The expected controversial LHA meeting came and went tonight, and the LHA Board showed it is simply working hard to build a better hockey program for the kids.
There was tension in the air before the meeting started. Maristar, USA!USA!USA, jackdaw, and others who cried "UNFAIR and CORRUPTION" were all huddled way back in the corner, ready to strike...
It appears all board members were present. Lined from end to end of the stage ready to present and answer questions. An estimated 200+ people attended. 7:00pm approached and the meeting began. Here we go...
The President (who doesn't seem very intimidating) welcomed the members and a VP started the presentation. Very clear, very detailed, with no smoke, mirrors, or tricks. Many topics were covered: gambling, development, later start time, costs, dryand at the total hockey, tryouts, coaches, fundraising, volunteering, etc. Lots of good info. All in the open, nothing to hide, eager to answer questions if necessary.
Then came the guy named Gus, the paid development person. Much different story than what was posted here in the last few days. He deserves an apology. He gave a detailed outline of his intent and what players, coaches, and parents should expect from him. Players will get better coaching, more opportunity to play in games, and a development group who is looking out for them. At the end of this presentation, A ROUND OF APPLAUSE from the members! Yes, APPLAUSE! No booing, thrown tomatoes, or shots fired from the balcony. The members are excited their kids are finally going to have equal playing time and opportunity to succeed! Youth hockey is about more than just the A team! Hooray!
The meeting continued, good information, detailed information! They are working with the high school coaches, getting them involved. Prior board leaders shunned the high school coaches, tried to shut them out. Now LHA has continuity to the HS programs! Good stuff for the community and building pride in working hard to reach the high school hockey teams.
The board individually introduced themselves. They appear better organized for this program than I have seen in the 10+ years I have had kids playing in LHA. Looking forward to good things to come.
All who presented repeatedly provided their contact info encouraging every member to call, email, attend meetings if they are concerned or have questions. The VP presenter called the LHA "User Friendly". I believe it now, but could never have in the past. These guys and gals are sincere, you could see it in their faces and willingness to present their part when needed. Various members shared their areas of expertise on the board when called upon. No-one hoarded the microphone, no-one micro-managed, no-one dictating the way as you were led to believe by the people who started the previous rant on this forum.
Finally came the time for questions. Any question, please ask!... Silence... One hand goes up. Question 1, in regards to tryout evaluators. Answered. Question 2, explain the late start again please. Answered. Question 3. What forms do I need to fill out? Answered. Question 4. When do tryouts start. Answered. Question 5. Something about clinics. Answered... Any more questions? Anyone? OK, if you would prefer coming up afterward to ask questions, please do, they will wait until everyone is gone. As I watched I saw a few going up, but they left with a smile, or a handshake.
As expected, the group in the way back corner slithered out, deflated. Their mission didn't succeed this time... Great poetry, legal research, days of creating multiple monikers, twisting words, creating false scenarios, and even calling out board member names. Back to work fellas. Next board meeting is the 2nd Wednesday of the month. I am sure they would like to see you there and listen to your needs!
Respectfully,
Excited LHA Parent
(enjoying the extra month with my family without hockey!)
Lakeville Hockey Is Playing by the Rules and MORE
Moderators: Mitch Hawker, east hockey, karl(east)
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hockeyparent9999
- Posts: 4
- Joined: Thu Sep 30, 2010 5:14 pm
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rashreid20
- Posts: 26
- Joined: Wed Dec 09, 2009 10:01 pm
All of this is why many parents are finding AAA hockey a preferred option.
You write your check.
Your kid makes friends with kids from all over.
Parents that complain find their kid doesn't have a spot the next year.
Kids that are trouble don't get called back.
Kids that don't like their teammates can move on to another team.
Virtually all of the kids playing AAA and their families love the game and want more of it (while association hockey always tends to dumb down to the lowest common denominator - from later start dates to requiring A's to have game and practice ratios equivalent to the C's).
You don't have to have community town halls to deal with malcontents or on the other hand - board's that are secretive.
Ask any kid or parent which season they like better - AAA or association - and the resounding reply is AAA. Something needs to be fixed.
Politics, rumors, lies, etc. often define association hockey - sometimes coming from boards, sometimes coming from the chronically unhappy. Sounds like these Lakeville guys did great and they should be applauded based on the abuse they took on this board.
You write your check.
Your kid makes friends with kids from all over.
Parents that complain find their kid doesn't have a spot the next year.
Kids that are trouble don't get called back.
Kids that don't like their teammates can move on to another team.
Virtually all of the kids playing AAA and their families love the game and want more of it (while association hockey always tends to dumb down to the lowest common denominator - from later start dates to requiring A's to have game and practice ratios equivalent to the C's).
You don't have to have community town halls to deal with malcontents or on the other hand - board's that are secretive.
Ask any kid or parent which season they like better - AAA or association - and the resounding reply is AAA. Something needs to be fixed.
Politics, rumors, lies, etc. often define association hockey - sometimes coming from boards, sometimes coming from the chronically unhappy. Sounds like these Lakeville guys did great and they should be applauded based on the abuse they took on this board.
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hockeyparent9999
- Posts: 4
- Joined: Thu Sep 30, 2010 5:14 pm
[quote="rashreid20"]All of this is why many parents are finding AAA hockey a preferred option.
...
Virtually all of the kids playing AAA and their families love the game and want more of it (while association hockey always tends to dumb down to the lowest common denominator - from later start dates to requiring A's to have game and practice ratios equivalent to the C's).
...[/quote]
Great points, rashreid20. It is good there are options for parents/players who want a different hockey experience, and there will be more to come for sure. Places like Minnesota Made will continue to develop the choice programs and AAA programs for those that desire that level of hockey commitment and can handle the costs for more ice & games.
I would however slightly disagree with one of your points of the "dumbing down to C concept". I have two players, one in the A range, and one that is in the C range. I would argue that the average association C player is being forced to more of an A schedule: 60+ hours of ice, traveling tournaments, expensive jerseys, etc. In-house hockey is long gone from most Minnesota associations at post-mite levels. More kids would be playing hockey "for fun" if there were less demanding schedules and reasonable costs.
Have a good night!
...
Virtually all of the kids playing AAA and their families love the game and want more of it (while association hockey always tends to dumb down to the lowest common denominator - from later start dates to requiring A's to have game and practice ratios equivalent to the C's).
...[/quote]
Great points, rashreid20. It is good there are options for parents/players who want a different hockey experience, and there will be more to come for sure. Places like Minnesota Made will continue to develop the choice programs and AAA programs for those that desire that level of hockey commitment and can handle the costs for more ice & games.
I would however slightly disagree with one of your points of the "dumbing down to C concept". I have two players, one in the A range, and one that is in the C range. I would argue that the average association C player is being forced to more of an A schedule: 60+ hours of ice, traveling tournaments, expensive jerseys, etc. In-house hockey is long gone from most Minnesota associations at post-mite levels. More kids would be playing hockey "for fun" if there were less demanding schedules and reasonable costs.
Have a good night!
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CoachRabbit
- Posts: 21
- Joined: Tue Feb 03, 2009 9:23 pm
reply
There is reasons why many players leave the association for other high school opportunities. There has never been continuity with the north high school coach. He has never entertained the development and retention of the association's top talent. The likes of Schroeder, Brutlag, Crandall, Smejia, Arentz, Skjei, Detlefsen, McDonald, etc. They all have left. without the knowledge of the head high school coach.
The main issue that I have for this program is the fact that Barger was hired for a position that the head high school coach should have implemented himself. well i dont know ten fifteen years into his tenure as the capstone of this program.. that is the head high school coach right?
If you have passion for the game and the program in which you have been apart of for many years then why haven't we accoplished even a little committment for the assocation and the high school program. Simply because there remains no leadership in the postion that I personally believe is one of the most important. Head High School coach...
Politics will be politics... the issues of the board etc. have all been expressed in one shape or form in the past.. bridge over water.. in my opinion. many people do not understand the commitment that board members make to this association. However, it is these members that volunteered in the first place. many of us know that good parents would not allow a person no matter what his intentions are for the assocation and the development of the youth program when you have a track record like this man. Sorry to say that your history follows you where ever you go, but Barger has had opportunities to show that he is a changed man, and continuously falters in this attempt. He dug his own grave and no one owes him any favors in this association. It is your responsbility as parents and board members to act in the best interest of your children 1,000 in total.
Again look at one of the most success programs in the state of minnesota in the past 20 years. Bloomington Jefferson comes to minf. and what do they have that lakeville does not?
A passionate leader that works in the direct interest of the youth and their development. Saderdaline (Spelling) head high school hockey coach. was just as passionate in the youth program program as his own high school hockey teams in the past. He built a legacy and a great hockey history in this way. Not many quality players in this association say guess what mom and dad i can't wait to be a Panther or a Cougar. Instead it is let's win another JV state tournament at St. Thomas or Holy Angels, or go play for the Greenbay Gamblers in Juniors because the head hockey coach is not going to develop my talents to their fullpotential, nor take enough interest in my hockey career after high school. How many letters of recommendation has he written for his players?
We need to build traditions in the association that need to come down from the high school programs to strengthen the bond of youth hockey players and the high school.
Another note is that we had Lakeville have numerous volunteers as managers and coaches and it is upsetting to see this figure 30K going to one single volunteer. Why not invest the money into less ice premiums?
The season starting a month after close to all metro programs is just dumb ot say the least. this one is a new one for me. no explanation needed.
The main issue that I have for this program is the fact that Barger was hired for a position that the head high school coach should have implemented himself. well i dont know ten fifteen years into his tenure as the capstone of this program.. that is the head high school coach right?
If you have passion for the game and the program in which you have been apart of for many years then why haven't we accoplished even a little committment for the assocation and the high school program. Simply because there remains no leadership in the postion that I personally believe is one of the most important. Head High School coach...
Politics will be politics... the issues of the board etc. have all been expressed in one shape or form in the past.. bridge over water.. in my opinion. many people do not understand the commitment that board members make to this association. However, it is these members that volunteered in the first place. many of us know that good parents would not allow a person no matter what his intentions are for the assocation and the development of the youth program when you have a track record like this man. Sorry to say that your history follows you where ever you go, but Barger has had opportunities to show that he is a changed man, and continuously falters in this attempt. He dug his own grave and no one owes him any favors in this association. It is your responsbility as parents and board members to act in the best interest of your children 1,000 in total.
Again look at one of the most success programs in the state of minnesota in the past 20 years. Bloomington Jefferson comes to minf. and what do they have that lakeville does not?
A passionate leader that works in the direct interest of the youth and their development. Saderdaline (Spelling) head high school hockey coach. was just as passionate in the youth program program as his own high school hockey teams in the past. He built a legacy and a great hockey history in this way. Not many quality players in this association say guess what mom and dad i can't wait to be a Panther or a Cougar. Instead it is let's win another JV state tournament at St. Thomas or Holy Angels, or go play for the Greenbay Gamblers in Juniors because the head hockey coach is not going to develop my talents to their fullpotential, nor take enough interest in my hockey career after high school. How many letters of recommendation has he written for his players?
We need to build traditions in the association that need to come down from the high school programs to strengthen the bond of youth hockey players and the high school.
Another note is that we had Lakeville have numerous volunteers as managers and coaches and it is upsetting to see this figure 30K going to one single volunteer. Why not invest the money into less ice premiums?
The season starting a month after close to all metro programs is just dumb ot say the least. this one is a new one for me. no explanation needed.
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hockeyparent9999
- Posts: 4
- Joined: Thu Sep 30, 2010 5:14 pm
Just some background of the north coach you speak of CoachRabbit. Being in the association before the north-south split, child #1 played under the current north coach. Now younger child is south, working hard to hopefully play for the south coach when the time comes.
North head coach did put time and energy towards the early LHA. Tried to be involved, then was ran out, and basically held out by the LHA board because they had better ideas. North coach likely has reservations about getting involved, devoting time, then being tossed out again. Probably better to just focus on HS program where he makes progress.
Current south coach currently has a well formed group of dedicated and passionate youth level coaches from all age groups. Holds regular meetings with them sharing ideas. Shares the locker room with youth teams. Sends players to the youth practices. He is building that mini-mite to HS tradition on the South. It is evident the South has more loyalty to this game plan.
The recent LHA board seems to be embracing that concept heavily. Apparently trying to make a North HS connection however possible. It will make for an overall stronger association if the full connection can be made on both sides.
North head coach did put time and energy towards the early LHA. Tried to be involved, then was ran out, and basically held out by the LHA board because they had better ideas. North coach likely has reservations about getting involved, devoting time, then being tossed out again. Probably better to just focus on HS program where he makes progress.
Current south coach currently has a well formed group of dedicated and passionate youth level coaches from all age groups. Holds regular meetings with them sharing ideas. Shares the locker room with youth teams. Sends players to the youth practices. He is building that mini-mite to HS tradition on the South. It is evident the South has more loyalty to this game plan.
The recent LHA board seems to be embracing that concept heavily. Apparently trying to make a North HS connection however possible. It will make for an overall stronger association if the full connection can be made on both sides.
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CoachRabbit
- Posts: 21
- Joined: Tue Feb 03, 2009 9:23 pm
Agree with post regarding the south program. great foundation for Cougar hockey. Just pains me to see a man that has been the LHS high school hockey coach for so many years and yet to make this connection that south has already made in its short history. most of content was directed toward north. Speaking from more than 20 years at the lakeville hockey association. but RS was ran out of the board because he did not participate in the small tasks that were asked of him. HS coach should not have to have baord approval to commit to change. KW is very personable with his players and acts as a great role model to their development as young men. Really took the bull by the horns in South program. why not that from RS. He has used avoidance to shun his responsbility to the youth program. Admit he is a good man not a good coach that has a vision. The difference in South and North is leadership from the head of all coaching..
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CoachRabbit
- Posts: 21
- Joined: Tue Feb 03, 2009 9:23 pm
And GB update?
Again coaches that were under RS that had the potential to commit to their players wholeheartedly saving their names for purposes of this forum were run out by RS. These coaches were pushed aside for the mere fact that RS feared their dedication for the program and did not want to play the sape and appear underqualified.
Again coaches that were under RS that had the potential to commit to their players wholeheartedly saving their names for purposes of this forum were run out by RS. These coaches were pushed aside for the mere fact that RS feared their dedication for the program and did not want to play the sape and appear underqualified.
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northwoods oldtimer
- Posts: 2679
- Joined: Thu Dec 21, 2006 1:01 pm
LN
Boy this sounds great for Lakeville North kids. Hope this helps the program keep some kids playing local on up through the high school level. Looks like a great model for the kids to develop under. I wish them all the best.
I think it's great that fireworks were avoided last night. Cooler heads prevailed. That's always a good thing.
9999's account is informative. There is obviously a good deal of support behind the direction LHA is going. The thing that seems missing is any explanation for the manner in which things were done and I consider that the primary issue.
Whether a board is adding or dismissing volunteers or employees. Whether they are trying to put everything into building the next peewee A state championship team or making sure every kid sees the ice, there is a process to be followed along with communication responsibilities. It all needs to be done as professionally as possible.
Boards have to respect the process and communicate with the membership or the changes they implement are doomed to be replaced by the next set of parents getting ready to take over in a couple of years.
9999's account is informative. There is obviously a good deal of support behind the direction LHA is going. The thing that seems missing is any explanation for the manner in which things were done and I consider that the primary issue.
Whether a board is adding or dismissing volunteers or employees. Whether they are trying to put everything into building the next peewee A state championship team or making sure every kid sees the ice, there is a process to be followed along with communication responsibilities. It all needs to be done as professionally as possible.
Boards have to respect the process and communicate with the membership or the changes they implement are doomed to be replaced by the next set of parents getting ready to take over in a couple of years.
Re: reply
Not being a smartypants, did you go to the meeting?CoachRabbit wrote:There is reasons why many players leave the association for other high school opportunities. There has never been continuity with the north high school coach. He has never entertained the development and retention of the association's top talent. The likes of Schroeder, Brutlag, Crandall, Smejia, Arentz, Skjei, Detlefsen, McDonald, etc. They all have left. without the knowledge of the head high school coach.
The main issue that I have for this program is the fact that Barger was hired for a position that the head high school coach should have implemented himself. well i dont know ten fifteen years into his tenure as the capstone of this program.. that is the head high school coach right?
If you have passion for the game and the program in which you have been apart of for many years then why haven't we accoplished even a little committment for the assocation and the high school program. Simply because there remains no leadership in the postion that I personally believe is one of the most important. Head High School coach...
Politics will be politics... the issues of the board etc. have all been expressed in one shape or form in the past.. bridge over water.. in my opinion. many people do not understand the commitment that board members make to this association. However, it is these members that volunteered in the first place. many of us know that good parents would not allow a person no matter what his intentions are for the assocation and the development of the youth program when you have a track record like this man. Sorry to say that your history follows you where ever you go, but Barger has had opportunities to show that he is a changed man, and continuously falters in this attempt. He dug his own grave and no one owes him any favors in this association. It is your responsbility as parents and board members to act in the best interest of your children 1,000 in total.
Again look at one of the most success programs in the state of minnesota in the past 20 years. Bloomington Jefferson comes to minf. and what do they have that lakeville does not?
A passionate leader that works in the direct interest of the youth and their development. Saderdaline (Spelling) head high school hockey coach. was just as passionate in the youth program program as his own high school hockey teams in the past. He built a legacy and a great hockey history in this way. Not many quality players in this association say guess what mom and dad i can't wait to be a Panther or a Cougar. Instead it is let's win another JV state tournament at St. Thomas or Holy Angels, or go play for the Greenbay Gamblers in Juniors because the head hockey coach is not going to develop my talents to their fullpotential, nor take enough interest in my hockey career after high school. How many letters of recommendation has he written for his players?
We need to build traditions in the association that need to come down from the high school programs to strengthen the bond of youth hockey players and the high school.
Another note is that we had Lakeville have numerous volunteers as managers and coaches and it is upsetting to see this figure 30K going to one single volunteer. Why not invest the money into less ice premiums?
The season starting a month after close to all metro programs is just dumb ot say the least. this one is a new one for me. no explanation needed.
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USA! USA! USA!
- Posts: 31
- Joined: Wed Sep 29, 2010 10:23 pm
Re: Lakeville Hockey Is Playing by the Rules and MORE
Looks like maristar may have accomplished what he set out to do. congrats.hockeyparent9999 wrote: Very clear, very detailed, with no smoke, mirrors, or tricks. Many topics were covered: gambling, development, later start time, costs, dryand at the total hockey, tryouts, coaches, fundraising, volunteering, etc. Lots of good info. All in the open, nothing to hide, eager to answer questions if necessary.
Checks and balances are important, and it seems in this case this forum may have been exactly the vehicle to accomplish that.
If maistars post brought out that many members to a board meeting and resulted in this type of transparancy, then maybe more folks should use this forum for similar results.
Good for maristar and good for Lakeville.
Always nicer to see a happy ending.
Roses are Red
Violets are Blue
Hats off to maristar
if what's written is true
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defensezone
Re: Lakeville Hockey Is Playing by the Rules and MORE
[quote="hockeyparent9999"]The expected controversial LHA meeting came and went tonight, and the LHA Board showed it is simply working hard to build a better hockey program for the kids.
There was tension in the air before the meeting started. Maristar, USA!USA!USA, jackdaw, and others who cried "UNFAIR and CORRUPTION" were all huddled way back in the corner, ready to strike...
It appears all board members were present. Lined from end to end of the stage ready to present and answer questions. An estimated 200+ people attended. 7:00pm approached and the meeting began. Here we go...
The President (who doesn't seem very intimidating) welcomed the members and a VP started the presentation. Very clear, very detailed, with no smoke, mirrors, or tricks. Many topics were covered: gambling, development, later start time, costs, dryand at the total hockey, tryouts, coaches, fundraising, volunteering, etc. Lots of good info. All in the open, nothing to hide, eager to answer questions if necessary.
Then came the guy named Gus, the paid development person. Much different story than what was posted here in the last few days. He deserves an apology. He gave a detailed outline of his intent and what players, coaches, and parents should expect from him. Players will get better coaching, more opportunity to play in games, and a development group who is looking out for them. At the end of this presentation, A ROUND OF APPLAUSE from the members! Yes, APPLAUSE! No booing, thrown tomatoes, or shots fired from the balcony. The members are excited their kids are finally going to have equal playing time and opportunity to succeed! Youth hockey is about more than just the A team! Hooray!
The meeting continued, good information, detailed information! They are working with the high school coaches, getting them involved. Prior board leaders shunned the high school coaches, tried to shut them out. Now LHA has continuity to the HS programs! Good stuff for the community and building pride in working hard to reach the high school hockey teams.
The board individually introduced themselves. They appear better organized for this program than I have seen in the 10+ years I have had kids playing in LHA. Looking forward to good things to come.
All who presented repeatedly provided their contact info encouraging every member to call, email, attend meetings if they are concerned or have questions. The VP presenter called the LHA "User Friendly". I believe it now, but could never have in the past. These guys and gals are sincere, you could see it in their faces and willingness to present their part when needed. Various members shared their areas of expertise on the board when called upon. No-one hoarded the microphone, no-one micro-managed, no-one dictating the way as you were led to believe by the people who started the previous rant on this forum.
Finally came the time for questions. Any question, please ask!... Silence... One hand goes up. Question 1, in regards to tryout evaluators. Answered. Question 2, explain the late start again please. Answered. Question 3. What forms do I need to fill out? Answered. Question 4. When do tryouts start. Answered. Question 5. Something about clinics. Answered... Any more questions? Anyone? OK, if you would prefer coming up afterward to ask questions, please do, they will wait until everyone is gone. As I watched I saw a few going up, but they left with a smile, or a handshake.
As expected, the group in the way back corner slithered out, deflated. Their mission didn't succeed this time... Great poetry, legal research, days of creating multiple monikers, twisting words, creating false scenarios, and even calling out board member names. Back to work fellas. Next board meeting is the 2nd Wednesday of the month. I am sure they would like to see you there and listen to your needs!
Respectfully,
Excited LHA Parent
(enjoying the extra month with my family without hockey!)
9999…Last night was great! Everyone was hugging, giving out high fives, shaking hands, and slapping backs. It reminds me of Jim Thome when he hits the game winning homerun. Wow! But after all is said, the fact still stands; there are a few board members that have over stepped their authority.
It has nothing to do with ice hours, start times, tryouts, high school coaches, development, etc. It has to do with a board member or two, or even more that have developed their own set of rules (not following the association by laws). By doing this, they have created a new set of standards that have truly damaged the basic principle of representation and accountability among all board members. An environment of mistrust and disrespect has been established for this year. Only time will bring confidence and stability back to the board.
To my friends on the board, watch your back just in case you know what hits the fan.
Good luck on the board
There was tension in the air before the meeting started. Maristar, USA!USA!USA, jackdaw, and others who cried "UNFAIR and CORRUPTION" were all huddled way back in the corner, ready to strike...
It appears all board members were present. Lined from end to end of the stage ready to present and answer questions. An estimated 200+ people attended. 7:00pm approached and the meeting began. Here we go...
The President (who doesn't seem very intimidating) welcomed the members and a VP started the presentation. Very clear, very detailed, with no smoke, mirrors, or tricks. Many topics were covered: gambling, development, later start time, costs, dryand at the total hockey, tryouts, coaches, fundraising, volunteering, etc. Lots of good info. All in the open, nothing to hide, eager to answer questions if necessary.
Then came the guy named Gus, the paid development person. Much different story than what was posted here in the last few days. He deserves an apology. He gave a detailed outline of his intent and what players, coaches, and parents should expect from him. Players will get better coaching, more opportunity to play in games, and a development group who is looking out for them. At the end of this presentation, A ROUND OF APPLAUSE from the members! Yes, APPLAUSE! No booing, thrown tomatoes, or shots fired from the balcony. The members are excited their kids are finally going to have equal playing time and opportunity to succeed! Youth hockey is about more than just the A team! Hooray!
The meeting continued, good information, detailed information! They are working with the high school coaches, getting them involved. Prior board leaders shunned the high school coaches, tried to shut them out. Now LHA has continuity to the HS programs! Good stuff for the community and building pride in working hard to reach the high school hockey teams.
The board individually introduced themselves. They appear better organized for this program than I have seen in the 10+ years I have had kids playing in LHA. Looking forward to good things to come.
All who presented repeatedly provided their contact info encouraging every member to call, email, attend meetings if they are concerned or have questions. The VP presenter called the LHA "User Friendly". I believe it now, but could never have in the past. These guys and gals are sincere, you could see it in their faces and willingness to present their part when needed. Various members shared their areas of expertise on the board when called upon. No-one hoarded the microphone, no-one micro-managed, no-one dictating the way as you were led to believe by the people who started the previous rant on this forum.
Finally came the time for questions. Any question, please ask!... Silence... One hand goes up. Question 1, in regards to tryout evaluators. Answered. Question 2, explain the late start again please. Answered. Question 3. What forms do I need to fill out? Answered. Question 4. When do tryouts start. Answered. Question 5. Something about clinics. Answered... Any more questions? Anyone? OK, if you would prefer coming up afterward to ask questions, please do, they will wait until everyone is gone. As I watched I saw a few going up, but they left with a smile, or a handshake.
As expected, the group in the way back corner slithered out, deflated. Their mission didn't succeed this time... Great poetry, legal research, days of creating multiple monikers, twisting words, creating false scenarios, and even calling out board member names. Back to work fellas. Next board meeting is the 2nd Wednesday of the month. I am sure they would like to see you there and listen to your needs!
Respectfully,
Excited LHA Parent
(enjoying the extra month with my family without hockey!)
9999…Last night was great! Everyone was hugging, giving out high fives, shaking hands, and slapping backs. It reminds me of Jim Thome when he hits the game winning homerun. Wow! But after all is said, the fact still stands; there are a few board members that have over stepped their authority.
It has nothing to do with ice hours, start times, tryouts, high school coaches, development, etc. It has to do with a board member or two, or even more that have developed their own set of rules (not following the association by laws). By doing this, they have created a new set of standards that have truly damaged the basic principle of representation and accountability among all board members. An environment of mistrust and disrespect has been established for this year. Only time will bring confidence and stability back to the board.
To my friends on the board, watch your back just in case you know what hits the fan.
Good luck on the board
why be on the association board
every gets the fact the parents go on the board so that there kid can play for the team they want them to. so join the board and quit complaining
why be on the association board
every gets the fact the parents go on the board so that there kid can play for the team they want them to. so join the board and quit complaining
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#1hockeyphan
- Posts: 3
- Joined: Thu Sep 30, 2010 12:36 pm
Re: Lakeville Hockey Is Playing by the Rules and MORE
Looks like maristar may have accomplished what he set out to do. congrats.
Checks and balances are important, and it seems in this case this forum may have been exactly the vehicle to accomplish that.
If maistars post brought out that many members to a board meeting and resulted in this type of transparancy, then maybe more folks should use this forum for similar results.
Good for maristar and good for Lakeville.
Always nicer to see a happy ending.
Roses are Red
Violets are Blue
Hats off to maristar
if what's written is true[/quote]
GREAT JOB LHA BOARD!!!!
If Maristar had been on stage I'd give him credit but the credit belongs to this board and them alone. We were promised a coup, takeover, oust of the President, yet decorum ruled the night as the VP reigned over the meeting with confidence, clarity and he obviously knew his stuff! How cool to see the whole board (twenty plus strong) on stage sending a unified message to our members?
The first person on this chain estimates there were 200 people there last night. With 500 traveling families that means there are approximately 1000 parents who could have attended. That means there were about 20% of the parents in our association there - let's face it most of them were probably squirt parents out for the first time. That's not a major coup of the poetry writers on this forum.....but if maristar and USA! think it is, please don't organize people for the next board meeting. From the sound of things last night, this board members wants MORE questions, MORE participation, not less!
One addendum to what I posted yesterday. Rucki IS a signer on the LHA checking account and BM (hmm, appropriate name for our past president!) was not and he should have been. The past treasurer should have had two signatures on every check sent out - a standard accounting practice and one any auditor would recommend. For the record, Tim Shaw, past president and out of our association for 3-4 years was the other signer on our bank account until the new treasurer checked with the bank and got it switched - in other words, doing her job!
And while I am flattered you think I am the President of the LHA (ha!), I have not, nor will I ever be a voting member of the Lakeville Hockey Association. Just a parent with a lot of experience with seeking out information, demanding to see paperwork, helping when asked, attending meetings, and not afraid to ask board members (old and new) some tough questions. This is something everyone can, and should, do to look out for the best interests of their child - not themselves or their own ego. I know how to do a lot of this because I have been a board member for other youth sports organizations and I've been on the receiving end of people who are misinformed and spreading their venom.
A big THANK YOU to the LHA board for a well-run, very professional meeting last night. Sanity has returned to youth hockey in Lakeville after ten+ years!!
Checks and balances are important, and it seems in this case this forum may have been exactly the vehicle to accomplish that.
If maistars post brought out that many members to a board meeting and resulted in this type of transparancy, then maybe more folks should use this forum for similar results.
Good for maristar and good for Lakeville.
Always nicer to see a happy ending.
Roses are Red
Violets are Blue
Hats off to maristar
if what's written is true[/quote]
GREAT JOB LHA BOARD!!!!
If Maristar had been on stage I'd give him credit but the credit belongs to this board and them alone. We were promised a coup, takeover, oust of the President, yet decorum ruled the night as the VP reigned over the meeting with confidence, clarity and he obviously knew his stuff! How cool to see the whole board (twenty plus strong) on stage sending a unified message to our members?
The first person on this chain estimates there were 200 people there last night. With 500 traveling families that means there are approximately 1000 parents who could have attended. That means there were about 20% of the parents in our association there - let's face it most of them were probably squirt parents out for the first time. That's not a major coup of the poetry writers on this forum.....but if maristar and USA! think it is, please don't organize people for the next board meeting. From the sound of things last night, this board members wants MORE questions, MORE participation, not less!
One addendum to what I posted yesterday. Rucki IS a signer on the LHA checking account and BM (hmm, appropriate name for our past president!) was not and he should have been. The past treasurer should have had two signatures on every check sent out - a standard accounting practice and one any auditor would recommend. For the record, Tim Shaw, past president and out of our association for 3-4 years was the other signer on our bank account until the new treasurer checked with the bank and got it switched - in other words, doing her job!
And while I am flattered you think I am the President of the LHA (ha!), I have not, nor will I ever be a voting member of the Lakeville Hockey Association. Just a parent with a lot of experience with seeking out information, demanding to see paperwork, helping when asked, attending meetings, and not afraid to ask board members (old and new) some tough questions. This is something everyone can, and should, do to look out for the best interests of their child - not themselves or their own ego. I know how to do a lot of this because I have been a board member for other youth sports organizations and I've been on the receiving end of people who are misinformed and spreading their venom.
A big THANK YOU to the LHA board for a well-run, very professional meeting last night. Sanity has returned to youth hockey in Lakeville after ten+ years!!
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USA! USA! USA!
- Posts: 31
- Joined: Wed Sep 29, 2010 10:23 pm
"I have not, nor will I ever be a voting member of the Lakeville Hockey Association."
hhmm... you sure know a lot about who can sign checks for simply being an interested parent. Or is the key word "voting" ?? might you also have a husband on the board that is R's good friend???
Objecitivity is relative I guess.
Are you sure maristar was slinking around in the back?? If that is as accurate as your assessment of some of the board behavior I can see where the problems begin.
The questions still are not answered - despite the confident "stage presence". Answer the questions in the next newsletter. Not the rhetoric or finger pointing or "blogger sightings" ha...just answer the questions.
I do agree that very few veteran hockey parents were at that meeting. It was not the place or time to raise the issues.
Silence does not equal accpetance.
Glad you are enjoying your month with no hockey. Most of my LHA pals and our kids aren't having a month of no hockey - we are bringing our kids to clinics (not Gus's) and srimmages to stay in shape for the season after our AAA seasons have ended. No complaints - we enjoy eachother's company and the kids are having fun. The assumption that one of the benefits of a late start means no hockey/no hockey expense isn't the reality for a huge percentage of players and their families. Enjoy though.
There are many, many good things about LHA - including past and present board members and their efforts. There are just a few major exceptions. Let's hope their actions don't cause LHA to suffer financial or legal damages.
skate on.
hhmm... you sure know a lot about who can sign checks for simply being an interested parent. Or is the key word "voting" ?? might you also have a husband on the board that is R's good friend???
Objecitivity is relative I guess.
Are you sure maristar was slinking around in the back?? If that is as accurate as your assessment of some of the board behavior I can see where the problems begin.
The questions still are not answered - despite the confident "stage presence". Answer the questions in the next newsletter. Not the rhetoric or finger pointing or "blogger sightings" ha...just answer the questions.
I do agree that very few veteran hockey parents were at that meeting. It was not the place or time to raise the issues.
Silence does not equal accpetance.
Glad you are enjoying your month with no hockey. Most of my LHA pals and our kids aren't having a month of no hockey - we are bringing our kids to clinics (not Gus's) and srimmages to stay in shape for the season after our AAA seasons have ended. No complaints - we enjoy eachother's company and the kids are having fun. The assumption that one of the benefits of a late start means no hockey/no hockey expense isn't the reality for a huge percentage of players and their families. Enjoy though.
There are many, many good things about LHA - including past and present board members and their efforts. There are just a few major exceptions. Let's hope their actions don't cause LHA to suffer financial or legal damages.
skate on.
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hockeyparent9999
- Posts: 4
- Joined: Thu Sep 30, 2010 5:14 pm
I would say the crowd was a even mix of squirt through bantam parents. I believe peewee parents may have had the edge on numbers. And although maybe only 200+ people attended, that is very large in comparison to attendance levels I have seen in the many years we have been in the LHA hockey program.
hockrox...
So you must have attended as well since you didn't spot maristar (or did you? hmmm. Maybe in the mirror?) :) Not serious there, I have no idea who you are and am not attacking you, just having fun. Lets just say that there were some of the original forum posters there, in their multi-moniker state. They wanted someone to become irate with the incorrect details provided on the forum and charge the stage demanding the head of the President and his cult-like following of brainwashed board members. (I am kidding again...) They had all the guts behind their barrier here on the forum, but just couldn't risk being embarrassed in front of people they have to see for the entire winter with some potentially weak and likely false accusations.
One question hockrox... You were there, you had full opportunity to ask any question, no time limit, and every person you would want an answer from. The moment existed to fully expose whoever you don't trust on the board, one-by-one. Why now do you demand the answers get published in a newsletter? The meeting agenda was complete, and they asked for ANY question or concern to be addressed. How could that have not been the perfect forum for your questions? What would be a good forum?
Enjoy the next 4 weeks LHA members before you have to move into Ames & Hasse for 4 or 5 straight months. I am sensing it will be a good season for all!
hockrox...
So you must have attended as well since you didn't spot maristar (or did you? hmmm. Maybe in the mirror?) :) Not serious there, I have no idea who you are and am not attacking you, just having fun. Lets just say that there were some of the original forum posters there, in their multi-moniker state. They wanted someone to become irate with the incorrect details provided on the forum and charge the stage demanding the head of the President and his cult-like following of brainwashed board members. (I am kidding again...) They had all the guts behind their barrier here on the forum, but just couldn't risk being embarrassed in front of people they have to see for the entire winter with some potentially weak and likely false accusations.
One question hockrox... You were there, you had full opportunity to ask any question, no time limit, and every person you would want an answer from. The moment existed to fully expose whoever you don't trust on the board, one-by-one. Why now do you demand the answers get published in a newsletter? The meeting agenda was complete, and they asked for ANY question or concern to be addressed. How could that have not been the perfect forum for your questions? What would be a good forum?
Enjoy the next 4 weeks LHA members before you have to move into Ames & Hasse for 4 or 5 straight months. I am sensing it will be a good season for all!
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#1hockeyphan
- Posts: 3
- Joined: Thu Sep 30, 2010 12:36 pm
might you also have a husband on the board that is R's good friend??? I don't think that is legally possible - at this time anyway!
Are you sure maristar was slinking around in the back??
no idea and I don't care.......I didn't make the comment about him
name calling? No, it was just an observation. But why does everyone post anonymously? They just want to bash others, start rumors and hide behind a clever moniker. We are all guilty of this. What's sad is others take everything as the truth - I just did a little investigative work for my answers and I would invite others to do the same.
Glad you are enjoying your month with no hockey.
again, not my comment - and it's funny people are worried about starting late as most kids are still playing year-round. Having a kid who's been through the system and one coming up you see how it's easy to not get so absorbed with more, more, more and let your kids have a balanced life that is not all hockey.
There are many, many good things about LHA - including past and present board members and their efforts.
Good acknowledgement - I agree![/b]
Are you sure maristar was slinking around in the back??
no idea and I don't care.......I didn't make the comment about him
name calling? No, it was just an observation. But why does everyone post anonymously? They just want to bash others, start rumors and hide behind a clever moniker. We are all guilty of this. What's sad is others take everything as the truth - I just did a little investigative work for my answers and I would invite others to do the same.
Glad you are enjoying your month with no hockey.
again, not my comment - and it's funny people are worried about starting late as most kids are still playing year-round. Having a kid who's been through the system and one coming up you see how it's easy to not get so absorbed with more, more, more and let your kids have a balanced life that is not all hockey.
There are many, many good things about LHA - including past and present board members and their efforts.
Good acknowledgement - I agree![/b]