FDSA President’s Message 2010

On behalf of the FDSA Board of Directors, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you as we enter the 2010 soccer season. The Board has been working since last fall to plan and prepare for the upcoming season as we are strive to make 2010 an enjoyable soccer experience for everyone.

I am pleased to announce the addition of three new members of our Board: Chris Hand (VP Operations), Matt Forster (Division I Director) and Bryant Harding (Director-at-Large). As we welcome new Board members we say goodbye and extend a well deserved thank you to outgoing President, Ron Bertin and Director of Youth, Marc Voisine for their great contributions. Both gentlemen have spent countless hours working on behalf of FDSA and their efforts are greatly appreciated.

One of the major events held every fall is an FDSA Planning Session.  During this session, the Board reviews feedback from all members, as well as year-end reports provided by the Directors. This feedback is essential in improving our programs and planning for the following year.

Other notable events during the fall saw FDSA make a presentation to City Council. This was one of a number of meetings our Field Development Committee held with government and other potential partners in pursuing improved and additional soccer pitches. It should be noted that having the newly generated FDSA Strategic Plan for each of these encounters was very well accepted. Special thanks to Chris Tumwine for his leadership in guiding the Board through the development of this critical organizational vision.               

From all accounts the establishment and running of the West Region Soccer Association (WRSA) and associated Division I league (WRSL) was very successful. Hats off to Macky Singh, West Region Technical Director and Tim McGarry, Interim Chair of the WRSA, for their excellent work. A new WRSA Board was elected in October and FDSA is looking forward to working with the Association in the coming year.

In closing I would like to say thank you to all our volunteers and corporate sponsors. Whether involved in the recreational or competitive programs, our soccer programs would not flourish without each of you. We are one of the largest sporting organizations in the province but it is the quality of our programs, provided through our volunteers and corporate generosity, which make us proud. We will be seeking your help again through the 2010 season.

With the continued excellent day-to-day administration of the FDSA office by our Executive Director, the vision of our Board of Directors and the dedication of our valuable volunteers, I very much look forward to another successful soccer season.

Yours in Soccer,

Mike Gagnon

President