Olympic Development Program News

Membership Updates: COVID-19 | April 14, 2020

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To: All members and affiliates

From: Rusty Wightman, President

CC: Board of Directors and Staff

RE: Membership Update

I hope this message finds you well and you are able to find solace with family and friends.  Our gratitude goes out to you all for your cooperation and understanding during these uncertain and trying times. Only by working together, following the guidelines set by local, state and national leaders, can we stop the spread and give our essential workers the rest they deserve and our players, coaches, fans, and referees the game they are longing for. Please know, as it relates to the game of soccer, the executive board and staff at New Hampshire Soccer has been, and will continue to, monitor and evaluate the situation on a constant basis.

At a  board meeting on Monday, April 13, a vote was held and a decision made to further suspend all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities statewide through May 31, 2020 due to the evolving COVID-19 situation. For our member organizations (towns, clubs and leagues) this includes, but is not limited to: all games, practices, clinics, training, tournaments, and in-person meetings. It is imperative that we all follow recommendations and mandates from the CDC, local and federal officials, USYS and US Soccer to help stop the spread the Corona Virus. New Hampshire Soccer will evaluate conditions on a continuing basis to determine when it is appropriate to reinstate our affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities. Further communications will be provided via email and on our website.

We realize this impacts many programs throughout the state. We continue to update our contingency plans as it relates to The New Hampshire Soccer League, The ODP program, our coaching education courses, referee recertification and grassroots courses, and all other programs and events scheduled. We know there are a lot of questions, we are working through the problems as they arise and trying to adjust and make the best of a situation that is constantly changing.

“You face adversity all the time. I accept what lies ahead and then I do my best. You can’t take things too seriously, and you can’t use things as an excuse or you’ll never get through.”

~Kristine Lilly

Thanks for all you do,

Rusty Wightman

President

New Hampshire Soccer Association

Membership Updates: COVID-19 | March 24, 2020

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To: All members and affiliates

From: Rusty Wightman, President

CC: Board of Directors and Staff

RE: Membership Update

I hope all are getting through these uncertain times knowing that we WILL be out on the pitch again and we WILL beat this virus, TOGETHER .

In times like this I find it enlightening and invigorating witnessing people working together, for the common good of all. It is too easy to get caught up in the negative impact on our daily lives, but everywhere around us is love and compassion, giving and sharing, and the sense that when this is over we will be stronger. I know you all join me in lifting up all those that put themselves in harms way to serve those in need. In times of war we lift up our military soldiers, but we now have a different type of soldier serving us today. Our gratitude goes out to all nurses, doctors and medical staff. All the police, fire and emergency workers, the groceries, markets and gas stations that provide essential food, goods and some sense of “normal in our daily lives. Countless others, too many to mention. New Hampshire Soccer thanks you all for your sacrifice to help us through this challenging times.

I also need to thank my colleagues through out US Soccer, US Youth Soccer, US Adult Soccer and most of all the board and staff at NHSA. With the news and information changing by the second, we have all dedicated our time to making the best informed decisions possible as it relates to our beautiful game, while dealing with our own personal lives and issues.

At a special Executive Board meeting on Monday March 23, we decided to further suspend all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities statewide through April 26, 2020 due to the evolving COVID-19 situation. For our member organizations (towns, clubs and leagues) this includes, but is not limited to: all games, practices, clinics, training, tournaments, and in-person meetings. It is imperative that we all follow recommendations and mandates from the CDC, local and federal officials, USYS and US Soccer to help stop the spread the Corona Virus. New Hampshire Soccer will evaluate conditions on a continuing basis to determine when it is appropriate to reinstate our affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities. Further communications will be provided via email and on our website. We will also be postponing the New Hampshire Day at the Revs event scheduled for June 6 until such time that a schedule can be redefined by the MLS. Then we will determine the safest time to bring us all together, when this is over we will have a reason to celebrate and you can be sure we will go all out on this one!

We realize this impacts many programs through out the state. We are currently working on contingency plans as it relates to The New Hampshire Soccer League, The ODP program, our coaching education courses, referee recertification and grass roots courses, and all other programs and events scheduled. We know there are a lot of questions, we are working through the problems as they arise and trying to adjust and make the best of a situation that is constantly changing.

Thanks for all you do,

Rusty Wightman

President

New Hampshire Soccer Association

soccernh.org

Virtual Laws of the Game Learning Opportunity for Coaches

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NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE REFEREE COMMITTEE

The New Hampshire State Referee is offering virtual “in-person” classes online through Zoom at designated dates and times. While these were designed for referee recertification, they focus solely on the significant changes to the laws of the game for this year. With the cancellation of in-person classes we want to invite coaches to attend as well so everyone is the New Hampshire soccer community has an opportunity to receive the same information. This will offer you an opportunity to still see the presentation, hear explanations for the law changes, and interact with an instructor to answer any questions you may have. Virtual sessions will be offered on the following dates and times:

  • Monday March 30 @ 7PM
  • Sunday April 5 @ 8AM
  • Tuesday April 14 @ 7PM
  • Saturday April 18 @ 8AM

To sign up for one of these sessions, please complete this form:

Virtual LOTG Learning Session Sign-up

We appreciation your flexibility, understanding and patience as we manage this situation to find solutions that work for both US Soccer requirements, the good of the game, and the health and safety of all involved. In dealing with this situation, we strongly recommend that you follow the advice, direction and guidance of your local health department. For more information on the current status across the country and measures you can take, go to:

Regards,

New Hampshire State Referee Committee

Referee@nhreferee.org

NHSA Statement to Membership – Re: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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To: All members and affiliates

From: Rusty Wightman, President

CC: Board of directors and staff

RE: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – UPDATE: March 13, 2020 | 10:45 PM

Effective immediately, New Hampshire Soccer Association is suspending all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities statewide through April 12, 2020 due to the evolving COVID-19 situation.   For our member organizations (towns, clubs and leagues) this includes, but is not limited to: all games, practices, clinics, training, tournaments, and in-person meetings.

Trusting that players, coaches, referees and spectators would never knowingly compromise themselves or others, the fact is that our sport and its related activities provide an opportunity for the virus to spread which we feel is our duty to help avoid (excerpt from the CDC below):

  “…COVID-19 is mainly spread through respiratory droplets (sneeze, cough, or sweat) when in close contact (within 6 feet) OR by touching a surface with such droplets and then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes…”

As a result, both US Soccer and US Youth Soccer have made a similar decision regarding soccer activities under their purview.  They asked the state associations to assess the risks and benefits of postponement, suspension and/or cancellation of upcoming events and New Hampshire Soccer – along with many other state associations – has taken this guidance, as well as information from public health and medical professionals at the federal, state and local levels with the highest level of concern.  Our decision to suspend soccer-related activities and promote social distancing was not made lightly.  But, in the interest of making the health and safety of the entire soccer community, in addition to all others statewide, paramount, we know this is the right step to take.  

New Hampshire Soccer will evaluate conditions on a continuing basis to determine when it is appropriate to reinstate our affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities.  Further communications will be provided via email and on our website.  

US Soccer has suspended all Coaching Education Courses and Referee Courses until after April 30th. We are currently trying to work on a solution to offer a portion of these courses on line. Look for communications from our Director of Coaching and State Referee Administrator.

Additionally, here are a number of different resources and communications from the CDC and other organizations regarding the Coronavirus:  

We cannot emphasize enough that New Hampshire Soccer’s primary commitment at all times is the health and safety of all members, players, coaches, referees, parents, spectators and volunteers.

Proper Health Habits:

In the meantime, while we all help protect ourselves is it important to reinforce health safety and best practices for illness prevention, please read the list below:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth prior to proper washing or disinfecting.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a face mask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including Coronavirus.
  • CDC recommended face masks should be used by people who show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Thank you for your understanding.

-New Hampshire Soccer Association

NEW HAMPSHIRE SOCCER NEWS RELEASE: COVID-19

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To:  All members and affiliates

From:  Rusty Wightman, President

CC:  Board of Directors and Staff

RE: Coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) Advisory Memo

As new developments arise each day, I want to insure all understand that first and foremost, the safety of our players, coaches, referees and fans is our primary responsibility. The NHSA and US Soccer are monitoring the situation and seeking advice and recommendations from all resources available including local, state and federal agencies.

Based on the current information and facts, it is recommended that everyone be familiar with the best practices and protocols set forth by the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Several events across the country have been canceled or postponed, however we feel at this time, all soccer in the granite state can go on as scheduled. With that said, please be respectful of individual or organizational decisions. Please be mindful of the facilities and venues we play in, especially schools and decisions they need to make regarding usage. If you are traveling out of state, please be aware of the situation at your destination and follow traveling recommendations ( CDC link below)

US Soccer has put forth the following information:

Best Practices for Health
There is currently no vaccine to prevent the Coronavirus. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed. Everyday preventive actions should be taken:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
  • Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including Coronavirus.
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Additionally, here are a number of different resources and communications from the CDC regarding the Coronavirus:

If the NHSA can assist or help guide your organization through this period, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and support, together we will get through this !

Sincerely,

Rusty Wightman

President, New Hampshire Soccer Association

New Hampshire Soccer Association renews GotSoccer partnership for another 5 years

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New Hampshire Soccer Association renews GotSoccer partnership for another 5 years

New Hampshire Soccer Association has strengthened their relationship with GotSoccer, signing a new five year contract and moving the registration and State Cup tournament to the GotSport platform.

“NHSA has had a great partnership with GotSoccer for 10 years,” said State Administrator Ann Fichera.  “Over those years we have been so happy with the progress GotSoccer has made to continue investing in their software, provide support, education and overall changes that are needed.”We are excited to be moving forward with our partnership with GotSoccer and be able to offer our Member clubs and facilities the opportunity  to use the new GotSport program,” Fichera added. 

An excited GotSoccer CEO Gavin Owen-Thomas was delighted with the contract  renewal. “Since we launched GotSoccer we’ve had an amazing 98% client retention rate and for NHSA to put their trust in us for 5 more years makes me very proud.

“This agreement furthers our goal to partner with all state soccer associations in providing the best and most advanced analytics and sports management system on the market to benefit all players.”NHSA members will have the benefit of GotSport’s:Simplified tools to manage all their roles and duties from within a single accountMobile responsive system to easily perform all their tasks whenever, wherever Simple and secure paymentsand so much more!For more information CLICK HERE.

To arrange a demonstration contact Dave Buchanan, GotSport’s head of state management software at (203) 752-7324. 

Since 2003, GotSoccer has an amazing 98% Client Retention Rate.
29 USYS State Associations now utilize Gotsport’s registration platform, and 36 use GotSoccer for their State Cup!

NEW APPOINTMENTS TO THE NHSA EXECUTIVE BOARD!

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Greetings NH Soccer Community,

I hope all is going well with your fall seasons. I am delighted at the opportunity to go out on weeknights and weekends and see so many happy and smiling faces kicking a ball around, whether its high school, club league play, or one of the many grass roots and recreational leagues in our state, much of my time is spent watching and coaching this beautiful game that our kids enjoy. 

The same can be said about the other side of the game. Although very challenging, I do enjoy my role as President of the State Association because of the connections that are made with so many that give so much. The passion we have for the game can only be amplified by our passion for the kids.  New Hampshire is full of coaches, referees, administrators, volunteers and parents that sacrifice so much of their time to have a positive impact on the life of a child. Thank you and it is a pleasure working alongside you. 

  Since the NHSA AGM and elections last March, myself and the NHSA board have been seeking to fill two seats on our executive board. There were many meetings and discussions and I thank those that have expressed interest. I am very happy to announce to you today that these two seats have been appointed by myself and approved by the NHSA executive board. Both have the passion aforementioned and both have the experience to bring NH forward and help define, develop and employ our vision for the future.

Executive Vice President- Trevor Fox

I had the pleasure of meeting Trevor several years ago during a coach’s course. He grew up playing soccer in Vermont and developed from a young grassroots player to the captain of his successful college team. Trevor continued to play as an adult and got involved with coaching through his high school alma mater in Proctor VT before moving to NH in 1993. He continued to play as an adult until taking a new position at work which included regular travel on the east coast. 

Trevor returned to being involved in soccer in the early 2000’s when he and his wife had children and began coaching again in the Goffstown area. Trevor coached recreational soccer as well as competitive soccer for Tri Town and later became the Director of Coaching for Goffstown United (formerly Tri-Town Travel). When he heard there was a need for referees in NH, he took the referee course and got certified in order to meet the demand of qualified officials.

Trevor is employed by a facilities management company as a Regional Director and has been a part of the company for over 20 years. He continues to reside in Goffstown, NH with his wife Sheryl, daughter Kaitlyn and dog Milo. Trevor and Sheryl also have a son attending SNHU. Among Trevor’s responsibilities are to oversee the State Registrar, the State ODP Director and the State Director of Coaching. He will also oversee operations at the New Hampshire Soccer Complex in Pembroke.

Vice President of Recreation- Jim O’Connell

I  had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Jim at a Center City soccer event in Manchester. Through our conversation it was apparent Jim had a love for the game and a love of community and it’s youth. Jim’s bio is long, he had served on the board of Manchester North Soccer League for 10+ years (president for three of those years), he was  Director of British are Coming Soccer Camps for 10+ years, a board member on Manchester Little League, a youth pastor at St. Elizabeth  Seton, Bedford and has been CEO and senior management at a number of start up companies. Jim is currently a Community Planning Group member at Manchester Proud, a host on Education Matters, and serves St. Joseph’s Cathedral as lector and Docent. He is also running for a seat on the Manchester School Board.

I  had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Jim at a Center City soccer event in Manchester. Through our conversation it was apparent Jim had a love for the game and a love of community and it’s youth. Jim’s bio is long, he had served on the board of Manchester North Soccer League for 10+ years (president for three of those years), he was  Director of British are Coming Soccer Camps for 10+ years, a board member on Manchester Little League, a youth pastor at St. Elizabeth  Seton, Bedford and has been CEO and senior management at a number of start up companies. Jim is currently a Community Planning Group member at Manchester Proud, a host on Education Matters, and serves St. Joseph’s Cathedral as lector and Docent. He is also running for a seat on the Manchester School Board.

Please help me in welcoming Trevor and Jim to the team!