Memorandum of Understanding
Every
now and again well-meaning neighbors can step back, think outside the
box, check their egos, recognize strengths in others, overlook their
rivalry and forge what, at first blush, may have been hard to envision,
but what will be recognized as a solid relationship for decades.
Adhering to an established timeline, the Boards and Directors of
Coaching for the Black Watch Soccer Club and the New Tampa Soccer
Association, both charitable non-profit corporations, have resolved to
become one club at the completion of the 2009 state cup. The new club
will respect the history, tradition and accomplishments and capitalize
on key administrative and coaching strengths of both clubs in its
mission to better train developmental and competitive players of all
ages, focus and abilities. We intend to employ a streamlined device to
form this union, yet one that will best leverage off of our respective
spheres of influence. This union is forged on the following core
concepts for our new club:
• A focus on serving all of the
children in our community by making a place for every player and family:
developmental, competitive and premier.
• An emphasis on player and team
development, not winning at any cost.
• A club-based focus, philosophy
and decision-making process.
• A clearly defined and highly
effective governing structure with a small, nimble board for general
oversight and long-term guidance; an independent, professional soccer
staff for day-to-day soccer operations and decision-making; and an
administrative staff for day-to-day business operations and
decision-making.
• A new name and new uniforms for
the new club.
• A firm financial footing that is
based on transparent and professionally directed business practices and
that is accountable to the club’s constituents.
·
This union is seen only as a win-win scenario and all
decisions have been unanimous. To bring these clubs and their programs
together was far too significant of an opportunity and far too serious
of a responsibility to be ignored. In keeping with the weight of that
responsibility, new administrative and coaching structures have been
devised to best effect a smooth transition and to best utilize the
strengths and personnel of both clubs. The respective Boards, as well as
both administrative and coaching staffs, are applauded for their vision,
flexibility and commitment to what will be best for soccer, even if this
union may have an adverse impact on individual interests. For some the
decision to merge these clubs can only be described and remembered as an
altruistic one.
In these coming weeks and months we will seek the support and patience
of our members while, from the ground up, we will create a new
environment where our players can flourish. The anticipated patience and
support of those loyal members will be both appreciated and rewarded.
For the good of soccer in the Tampa Bay area the Black Watch Soccer Club
and the New Tampa Soccer Association will no longer remain separate,
independent and competing operations.
Please set aside the late afternoon of Sunday, April 26, 2009 for (and
be on the lookout for additional information concerning) the special
grand opening ceremonies of the Fusion Futbol Club of Tampa Bay in the
auditorium of Freedom High School.
