March 15 -- The BRYC spring 2012 pre- season coaches meeting tonight at Kings Glen ES saw a rousing turnout of BRYC volunteers including the EXCOM, League Directors, and, most especially, coaches!  After welcoming remarks from Commisioner David Knight, emphasizing goal safety; from BRYC President Charles Osborn (noting his BRYC beginning as a recreational soccer coach); and a presentation from our new DC United representative Mikael Tigrett, the meeting got down to business with reports from various members on the Executive Committee. 

Co-Training Coordinator Joan Smith reported that the league will be trying a few exciting new things this season.  (Coaches can soon go to the "Coaches Corner" page for complete details.)  Fields Coordinator Trish Moxie humorously reported that field assignments are as tight as ever this season.  (We’ve lost Kings Park ES due to construction.).  Ralph Schuetz noted that All Stars is advancing the calendar to give all BRYC kids and coaches an extra opportunity for scrimmaging prior to team selection and then Sunday practices starting after regular season week five.   Referee Director John Davis emphasized the point that coaches are responsible for not just their own conduct but that of their players and parents...noting that they are always to be the "adults" on the field.  Uniforms Coordinator Kim Thomas noted a few hiccups in the process but had most of them there for the coaches to give to the players who ordered them..and the rest would be ready before the season starts.  And former Rec Soccer Commissioner Mac Squires gave a well-received presentation on player protection, safety, sportsmanship, and risk management.

The meeting ended with coaches actually receiving their rosters, equipment, jerseys, and practice field assignments.  Registered players should expect to hear from their coaches in the next week or so, with BRYC’s regular practice fields (or, in some cases, temporary fields through the end of March) available for practices beginning as early as Monday, March 19.  The first games of the season will be on Saturday, March 31.