forward. The “Volunteer
Driven" description provided above would also be added to the AYSO Mission Statement.
2.
Costs associated with adding AYSO's 6th Philosophy (Player Development) were reviewed to provide the
membership with the estimated financial impact of adding a 7th philosophy. Based on that review, the National
Office provides the following estimated costs if a 7th philosophy is adopted:
a. Contract labor costs of $10,000.00 or more to revise existing printed and digital materials. Examples of
printed and digital materials that require revision include training manuals, websites, business cards,
display items and electronic presentations.
b.
Replacement costs of $14,000.00 or more to purchase new display units and signage used by the Events
and Marketing departments at AYSO events. The estimated amount is in addition to the labor costs
identified in 2(a) above.
c.
Existing Supply Center inventory does not contain the proposed 7th Philosophy. There is no financial
impact if the current inventory is used until exhausted. Taking the materials out of commission and
replacing them with updated materials containing a 7th philosophy will result in an estimated write-off of
$10,000.00 or more. The National Office will require direction on what to do with existing Supply Center
inventory.
3.
Sections, Areas and Regions will be impacted to the extent that existing printed and digital materials have to be
updated. Items that may have to be updated or replaced include banners, wind flags, pop up tents, signage, business
cards, websites, and other display items. The National Office cannot the estimate the financial impact to the
Sections, Areas and Regions.
4.
Except as noted above, no other financial, operational, or other impacts have been identified.
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15
2015 QUESTIONS FOR NBOD
& PRESIDENT CANDIDATES
The National Board of Directors candidates were asked to respond to a set of four questions. The National President
candidate was asked to respond to a set of six questions. They were notified that their responses would be distributed to all
Executive Members who are eligible to vote at the 2015 AYSO National Annual General Meeting (NAGM). The candidates’
biographies, statements and responses to these questions are listed on the following pages. Please review them carefully
in preparation for your vote in the upcoming election at the 2015 AYSO NAGM in Phoenix, AZ.
The questions posed to National Board of Directors candidates for the candidate statement were as follows:
1. Why do you want to be on the AYSO National Board of Directors?
2. What is motivating you to run for the Board?
The questions posed to National Board of Directors candidates were as follows:
1. Recognizing that consistency and quality are key components of AYSO’s national brand, what are the five
most important things that a Region must do to maintain a successful AYSO program?
2. Focusing on both growth and retention, what would you recommend as a Board Member to assist the Areas
and Regions to stem attrition, capitalize on growth opportunities, attract new players and volunteers and
rekindle the AYSO spirit in Regions facing these challenges?
3. Identify three challenges that AYSO faces today that did not exist in the past. What specific skills or expertise
do you possess to address those challenges?
4. What do you see as the responsibilities of a National Board of Director to the volunteer Executive Members
that elected that Director?
The questions posed to National President candidates for the candidate statement were as follows:
1. Why do you want to be the National President of AYSO?
2. What motivated you to run for this position?
The questions posed to National President candidates were as follows:
1. What are your three most important goals to accomplish as National President?
2. Please describe what you would like to accomplish and how in your first 90 days as President.
3. How will the goals you would like to achieve as National President impact Region and Area programs and
the roles of AYSO volunteers?
16
4. If elected, describe how AYSO will have changed by the end of your first term and why you are the person
to make this happen.
5. What qualities do you believe you possess that make you the best choice to lead the organization as we
continue to deal with a changing business environment due to decreased player and volunteer numbers
and resulting diminishing revenue streams, as well as increased legal and compliance issues facing all
youth sports (e.g. concussion laws, background check requirements, electronic/social media)?
6. Outside of long term sustainable growth, what are your thoughts on how AYSO can generate additional
financial resources to balance the budget each fiscal year, and how do you propose to build the reserves
set forth in the board’s stated budget goals each year?
NOTE
All candidate statements appear exactly
as submitted and have not been edited in
any way.
NAGM 2015
Voter Registration Dates and Times
for All Executive Members and Proxy Holders
(Registration Required to Vote at Sunday Business Meeting)
Friday
May 22
12:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday
May 23
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
17
MARK STEWART
CANDIDATE FOR NATIONAL PRESIDENT
ABOUT MARK
Personal Information:
• Married to Cristi Stewart
• Two sons: Cory and Kyle, three grandchildren
AYSO Experience:
• Regional Safety Director: Region 100 Kailua, HI 1982-1983
• Asst. Regional Referee Administrator: Region 100
Kailua, HI - 1983
• Asst RC: Region 100 Kailua, HI - 1984-1985
• Regional Commissioner: Region 100 Kailua, HI 1986-1990
CONTACT
(808) 223-9412
MarkStewart@ayso.org
• Co-founder and Tournament Director Windward
Classic Tournament - 1990
• Kirk Banks Tournament Director - 1991
• Area Director: Area 7/O - Honolulu Metro, East
Oahu, Windward Oahu - 1995-2000
• Management Task Force: 1998
CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT
I am again offering my candidacy for your National
President because I believe I have the leadership
skills paired with a lifetime of experience that counts.
Experience I will put to work for you.
Having run my own business for over 25 years I bring
to the table a strong background in fiscal accountability.
I will continue to bring to AYSO my management
knowledge and experience to help facilitate responsible
business practices.
In addition to having a strong business background,
I am a professionally trained mediator. The mediation
skills I have developed assist me in providing the
membership solid people skills, open communication,
common sense, and strong ethics. This skill set is
unique and is matched with my business background.
Together they are a strong combination that can facilitate
leading the NBOD
Having had experience at all levels of executive
membership I also have a deep understanding of the
challenges AYSO faces every day. I am always open
to input, new ideas and feedback. I know I can be an
effective leader of your team.
• Section Director: Section 7 Hawaiian Islands 2001-2005
QUESTION 1 - What are your three most important
goals to accomplish as National President?
• Section 7 Developer: 2001-2005
process of establishing and working toward goals can
• National Games Staff: 2002
• National Vice-President: 2006-present
• National President 2014 -2015
Honors, Accomplishments and Certifications:
• Advanced AYSO Coach
• B” coach certified
• N2 Referee
In order for AYSO to achieve continued success the
increase our capacity to better serve more members
-- and ultimately, help move us toward long-term growth
and sustainability. Goals are the guiding lights that get
us to where we want to be.
The top three goals:
1. Continued focus on customer support and services
• Grade 2 Coach Instructor
to the Regions that directly serve the families and children
• Advanced Mgmt Instructor
to provide programming that allows everyone to play.
• Grade 5 Regional Teacher
• National Section of the Year 2003 & 2005
Commissions and/or Task Forces:
• Endowment Fund Commission: 2001-2014
• Management Commission Liaison: 2005-2009
• Coaching Commission Liaison: 2010
• Management Task Force: 1998
Professional Experience:
in AYSO. To be successful it is critical that we continue
We must constantly be researching the varied needs
of the current marketplaces across the country and
be willing and empowered to change the way we do
business to meet those needs
2. Balance the investment of time and money with
effective training opportunities for all volunteers. We
will continue to explore all types of training venues
• President, Principal Broker :Stewart & Assoc., Inc. Real
and forums, including but not limited to more long
• Past Chair: Honolulu Board of Realtors Central Region
training opportunities
• Chair: Honolulu Board of Realtors Mediation Council
planning, leadership, oversight and governance role and
Estate Sales & Property Management
(Metro Honolulu and Waikiki)
• Board Member: Honolulu Board of Realtors
distant learning and cost effective face to face
3. Continue to move the NBOD to a strategic and fiscal
away from an operational mode. The NBOD has made
great strides this year in focusing on this shift in leadership
management, we will continue to be less operational and
more visionary and future focused.
The board of directors, staff, and membership’s
input and advice in the goal-setting process is a must
for cooperation, collaboration and implementation.
Development of a comprehensive operational plan is
mandatory to move forward successfully.
18
QUESTION 2 - Pease describe what you would like to accomplish and
how in your first 90 days as President.
The first 90 days will be a continued examination of the needs of the
current marketplace researching options and make implementing changes
in the way we do business.
The NBOD along with volunteer input and the National office staff will
continue to develop a structure and business plan to move AYSO forward to
better support the Regions we serve. There will be a continuing effort at every
level to place our emphasis and focus on customer service and support.
We will also continue to respond to the demands for flexible programs,
professional support at the Region level and other ideas that provide unique
experiences based on the needs of your individual markets. As President
I have been able to take a leadership role with your Board in responding to
those requests by actively examining all of the different programs that are
being offered by Regions across the country. To that end at every EXPO
this past year we have met with the Section and Area Directors to discuss
their needs, challenges and successes in their varied markets. The market
has changed dramatically over the years, and AYSO needs to explore all
opportunities to remain relevant and competitive for today’s environment.
QUESTION 3 – How will the goals you would like to achieve as National
President Impact Region and Area programs and the roles of AYSO
volunteers?
Yogi Berra once said, “If you don’t know where you are going you might
end up somewhere else.”
Each and every goal that a president may have should always be consistent
with the organizational values and driven by improving the experience of
the players, parents and volunteers. The accomplishment of these goals
must always impact the regions effectiveness on running a quality program.
Goals include improving the regions and areas offering of quality training
to the volunteers so that they can perform at their best. When the volunteers
are prepared and trained for their role in our programs they will excel. When
the programs excel, players and parents will be satisfied and stay engaged
and continue to join each season.
The true power of goal setting lies in their ability to motivate us. Our
motivation should always be about the end game, true soccer enjoyment
for our members.
QUESTION 4 – If elected, describe how AYSO will have changed by the
end of your first term and why you are the person to make this happen.
Change is hard it really is. We often see change as something undesirable.
Change means that we are getting out of our comfort zone. However change
is powerful. Changing means discovering something new, moving forward
and growing.
The changes we hope to accomplish would all be based on the continuing
efforts to better serve our customer base. While it is always difficult to
accurately predict where you will be a year from now I would hope that by
continued effort we can achieve the following changes:
A. Expanding the growth in player numbers and program opportunities
in every region by expanding the menu of services we can provide while
always noting that it is imperative that we always preserve the key core
values that make us unique and have guided us for the last 50 plus years.
B. Moved forward on improvements and enhancements of our IT systems,
including a mobile app for player and volunteer applications.
C. Recognition that there will be an ongoing effort at every level to
emphasis our focus on customer service and support directly to the Section,
Area and Regions.
QUESTION 5 – What qualities do you believe you possess that make you
the best choice to lead the organization as we continue to deal with a
changing business environment due to decreased player and volunteer
numbers and resulting diminishing revenue streams, as well as increased
legal and compliance issues facing all youth sports (e.g. concussion laws,
background check requirements, electronic/social media)?
Leaders in any field or organization possess certain common skills and
qualities to effectively lead rather than simply manage.
1. I have a proven track record both professionally and within AYSO of
being an effective leader.
2. As a business owner I bring a strong understanding of the business
side of AYSO. I understand the challenges of the “business” of AYSO.
3. As a 30 +year volunteer I bring an extensive background of knowledge
and experience. I have held a wide variety of positions at the Region/Area
/Section and National level.
4. I know how to work collaboratively and cooperatively with a team. As
a professionally trained mediator I know how to bring a divergent group of
talented volunteers and paid staff together to work effectively on any project.
5. I also understand that a shared vision and clear understanding of our
goals and objectives is essential. Key to accomplishing goals is the integrity
of the leader. The core of integrity is truthfulness. I have always prided myself
with being truthful in all my dealings, and will continue to do so.
6. Finally I am persistent. I am here for the long haul. We will not always
succeed in where we want to go or what we want to accomplish, however
I have always believed failure is not a mistake. The real mistake is to
stop trying.
QUESTION 6 – Outside of long term sustainable growth, what are your
thoughts on how AYSO can generate additional financial resources to
balance the Budget each Fiscal Year, and how do you propose to build
the Reserves set forth in the Board’s stated Budget Goals each year?
Financial leadership is one of the most important focuses for a National
President, guiding an organization to sustainability.
Income diversification is often touted as a tenet of sustainability—the idea
being that having all of your eggs in one basket is by definition riskier than
having them in multiple baskets—or in this case, multiple revenue streams.
There are a number of opportunities outside of the income generated
by player fees to help diversify our income stream:
1. Sponsorships
2. Planned Giving Initiatives
3. Corporate level donors
4. Alumni Donor Initiatives
These options are and should be continued. However historically their
successes have been inconsistent, proving to be a very limited revenue source.
As the President and financial leader diversification will continue to be
a focus even with the real risks that come with this focus. More revenue
streams don’t necessarily mean greater overall income because maintaining
these revenue streams can be problematic. Each one calls for specific skills,
marketing strategies, capital investment, and management capacity. Those
costs have to be balanced with insuring return on our investment.
Reducing the tide of player loss still remains the critical need for long
term health of the organization. In order to balance our budget we have
been forced to make serious cuts which decrease the agility and flexibility
of the organization to invest in growth. We can’t continue to cut costs and
survive long term. In any business you can’t cut your way to profits, we have
to grow to increase revenue.
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JANET BRAUN
CANDIDATE FOR NBOD
CONTACT
(626) 808-5473 (cell)
(626) 799-0707 (home)
janetbraun2@gmail.com
braunjanetL@aol.com
AYSO is the best youth sports organization in
the country. AYSO’s reliance on its six underlying
ABOUT JANET
philosophies and volunteer efforts creates positive and
AYSO Experience:
• Regional Commissioner (214), South Pasadena, CA
(2,100 players) 2003-05
• Regional Board Member (214) 2000-08, positions
included Assistant RC, VIP Director, Tournament
Director and Secretary
• Area Director (1C), West San Gabriel Valley
(14,000 players) 2006-08
• National Legal Commission 2008-14
• Coach 1995-2013
• Regional Referee
• VIP Coach 2002-07
• 20-year AYSO Volunteer 1995-present
• Recipient, R214 Regional Commissioner’s Award 2006
sets it apart from many other youth sports leagues. We
Nonprofit Board /Leadership Experience:
• Chair, South Pasadena Public Safety Commission
(2012-present)
• President-elect, Women in South Pasadena Political Action
• Flintridge Preparatory School, Board of Trustees
(2008-14), including 3 years on the Executive Committee
and Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee
• Boy Scouts of America, San Gabriel Valley Council,
Board of Directors (2010-14), including 3 years as Vice
President, Marketing and Executive Board member
• Pasadena Ronald McDonald House, Board of
Trustees (2009-12)
• President, Flintridge Preparatory School Parents
Association (2006-08)
• Girl Scouts Mt. Wilson-Vista Council, Capital
Campaign Cabinet (2005-07)
• President, Crestview Preparatory School Parents Association
2003-04, and Strategic Planning Committee 2003
Professional/Work Experience:
• Corporate lawyer for over 25 years, with broad experience
including mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance,
corporate governance and general business matters
• O’Melveny & Myers, Los Angeles, CA
• Associate General Counsel, Santa Fe International
Corporation, a multi-national, oil drilling services company
• Associate General Counsel, NeXstar Pharmaceuticals,
Inc., a publicly-held biotechnology company
• Co-Founder and General Counsel, Brightside
Innovations, Inc., a start-up technology corporation
• Education: Ohio State University, J.D. 1985 and
B.S. Industrial and Systems Engineering 1982
Personal Information;
• Married for 28 years; three children, Kristin (25),
Kevin (22) and Brian (19), all AYSO alums
• Played on first Cincinnati-area girls soccer team in
1969 and played SAY soccer 1970-76; played on
high school’s first girls varsity soccer team
healthy opportunities for children and adults, which
helped introduce soccer to the United States in 1964
and created an amazing organization that delivers a
quality, family-friendly and positive sports experience
to thousands of youth across the country, through the
efforts of thousands of volunteers.
Over the past 50 years, the growth of soccer in the
United States has exploded, and the landscape for youth
organizations has changed dramatically. With a 20%
decline in players since 2007, despite the introduction
of the U5 program, AYSO faces a critical juncture in
its 50-year history. AYSO needs to both retain its core
attributes, yet adapt to needed changes to survive and
thrive during the next 50 years. We need to expand and
grow in what we do best and seek new approaches for
our AYSO families’ demands. Specifically, AYSO must
(1) support and assist local regions in their efforts to
run their local programs, (2) explore ways to expand
the AYSO program by examining demographics and
possible partnership opportunities and targeting strategic
geographic areas, (3) identify AYSO’s fundamental
strengths and capitalize on what we do better than
any other organization, (4) partner with US Soccer
and other organizations to improve our programs,
including coaching communications with our players,
and provide additional opportunities for unstructured
play, (5) assist with field development, (6) make changes
in corporate governance that streamline and simplify
AYSO’s processes, mindful of costs and budget, and
(7) continue marketing and fundraising efforts at the
national level. I believe I have the strategic vision,
leadership skills and business and legal expertise to
help guide AYSO forward.
QUESTION 1 - Recognizing that consistency and
quality are key components of AYSO’s national brand,
what are the five most important things that a Region
must do to maintain a successful AYSO program?
To run a successful AYSO program, focus on
fundamentals as follows:
1. Recruit Excellent Leadership and Volunteers. Strong
leadership at the regional board level, including the RC,
builds great programs. RCs must identify committed
volunteers for key positions and put together a great
team. Regions must recruit great volunteers for every
position, from coaches and referees to field personnel
and team managers, train them and thank them profusely.
2. Establish Strong Community Relationships and
Market Your Program. Region volunteers must attend
city council and other local governmental meetings,
talk to community leadership, attend school board
meetings and market their program. Explain how the
AYSO program benefits the community. Local support
is critical for field use and other program needs, and
provides needed marketing and buy-in.
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3. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Whether cancelling practice
b) Busy, highly-programmed and ‘specialized’ children. Children today
due to weather, advertising picture day or reporting team formation, regions
are exposed to lessons, tutoring and structured after school and summer
communities about all aspects of their programs. In addition, regions should
experiencing more stress. Moreover, children are ‘specializing’ in sports,
must regularly and promptly communicate to parents, volunteers and their
communicate with and provide information to other regions, their areas and
sections, the national office, vendors and all others with whom they have an
AYSO relationship. People want timely information, even if it is not great news,
and numerous technologies are available to simplify broad communication.
4. Run a first-class program within your resources. Whatever the breadth
of program a region decides to offer, it must execute and deliver it extremely
well. If a region does not have the fields, coaches, referees or volunteers
activities at younger ages. This often results in children having less time and
arts, music and other activities at younger ages, leaving less time in their
schedules for other activities. In the sports (and soccer) context this is
resulting in earlier “burnout” and injuries rarely seen at young ages even just
a decade ago. Our challenge and opportunity is to reach-out to our youth
and provide a fun and productive experience for children and emphasize
the benefits of delaying ‘specialization’ at an early age.
c) Increased demands on AYSO (and nonprofits generally) with fewer
to offer everything, it should not. Do what is feasible, do it well and build
resources. Nonprofits and other corporate entities face an increasingly complex
5. Stay Positive and Have Fun. Always deliver a positive message,
fewer resources, compounded by the effects of the most recent recession.
from a solid foundation.
be gracious and appreciative, be consistent and fair with discipline,
thank everyone, and make participation in AYSO fun!
QUESTION 2 - Focusing on both growth and retention, what would you
recommend as a Board Member to assist the Areas and Regions to stem
attrition, capitalize on growth opportunities, attract new players and
volunteers and rekindle the AYSO spirit in Regions facing these challenges?
operating environment with more regulation and legal requirements, with
AYSO needs to simplify its own processes and identify and address key
issues. We cannot be all things to all people, but we can deliver and execute
the outstanding programs we offer. We need to innovate and make tough
choices about how best to move forward over the next 50 years, with a
soccer landscape that has changed dramatically since 1964.
AYSO programs must remain fun, positive and relevant to keep players
QUESTION 4 – What do you see as the responsibilities of a National Board
of Director to the volunteer Executive Members that elected that Director?
need to focus on our message that AYSO is important to the development of
volunteers committed to the mission of AYSO, to develop and deliver quality
and volunteers engaged. With a panoply of activities available to families, we
children, families and communities and provides an outstanding foundation
for children, regardless of what they ultimately choose to pursue. Messaging
and marketing will play a role in delivering this message, however, we need
to assist struggling regions with both human and capital resources, and
support and provide it at the local level. We need to strategically identify
growth opportunities for existing regions, focusing on demographics and
local resources, and assist with local challenges. We need to provide
“boots on the ground” in addition to some financial support, and further
assist regions and areas with the identification of local financial support and
other local resources. We need to examine ways in which we can lessen the
demands of running a region or area, and reevaluate which processes and
other requirements are necessary and which may be creating unnecessary
work. We need to listen to areas and regions and understand some of the
challenges they face and respond.
At the national level, we need to strategically identify geographic areas
for growth, with a keen eye toward demographic trends. AYSO needs to
consider and pursue potential partnership opportunities, understanding that
many densely populated areas may have successful soccer organizations
in place, and determining how AYSO fits the landscape. AYSO needs to
continue to pursue revenue sources at the national level which may be
used to seed new or struggling regions. Resources from or identified by the
national office may be necessary to jump-start or launch local programs, but
those programs must be sustained by key local volunteers and community
relationships.
Executive Members and members of the National Board of Directors are all
youth soccer programs which promote a fun, family environment based on
AYSO’s six philosophies. Regional Commissioners, Area Directors and Section
Directors commit their efforts to local soccer programs and the communities
they serve, thus advancing AYSO’s mission at the most critical, local level,
where the program is delivered. The national Board of Directors needs to
support the efforts of the RCs, ADs and SDs by providing necessary resources
and ensuring that AYSO is well managed, fiscally sound and delivering on
its vision to provide world class youth soccer programs that enrich children’s
lives. Members of the AYSO National Board of Directors serve the organization
and the Executive Members who deliver the AYSO program.
Members of the National Board of Directors have legal duties to AYSO as
well. Directors have a duty of care, to provide oversight of AYSO’s activities,
financial position and management, a duty of loyalty to make decisions in
the best interests of AYSO, and not in their own self-interest, and a duty of
obedience to ensure that AYSO acts in accordance with laws and ethical
practices, adheres to its corporate purpose and engages in activities that
advance its mission.
In summary, RCs, ADs and SDs volunteer at the heart of the AYSO program
and need the flexibility to run their regions, areas and sections consistent
with the six philosophies, but in a manner that works for their communities.
National board members need to support the efforts of the Executive Members
while ensuring that AYSO is well managed and financially sound. Board
members need to focus strategically on a changing environment and adapt
as necessary consistent with the mission and vision of AYSO.
QUESTION 3 – Identify three challenges that AYSO faces today that did not
exist in the past. What specific skills or expertise do you possess to address
those challenges.
a) Busier families with “less time to volunteer”. Families today are working
longer hours, and family structures include more single parent families
and two working parents, leaving less time for volunteer activities. AYSO’s
challenge is to (a) emphasize the value and personal rewards derived
from volunteering for AYSO, (b) use volunteer resources efficiently and
effectively so volunteers feel their time is well spent, and (c) think creatively
about recruiting non-parent volunteers or other volunteer resources in our
communities, e.g. local college students, seniors, corporate volunteers.
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BOB DANIEL
CONTACT
(505) 338-1580 (work)
(505) 259-4482 (home)
Rdaniel2@juno.com
For over 21 years I have been an active participant in
CANDIDATE FOR NBOD
AYSO, serving as a coach, a referee, a regional board
ABOUT BOB
roles. In my current role as National Board Member
Personal Information:
• Married to Hollie for 35 years
• Two Children: Bonnie, 30 and Andrew, 27
• University of California, San Diego BA Economics
• Arizona State University, MBA
work with many dedicated volunteers and learn more
AYSO Experience:
• Years with AYSO – 22
• Regional Staff: Team coach; Regional volunteer;
Referee; Age Group Manager, Division Coordinator,
Assistant Regional Commissioner, Regional
Commissioner
• Area staff: Assistant Area Director, Area 12C Director
• Section staff: Section 12 Director
• National Board of Directors
Honors, Accomplishments and Certifications:
•
•
•
•
•
Advanced Coach
Referee - N2
Management - Advanced
Instruction - Management
Instruction - Advanced Coach
• Instruction - Referee
Commissions and/or Task Forces:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
National Programs Staff
National Referee Commission
National Operations Commission
National Nomination Commission
NAGM Task Force
NED Search Committee
National Treasurer
Human Resource Commission
• National Board of Directors Finance Committee
Other Volunteer Work:
• Society of Human Resource Management, New
Mexico State Council, Treasurer and co-Chair of
2016 State Conference
• Tanoan Country Club, Board of Governors’, Member
• Friends of the Public Library, Past President
• Human Resource Management Association of New
Mexico, Past President
• Secretary/Treasurer and co-Founder National
Organization of Trusted Advisors
Professional Experience:
I have worked in finance for over 40 years, serving as a
CFO of a Construction Equipment Distributor and VP of
Finance of a Chamber of Commerce. In my current role,
I am the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Business
Consultant of a local CPA firm. I oversee the firm’s finance,
accounting, marketing, and human resources activities. I
am also responsible for sales, marketing, and consulting
regarding employee benefit plans as well as recruiting for
the firm and its clients.
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member, instructor and in various executive member
and National Treasurer, I have had the opportunity to
about the AYSO program and the challenges we face.
AYSO has gone through many changes in the 50 years
of its existence. My commitment is to help continue the
evolution of AYSO as a world class soccer program that
serves the needs of its participants. It is remarkable how
much we have accomplished with so much dependence
on the love of the program and support of our volunteers.
We have to do a better job of using the talents and
resources our volunteers bring to the organization.
We have to figure out better ways to deliver our current
programs and develop and implement new or enhanced
programs that our participants expect. We have to use
our time, efforts and financial resources wisely if we are
going to continue the proud tradition of AYSO. I want
to continue to be a part of this important quest.
My children have long since left the program. I continue
to be involved because I believe in what AYSO stands
for and all the good things we are trying to do for the
players, parents, and volunteers. I feel I have made a
difference during my years of service and would like the
opportunity to continue to help AYSO grow and prosper.
Every AYSO program is unique and faces different
challenges and issues to be successful. However I
believe the following are always important and necessary
to be successful:
a. Quality customer service: Responsive, timely,
accurate and fair.
b. Leadership transition. Always looking for
replacements in all key roles.
c. Culture of improvement. Volunteers understand
and seek out better ways to do things. Willing to
participate and provide position specific training
for all roles in the Region.
d. Willingness and flexible to work with all players
and volunteers who present themselves. Must
be inclusive, not exclusive. Always finding a
way to add one more player to a team or train
one more volunteer.
e. Have fun! Participation is voluntary. Players,
parents, and volunteers must enjoy themselves
or they will go somewhere else.
QUESTION 2 - Focusing on both growth and retention, what would
you recommend as a Board Member to assist the Areas and Regions to
stem attrition, capitalize on growth opportunities, attract new players and
a. Improve Customer Service at the Regional level. This requires
more training and understanding of what parents and players
expect from our soccer program. Programs need to be managed
year round. When someone calls or sends an email asking why or
how about the local program, they must get an answer in a
reasonable time frame. We can no longer make excuses for not
being responsive (“We are all volunteers”) doesn’t work anymore.
b. Make better use of the current programs and training we currently
have. A learning culture is critical to the success of any region. Its
volunteers must be trained if they are to deliver a quality program.
The more programs we can offer, the more likely we will be able to
meet the needs of our parents and their children.
c. Take advantage of the National Office Marketing resources.
The Marketing Toolkit, the national professional staff, as well as the
Marketing Commission have tremendous ideas and resources
that can help our regions better promote our programs. Regions
have to be effective in marketing what they have to offer. It is not
realistic to think if we run a soccer program, they will come.
QUESTION 3 – Identify three challenges that AYSO faces today that did
not exist in the past. What specific skills or expertise do you possess to
address those challenges?
a. Legal environment. AYSO is a target/magnet for lawsuits.
b. Increasing competition from other soccer programs (going after
younger and recreational players), other youth sports (lacrosse and
others), and other youth organizations
c. Meeting the needs of the new generation of players and parents.
Skills and Expertise to address those Challenges
I don’t have any magic bullets that will allow us to overcome all these
challenges. However, I am engaged and focused on:
a. Willingness to listen and discuss issues and concerns
b. Open to new ideas and flexible. Realize there is not one magic
solution for all regions
c. Focused on helping. I always want to be part of solution.
d. Committed to have more kids playing AYSO soccer.
e. Make sure that we always remember that we have to effectively and
efficiently handle and spend the kid’s money wisely.
QUESTION 4 – What do you see as the responsibilities of a National Board
of Director to the volunteer Executive Members that elected that Director?
a. A willingness to listen to their concerns and be willing to find
ways to help.
b. Work to help find ways that help save volunteers time and effort so
they can focus on the key roles of their positions.
c. Make sure that AYSO offers the programs and training that its
volunteers need to manage their programs.
d. Be honest and open.
23
DANA DI PRIMA
CANDIDATE FOR NBOD
ABOUT DANA
(Rhymes with “banana”)
CONTACT
(646) 335-3247 (cell)
danadiprima@mac.com
commissioner@wssl.org
Personal:
I have had the privilege of serving as the Regional Commissioner
of Region 611 in New York City for the past 10 years. At this
point, most people (knowing how demanding NYC parents
can be) ask me why I keep at it. I tell them what I tell you
now: I love the game, I love the kids and I actually love the
opportunity to engage their parents in the committed and
passionate community that we have built. My kids – ages 16
and 14 – grew up playing in our region and my husband of 21
years still laughs when he is identified as “the commissioner’s
husband”! In short, AYSO has been a huge part of my family’s
life and my community’s life and I am not done giving back!
AYSO Experience:
Oversee region of 4000 players and their families; managed
many league transformations relating to technology, small-sided
play and the addition of a two-tiered competitive program to
address the needs of a growing community.
• Regional Commissioner, Region 611, New York City,
2005 to present
• Coach, Region 611, 2003 to present
• Division Head, Region 611, 2003-2005
Professional/Work Experience:
Extensive professional experience in strategic partnerships,
fundraising, corporate strategy, non-profit management,
marketing and public relations, program development and
evaluation
• Executive Vice President, Cause Related Marketing,
Group M, 2003-2009
• Deputy Director, Children’s Museum of Manhattan,
1996-2002
• Evaluator, US General Accounting Office, 1989-1995
Other Sports-Related Experience:
• New York Leadership Council, United States Soccer
Foundation, 2010 to present
Other Soccer-Related Accomplishments/Recognition:
• 2012 WESTY Award for Community Service in
NYC’s Upper West Side Community
• 2011 Honored by Riverside Park in New York City
for Service to the Community
• 2008 Local Hero Recognition by New York Family
Magazine
I have a passion for soccer that grew from when I
started playing in a recreational league in North Carolina
when I was seven. I have played on and off ever since
and have had the thrill of sharing my love of the game
with my children and thousands of NYC children and
their families for the past 12 years.
In 12 years with Region 611, I have had the good
fortune to lead several successful transformations of
the region’s programming through dedicated efforts
to 1) recruit and retain the best volunteers, 2) adjust
programming to serve the kids in the best possible way,
3) create administrative solutions that allow volunteers
to focus their efforts more squarely on soccer, and 4)
build excitement and deeper soccer passion through
partnerships with an MLS team (New York Red Bulls)
and other soccer-related entities. Creative thinking
and innovation have been at the center of all of these
programs/partnerships, many of which serve as models
for any region, big or small, and for AYSO nationwide.
I am motivated to run for the NBOD by three factors:
1) the kids – any good we achieve at the national level
stands to make better soccer programs for all our kids,
2) the volunteers – the tireless effort they put into running
a region – big or small – is intensely motivating to me;
whatever I can do to make their jobs easier is a top
priority, and 3) the challenges that AYSO programs face,
particularly the recruitment of children to play competitive
soccer younger and younger in clubs that lack the good
values and positive life lessons that AYSO celebrates.
As an NBOD member, I would focus my efforts primarily
on removing barriers and creating opportunities for a
future that is full of success for every region.
To achieve consistency and quality a region MUST:
1. Recruit and retain excellent, committed,
responsive, passionate volunteers,
2. Conduct administrative duties seamlessly
and efficiently,
3. Ensure a safe, fair and fun environment in the
youngest to the most competitive levels,
4. Build soccer programs that meet the growing\
needs of the community and connect them with
soccer in the local area as well as across
the nation
5. Establish key partnerships that give the region’s
programs added depth and excitement
Without dedicated volunteers, no region can
succeed. Maintaining a quality volunteer leadership
group is the number one job for any region, big or
small. Once that is in place, the next priority is to
make registration and scheduling easy for everyone,
administrators and participants alike. Then the fun
24
part starts! How can a region take advantage of its local and national
resources to get kids even more jazzed up about soccer than ever before?
How can each region develop the best players possible…players who
continue to develop skills as well as a strong sense of sportsmanship
and community? Who can help? Who in the community can share their
resources to make the soccer programs even better? In ten years as the
Regional Commissioner of Region 611, these five priorities have guided my
every action and decision and the region is strong and vibrant as a result.
QUESTION 2 - Focusing on both growth and retention, what would you
recommend as a Board Member to assist the Areas and Regions to stem
attrition, capitalize on growth opportunities, attract new players and
1) Stem attrition: The best way to keep players and their families engaged
is to give them a quality soccer program that they cannot get anywhere
else. After that, every region needs an easy way to get players registered,
manage data and share information.
2) Capitalize on Growth Opportunities: For busy volunteers, it’s easy to
want to say no to new initiatives that mean more work, but taking advantage
of new programs is essential. New programs help keep things fresh and
interesting for participants, and as demand for soccer grows and more
groups decide to provide soccer, AYSO must keep its edge.
3) Attract new players and volunteers: Working with local soccer-based
resources for youth skills development training, coach clinics and referee
Q&As have helped us retain players and volunteers. Region-wide recognition
programs have also helped not only to celebrate volunteer accomplishments
but also to recruit new volunteers to higher level and harder working posts.
Finally, and perhaps most difficult, we have worked to build local excitement
through partnership and alignment with a locally based professional team.
The partnership has impacted every part of our region and has resulted in
much higher retention.
4) Rekindle the AYSO spirit: The AYSO spirit is truly cherished by
families of young players. What’s missing is the application of that spirit
to more competitive teams. Too often, we find that competitive clubs lack
the “heart and soul” that AYSO embodies. Over the past 3 years, we have
demonstrated that you can have it all. Our competitive teams are winning
with parent coaches, all players getting playing time and sportsmanship
and positive coaching leading the way. I would like to see mor competitive
AYSO teams pop up in communities where the demand is strong.
QUESTION 3 – Identify three challenges that AYSO faces today that did
not exist in the past. What specific skills or expertise do you possess to
address those challenges?
The three biggest challenges that AYSO faces today are:
• Developed a website and managed information systems with third-party
developer to serve regional needs
• Developed three key programs to provide a wide range of player
opportunities -- core (intramural), tournament (hybrid IM + travel) and
travel (competitive)
• Navigated transition from “intramural only” to include competitive teams
against strident opposition from others who believe AYSO should not be
in that space
• Forged a major partnership with MLS’s New York Red Bulls that
includes training, coach clinics and game privileges for every program
• Developed and refurbished fields and other soccer spaces in
collaboration with the NYC Parks Department
• Tripled the size of the region’s VIP division and engagement of
mainstream teams in VIP games
• In the process of hosting new tournaments and developing an indoor
soccer facility.
QUESTION 4 – What do you see as the responsibilities of a National
Board of Director to the volunteer Executive Members that elected
that Director?
It is the primary responsibility of the NBOD to be true to the Regions in
all of the decisions they make. The Regions are making the soccer happen
for our children and they need to be supported emphatically. Coming
from a Region, I will not lose sight of that fact. And despite the fact that I
come from a huge region, I will not forget that much of the nation is built of
small regions. On the NBOD, I will support our regions with excellence in:
1) Vision & Ingenuity: We have to think creatively about how we continue
to provide soccer programs to children and their families, especially in a
world where so many providers are trying to win the allegiance of the same
group of players. The NBOD needs to identify new program ideas that draw
players to AYSO, to make the administration of soccer easier for everyone
and to embrace new partnerships that will give AYSO an edge.
2) Clarity & Focus: It is important to identify the key priorities and then
work doggedly to find lasting solutions. Without that approach, we could
address a lot of issues and solve none of them.
3) Change Management: Change can be a good thing. To remain
viable, every organization needs a fresh new perspective or a great new
addition. I have been successful at managing change at the regional level
administratively and soccer-wise. Registration is easier now and constantly
getting better. Players get more touches on the ball through small-sided play,
extended play opportunities and the addition of two levels of competitive
teams, all which continue to embrace the AYSO ethos. It does not mean
that everyone went along easily, but in the end, our region grew stronger
and our kids and families increased their engagement with the programs.
1) Greater demand for soccer at many commitment levels and year round
2) Many competing soccer options, not all of them about player
development, positive coaching and good sportsmanship
3) Space to play
Specific skills or expertise:
I have faced each of these challenges in running a region of 4000 kids for the
past ten years. Kids and families love soccer and have become interested
in playing more and at more competitive levels. If we don’t provide a strong
competitive program, players will go elsewhere to get one.
I am very clear on the challenges that AYSO regions face in maintaining
players in a competitive soccer market. Over the past several years, I have:
• Increased spring season from 1,000 to 3,800
• Migrated registration from paper to on-line & enhanced on-line
registration annually
25
AARON LUCE
CANDIDATE FOR NBOD
CONTACT
(505) 933-2505
aaronhluce@gmail.com
26
FY 2015 BUDGET INFORMATION
The Annual Budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016 will be available for your
review after May 11, 2015. For Executive Members to view or download a copy of the budget prior to the
NAGM, login to eAYSO and select the Annual Budgets menu item as described in the picture below.
Please download a copy of the budget and bring it with you to the NAGM.
27
NOTES
NAGM INFORMATION BOOKLET
28
NOTES
NAGM INFORMATION BOOKLET
29
American Youth Soccer Organization
NATIONAL
ANNUAL
GENERAL
MEETING
May 22-24, 2015 Phoenix, CA
AYSO National Office • 19750 S. Vermont Ave., Suite 200 • Torrance, CA 90502
800-USA-AYSO • www.AYSO.org

NATIONAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - NAGM 2015

Transcription

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