We all worked long and hard--and with excitement--for the Sky Blue Summit meeting of soccer club presidents which was held Wednesday evening at the Marriott in Bridgewater. So imagine our satisfaction when a full room of passionate fellow soccer people accepted our invitation. The evening's script featured inspirational videos and speeches by Head Coach and GM Ian Sawyers, CEO Thomas Hofstetter, Julie Foudy and Heather O'Reilly. What was notable about their brief comments was each of their personal stories, and how their involvement in soccer created their devotion to both working in and playing "the beautiful game."
An entire array of Sky Blue programs was debuted. A CD of the presentation was given to all participants. We knew the event was a success by the immediate offers of support and desire to become concretely involved with us. Our offer to them is the same we make to all of you: become Affiliates of Sky Blue. Let us tell you how, if you want to know. Just pick up the phone, or email, and we will be glad to have a discussion with you on how you can become a part of our team.
This leads me to the central theme of the evening. If you are reading this, by definition you are interested in Sky Blue, WPS, and women's soccer in general. I am personally asking you to consider making a gesture of support for our cause, by investing in a ticket purchase. I know it is early; I know there are questions you might have. But do this for the reason some of our ticket buyers have already expressed: simply to say, and to show: I'm with you; I believe in you; I will step up and support you.
You could feel the energy in the room at the Summit following the speeches. Trust me, you would have plunked down your ticket payment right then and there. Thomas made us understand how he and Francesco Prandoni have invested in Sky Blue with the love of their European roots in the game; Julie told us what it was like for herself as a young girl, with only male athletes to emulate, and how the league will mean so much to little girls who can look toward women athletes; Heather is happy to be home in New Jersey, and to play and work hard to promote her new team.
Perhaps Ian expressed it best when he said: This game has given Julie and me so much. Now, we want to give back. (And they moved to to New Jersey from California to prove it).
So, for everything the game gives you--your players, your family, your coaches--give back. Invest in us. Tickets are only a phone call, or an email click, away.
Yours in Soccer,
SBS Blogger
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