DEAR EDITOR:
After reading the article on the Orchard Valley Soccer League, I
find myself needing to respond to some of the statements made by
President Jack Salvemini.
DEAR EDITOR:
After reading the article on the Orchard Valley Soccer League, I find myself needing to respond to some of the statements made by President Jack Salvemini.
He states, “I think it comes down to a personal vendetta against me …”
I would encourage Salvemini to read our mission statement. It says we want to “establish a fair and democratic youth soccer league in Morgan Hill, San Martin and Gilroy that actively solicits the input of its registered families and coaches.” This is not a personal attack. Our mission is very clear and anyone who has read our statement, or talked with us, knows quite clearly that this is about making OVYSL better.
As a OVYSL Board member the past two years, I have been a part of several board actions that resulted in people being kicked out of the league. I am bothered that we seemed to spend so much time pushing good people in our community out of the league.
Since being ousted from the OVYSL Board myself, I can honestly state that there needs to be change in the way the Board is appointed. Having different ideas and opinions is what makes can make a good Board even better. In today’s OVYSL, if your opinion differs from the president’s position, you better be prepared to hear that your volunteer services will no longer be required.
Salvemini also states “all coaches agree to adhere to OVYSL rules when they sign on, and are welcome to leave if they disagree with them (OVYSL Board)”. That statement is what we are trying to change. I believe a democratically elected Board would allow coaches to disagree with Board actions without the fear of repercussions.
Finally, Salvemini claims to have conducted a survey of coaches and determined that the majority support the current Board and its actions. Having spoken to some coaches, I believe he is referring to short statement that each coach was asked to sign prior to picking up the roster and player passes required for competitive play earlier this month. The form did not ask the coaches if they would like to vote for board members. The form did not ask if they support changes in the league bylaws. The form did not ask for ideas to improve the league. Instead, the coaches were asked to sign a blanket statement of support for the OVYSL Board. That is not a survey. That is not an honest attempt to get input. That type of action is part of what we hope to change by building a representative league built on democratic principles.
Jill Riolo, Former OVYSL Board Member
Submitted Wednesday, July 21
