Fwd: PTSA Gear for the Holidays

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Dec 8, 2006 9:01 PM
Subject: PTSA Gear for the Holidays

Commissioners,

 

Manny Politis has asked that I send you the attached PTSA Spirit Wear order form with a plea that you forward it on to your coaches with your own plea that they forward to parents and players.  Please do so now so PTSA Members can start ordering their Spirit Wear to be delivered in time for the coming Holiday Season!  You may want to cut and paste the message below in your own message to Coaches.

 

Thanks.

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

 

Members of the Peters Township Soccer Association

 

Show your true colors on the soccer field touchlines.

 

 As long as your true colors are RED, we are offering a

wonderful holiday gift idea: PTSA Spirit Wear. 

 

Hats, Hoodies, Sweat Shirts, Polo Shirts, T-Shirts, and more.

 

When the players look over to the touchlines they

will see an entire sea of Red fans cheering for them.

 

Complete and mail in the attached form and our

fundraising partner will ship your order directly to you.

 

PTSA will receive 20% of your spend amount on each

order which helps offset its operating expenses.

 

Thank you for supporting the Peters Township Soccer Association, a volunteer based sports organization that trains 1,200 soccer players, serves 120 soccer teams, provides thousands more soccer enthusiastic parents, siblings and friends a venue to observe their youth enjoy participating in the most popular sport in the world, and employs 100 youth referees from Peters Township 

 

 

Fwd: PTSA Survey

Please fill out and return the survey (to pmchiste@hotmail.com) to help assess the quality of the PTSA. Thanks.

--Tony

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Dec 7, 2006 8:59 PM
Subject: PTSA Survey

Commissioners,

 

Attached is the PTSA Survey ... please forward the survey to all Coaches with a request they forward to players' parents for completion and return to my attention no later than January 31, 2007.  The Survey form will also appear in the next edition of Soccer Shorts and on the PTSA website.

 

Thanks.

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

Fw: 2006 MLS Cup

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Nov 11, 2006 9:03 AM
Subject: Fw: 2006 MLS Cup

Commssioners,

 

Please forward to your coaches tonight.

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

----- Original Message -----

From: US Youth Soccer

To: pmchiste@hotmail.com

Sent: Thursday, November 09, 2006 1:40 PM

Subject: 2006 MLS Cup

©2006 MLS™. All Rights Reserved.

--------------------------------------
To Unsubscribe, please click here.

Fwd: PTSA Gear for the Holidays

U8 Coaches:

Here are some great gift ideas for the holiday season. Please pass along to your player families.

Members of the Peters Township Soccer Association

 

Show your true colors on the soccer field touchlines.

 

 As long as your true colors are RED, we are offering a

wonderful holiday gift idea: PTSA Spirit Wear. 

 

Hats, Hoodies, Sweat Shirts, Polo Shirts, T-Shirts, and more.

 

When the players look over to the touchlines they

will see an entire sea of Red fans cheering for them.

 

Complete and mail in the attached form and our

fundraising partner will ship your order directly to you.

 

PTSA will receive 20% of your spend amount on each

order which helps offset its operating expenses.

 

Thank you for supporting the Peters Township Soccer Association, a volunteer based sports organization that trains 1,200 soccer players, serves 120 soccer teams, provides thousands more soccer enthusiastic parents, siblings and friends a venue to observe their youth enjoy participating in the most popular sport in the world, and employs 100 youth referees from Peters Township 

 

 

Soccer Pictures

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: LaVigna5 <mgam4@yahoo.com>
Date: Nov 5, 2006 1:40 PM
Subject: PTSA Draft Board Minutes Oct 2

Board Members:

Soccer Photos will be available for pick up at the Rec. Center on Saturday November 11 between the hours of 10 and 2. I have reserved Lobby space for Bob Rulli. In the event that some are unable to make it, Bob Rulli will once again be "hand delivering" pictures to families. It will most likely take him at least a week to deliver all of them so the fastest and easiest way to get pictures is to stop by the Rec. Center. Please  pass this information on to your coaches. 

Thank You,
Gail

Fwd: Fw: Peters Township set to appear in WPIAL Final for 3rd time in 4 years

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Nov 3, 2006 11:32 PM
Subject: Fw: Peters Township set to appear in WPIAL Final for 3rd time in 4 years
To: Gary Lang <langhouse@adelphia.net>, Jamie Ross < ptsarossclan@yahoo.com>, Manuel Politis <mannygp@comcast.net>, Jeff Brooks <brooks122@adelphia.net>, Jim Massucci < jemptsa@hotmail.com>, Bill Harmon <Bill.harmon@ansys.com>, Maureen Nee <mtnrfn@comcast.net >, Stephen Magnotti <sgm@firepatio.com>, Tony Belfiore <abelfiore@gmail.com>, Brad Carpenter < bradcarpenter@adelphia.net>, Brad Carpenter <brad.carpenter@lehman.com>, Chuck Thilges <cj.thilges@adelphia.net>, Philip Ross < pross@adelphia.net>, Jerry Morrow <gdm5@cdc.gov>, Pat Airhart <zachan@aol.com>, Chuck Harrison < chuck.harrison@fedex.com>, Doug Smith <judydougsmith@aol.com>, Jerry Morrow <morrow04@comcast.net >, Brad Ross <ptsau8girls@hotmail.com>, Russ Rockwell <rrockwell@adelphia.net>, Paula O'Hare < Ammt66@aol.com>, Colleen Conley <collconley@adelphia.net>, Chuck Harrison <chaz787@aol.com>, Pete Chiste < pmchiste@hotmail.com>, Bill Weyers <theweyers@comcast.net>, Don Franty <dfranty@franty.com>, Gail LaVigna < mgam4@yahoo.com>, Robin Taylor <rttaylor1@yahoo.com>, Gary Lang <garylang@adelphia.net>, Jeff Crummie < jcrummie@verizon.net>

Commissioners,

 

Please forward Don's message to all coaches ... PTHS Boys Soccer is in WPIAL finals this Saturday night .....

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

----- Original Message -----

From: Donald Franty

Sent: Friday, November 03, 2006 9:14 AM

Subject: Peters Township set to appear in WPIAL Final for 3rd time in 4 years

Don't miss this game, folks!  Spread the word to all of your Peters Township contacts and Let's show up in force to support our varsity players & coaches, celebrate our community's soccer excellence and witness destiny!

Indian Pride.  I believe.

======================================================================

2006 WPIAL AAA Boys Soccer Finals Set

Peters Township Indians (19-2-1) and Bethel Park Black Hawks (16-4-1) will be kicking for WPIAL AAA gold on Super Soccer on Saturday, November 4th at 8:00pm at Elizabeth Forward High School.  While the Indians are appearing in their third championship game in 4 years, this marks Bethel Park's first appearance in the 'ship.

Bethel Park and Peters Township were supposed to play a non-section game the final week of the regular season.

"We usually play Peters every year," Bethel Park coach Tom Galietta said. "I know Rob, [Eldridge] their head coach, very well and he knows me very well and it's a good rivalry. It's nice to be playing them in the WPIAL final. We cancelled with them a couple weeks ago because we both had difficult section matches that week.

"We had Lebo and they had [Upper] St. Clair. The [tournament] committee was meeting that night, so that game would have no bearing on the playoff pairings.

"Robbie called me and said he hoped we'd see each other later in the playoffs. For it to work out this way, if you want to call this destiny, so be it."
======================================================================

Directions from the McMurray Dairy Bar to Elizabeth Forward High School:

   
1.       Bear left on to Valley Brook Rd - go 0.6 mi
2.       Turn right at Bebout Rd - go 2.9 mi    
3.       Turn left at Venetia Rd - go 1.4 mi    
4.       Continue on Rankintown Rd - go 0.5 mi  
5.       Continue on Washington Ave - go 0.7 mi 
6.       Continue on Finley-Elrama Rd/Orange Belt - go 0.4 mi
7.       Turn left at Mcchain Rd - go 91 ft     
8.       Bear right at Stone Church Rd - go 2.1 mi      
9.       Continue on Gill Hall Rd - go 0.8 mi   
10.      Turn right at Ridge Rd - go 2.3 mi     
11.      Turn right onto the PA-51 S ramp - go 0.2 mi
12.      Turn right at PA-51 - go 0.7 mi        
13.      Bear right at PA-51 S - go 0.4 mi      
14.      Bear right at Orange Belt - go 1.0 mi  
15.      Turn left at Weigles Hill Rd - go 1.2 mi       
16.      Arrive at Elizabeth Forward School District: Senior High, 1000 Weigles Hill Rd, Elizabeth, PA 15037

Click on this link for the detailed maps & directions:

http://maps.google.com/maps?sourceid=navclient&aq=elizabeth%20forward%20high%20school&ie=UTF-8&rls=GGLG,GGLG:2005-41,GGLG:en&q=elizabeth+forward+high+school&oe=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl
       

Fwd: Urgent: Field Closures

U8 Coaches:

See Pete's email below.

Peterswood Soccer Complex and Old Grasshopper fields will be closed to practices this week, but will be open (weather permitting) on the weekend on Nov 4 & 5 for any GH, U8, U11/12 games that need to be made up or are already on the regular game schedule.

--Tony

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste < pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Oct 29, 2006 8:19 PM
Subject: Urgent: Field Closures

Commissioners,

 

The heavy rains the last half of our Fall season and heavy usage at all fields has taken its toll on our field conditions.  Simply put, they are worn, muddy, spongy and sorely needing a break from use. 

 

Elm Grove & Rees.  During the past week, the PTP&R Maintenance staff strafed and strip seeded Elm Grove and Rees Park fields.  Also, PTSA volunteers spot sodded heavy use areas at Elm Grove and Rees Park this Sunday morning.  Consequently, to give those fields a good start for the Spring season, Elm Grove and Rees Park fields will be closed the remainder of the Fall season (no practices and no games). 

 

Peterswood Soccer Complex and Old Grasshopper.  Due to heavy use and sparse turf at Peterswood Soccer Complex, our adopt-a-field volunteers chose not to spot sod there as there are simply too many bare areas to cover.  PTSA expects that the PTP&R Maintenance Department and PTSA's adopt-a-field volunteers will be doing additional work on that field soon.  Consequently, Peterswood Soccer Complex and Old Grasshopper fields will be closed to practices this week, but will be open (weather permitting) on the weekend on Nov 4 & 5 for any GH, U8, U11/12 games that need to be made up or are already on the regular game schedule.  Note that all goals have been pulled to the edge of the field area at Peterswood Soccer Complex and all GH goals have been put in storage, so any rescheduled games there will require additional field setup. 

 

Rees Outfield.  A temporary U10 field has been lined on the Rees baseball outfield ... it is not to be used for practices this week, but will be available for games on Nov 4 ... any U10 coaches desiring to makeup any games on that field must contact Chuck Harrison to schedule a match which will be allocated on a first come / first served basis.

 

With the clocks being set back an hour, darkness will have prevented most convenient practice times this week even if the fields were open.  Also, with temperatures over the next week forecast to be with lows in the 30s and 40s, it is expected that most coaches, players and parents would prefer to have their seasons end this weekend.  Please request all your coaches to take the player ages and cold temperatures into consideration as they consider whether to schedule make-up games, or not.  Note that our fields were kept open for every game weekend and I believe some teams played the full 8 game schedule and most have played at least 7 games.

 

On behalf of the Field Director and field volunteers, I thank you in advance for honoring our field closures this week.  The PTSA Coaches' hotline will be updated accordingly, but please forward this message to all your coaches so we can ensure compliance.

 

Thanks.

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

Field Conditions & Last Day of Games

U8 Boys Coaches:

I know the fields are open on this last rainy day of the fall session. However, if you want, due to the weather, feel free to reschedule your game (see U8 home page for details) to next weekend (rescheduling for the week days won't work due to DST).

Also, if you play today, please use your best judgement. If the fields are very wet, and there are puddles, and player safety is an issue, then please cancel your game.

I'm leaving it up to you guys to make a good judgement call.

Thanks.

--Tony Belfiore

Fwd: Fw: field work

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Anthony Belfiore <abelfiore@gmail.com>
Date: Oct 24, 2006 3:30 PM
Subject: Fwd: Fw: field work
To:
Cc: Stephen Magnotti <wendymag@adelphia.net>, Stephen Magnotti <sgm@firepatio.com>, Pete Chiste < pmchiste@hotmail.com>

U8 Boys Coaches:

Please read and send this email to your teams. We are looking for at least one volunteer per team this Sunday the 29th from 8am-11am.

Email me and Steve Magnotti (I've cc'd him on this email) regarding your team volunteer availability.

Thanks for any help.

--Tony

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste < pmchiste@hotmail.com >
Date: Oct 23, 2006 7:02 PM
Subject: Fw: field work

Commissioners,

 

Please forward Steve's message to all your coaches with a request that each team provide 1 volunteer (coach or parent) to this effort on the morning of October 29th.  All fields really took a beating the last two weeks with all the rain we've had and some serious reformation of the turf is required now so the fields will be in reasonable shape for the Spring season.  Although we had targeted November 11th for adopt-a-field work day, Rees and Elm Grove need the spot sodding sooner than that so it has a good chance of taking before winter's cold sets in (and sod unavailability until April/May in the Spring).

 

Our volunteer effort on the fields is in keeping with our developing partnership with PTP&R on its improved maintenance of the fields which this Fall has included cutting, aeration, fertilizing, herbicide treatment and over-seeding at all fields at various times / fields during August, September and October (along with deep tine aeration at Venetia).

 

Thanks for all your efforts this Fall.  I hope to see some of you (and many of your coaches and team parents) this Sunday. 

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

----- Original Message -----

From: Stephen Magnotti

Sent: Monday, October 23, 2006 8:09 AM

Subject: field work

Board Members:

 

We will be doing some work on Rees and Elm Grove this Sunday (the 29th).  The last day that sod is available this year is Friday.  The plan is to get a couple pallets of sod and to have a group work at each field so we can be done in a couple hours.  We will start at 8:00 and be done by 11:00, assuming we have enough voulunteers.  Please let me know if you are available so we can figure out who will work at which field. 

Commissioners:    Could you contact your coaches or anyone else to see if they can help? 

This is our last chance to repair the fields from this fall's play for next spring.  Realistically, not much can be done in March prior to the spring season's start, so please volunteer if you are able.  Thanks.

Stephen Magnotti

 

Fwd: Fw: Walk for Awareness

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Oct 10, 2006 7:31 PM
Subject: Fw: Walk for Awareness

Commissioners,

 

Michele Harmel has requested that we circulate to coaches / parents the attached flyer regarding the Character Counts Annual Walk for Awareness.  This is an important awareness event regarding the fight against drug and alcohol abuse.  It would be great if some of the PTSA teams participate with players walking in their red PTSA jersey during the event.  Please pass along the flyer (attached Word file).

 

Pete Chiste
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c
pmchiste@hotmail.com

----- Original Message -----

From: Harmel, Michele M.

Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2006 4:21 PM

Subject: Walk for Awareness

Character Counts is hosting its annual Walk for Awareness event in an effort to fight drug and alcohol abuse.  I have attached a flyer with the information about the event.  Please pass the information on to everyone you can.  Sports associations please pass the information on to the coaches and ask them to pass it on to the players and parents.  We hope to see you there!

Thank you for your support!
Michele Harmel, CPRP
Parks and Recreation Director

<<Walk for Awareness flyer 06.doc>>

PTSA Board Meeting Notes 10/02/2006

Here are my U8 relevant notes from the PTSA Board Meeting from last night:

Sportsmanship Issue
There have been some issues at U8 games where kids are misbehaving during the post-game handshake. Please take some time to explain to your kids the importance of sportsmanship and what to say after the game. "Good Game", or other positive comments are acceptable. If any coach or parent witnesses negative comments or actions coming from the kids, please stop the handshake, have a few words with the kids, and then resume the handshake. Also, please make me aware of any future problems or issues.

Lost And Found
There have been many "lost" items found at the PSC (Peterswood Soccer Complex). A suggestion by the board would be to return any lost items to the Peterswood Park Recreation Center.

Adopt-A-Field
Please note this date on your calendar: November 11th, 2006. We are planning an Adopt-A-Field maintenance day. We are looking for volunteers to help repair and maintain our soccer fields for the spring season.

Fwd: practice time changes

U8 Boys Coaches:

Practice time adjustments, due to daylight hours, will start next Monday.
Please inform all of your parents.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: chuck.harrison@fedex.com <chuck.harrison@fedex.com>
Date: Sep 26, 2006 11:09 AM
Subject: practice time changes

Commissioners,

Practice times will change due to shrinking daylight hours.
Starting Monday, Oct. 2 for PSC, Rees, Rees Outfield and Grasshopper field
times will be:

old               new
4:30  5:30        4:30  5:15
5:30  6:30        5:15  6:00
6:30  7:30        6:00  6:45

for Elm Grove

old               new
4:30  6:00        4:30  5:45
6:00  7:00        5:45  7:00

Please distribute this to your coaches, any questions, reply back.

thank you

Chuck Harrison
IT - FedEx Ground
1000 FedEx Dr.
Moon Township, PA 15108
(412) 859-5390

Fwd: Another Field Issue

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Sep 21, 2006 8:37 PM
Subject: Another Field Issue

Commissioners,

 

Michele Harmel (Peters Township Parks & Recreation Director) contacted me today to let me know that she was informed that a PTSA soccer team or teams have used the baseball outfield and infield at Elm Grove Park for soccer practice.  By asking around, I have confirmed that to be the case.

 

As you know,  all PTSA teams have regularly scheduled practice times on the fields for which we are "permitted" (the multi-purpose fields at PW Soccer Complex, PW Old Grasshopper, Elm Grove, Rees Park, and the Rees Park outfield) so I'm surprised a coach or coaches found it necessary to use the Elm Grove baseball field (apparently when we closed soccer fields for wet conditions). 

 

Please remind all Coaches that regular practices (i.e. conducted by a PTSA coach or coaches with a core group of players) are to take place only on the field areas for which PTSA has been issued a permit.  I hope that our Coaches would respect fields used primarily by other PT sports associations and honor them as closed if our own space is closed.  Also, I've learned that the Elm Grove baseball field has been adopted for maintenance by a volunteer that lives nearby ... I can only imagine his upset and frustration to see soccer players on the infield there at a time when the soccer fields were closed.  Sense how one of our own Adopt-a-Field volunteers would feel if, for example, the football association closed its fields and one of their teams showed up on one of our soccer fields to practice when not in use by PTSA.

 

Again, during a period when PTSA is trying vigorously to improve our field conditions in concert with PT Parks & Recreation Maintenance and our "Adopt-a-Field" volunteers, our credibility is harmed if some of our Members don't show respect for other fields while ours are closed.

 

Thanks for your consideration. 

Pete Chiste

President, Peters Township Soccer Association
724-969-1070 h
412-768-2391 c
pmchiste@hotmail.com

Fwd: Picture schedules

U8 Coaches:

Here are the picture schedules for this weekend. A few things that I wanted to note:

* Some of you still need to pick up your team packets. They are still on my front porch.
* Encourage your teams to arrive on-time for the photographs.
* Shelter #1 is the same location as the Soccer picnic. It's the big shelter at the top of the hill by the second playground.
* Shelter #2 is located just below Shelter #1. A soon as you turn left off Merideth Dr shelter #2 is on your right. Not to be confused with the shelter that overlooks the soccer complex (on your left).

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: LaVigna5 <mgam4@yahoo.com>
Date: Sep 18, 2006 2:21 PM
Subject: Picture schedules

Commissioners:

Attached are the schedules for pictures.  Please
forward to your coaches.  As you will notice, our
photographer, Bob Rulli, has two very long days.
Please encourage your coaches to arrive on time so Bob
can stay on schedule. With 112 teams we do not have
any vacant time spots. In addition, please note to
your coaches that Saturdays pictures are at Shelter #2
and Sundays pictures are at Shelter #1.

Thanks,
Gail

Fwd: Sporting Essentials: In-House Uniforms

Coaches:

Please forward this email to your parents.

See Pete's email below regarding feedback with respect to ordering soccer uniforms from Sporting Essentials. Any feedback (good or bad) would be appreciated from coaches and parents. Please send your comments to Pete at pmchiste@hotmail.com

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Sep 12, 2006 10:46 PM
Subject: Sporting Essentials: In-House Uniforms
To: Jim Massucci < jemptsa@hotmail.com>, Bill Harmon <Bill.harmon@ansys.com>, Tony Belfiore <abelfiore@gmail.com >, Doug Smith <judydougsmith@aol.com>, Brad Ross <ptsau8girls@hotmail.com>, Russ Rockwell < rrockwell@adelphia.net>, Paula O'Hare <Ammt66@aol.com>, Don Franty <dfranty@franty.com>

Commissioners,

 

As a follow-up item from last evening's Board meeting, please poll your coaches regarding the experience their players / parents had with regard to ordering from, and fulfillment by Sporting Essentials, of in-house soccer uniforms.  I've had some anecdotal indications of problems but not enough information to pursue resolution with Sporting Essentials.  I'm interested in hearing about the ordering process, accuracy of size fulfillment, timely/untimely delivery, honoring refund requests, etc. 

 

Parents can email me directly at pmchiste@hotmail.com.

 

Pete Chiste
pmchiste@hotmail.com
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c

PTSA Board Meeting Notes 09/12/2006

Here are my notes from the PTSA Board Meeting last night:

Picture Day
Picture packets are now available for pick-up (see my previous email). Team pictures will be scheduled for the weekend of September 23rd and 24th. A day/time schedule will be released within the next few days.

Parking Lot Issues
We discussed the issues concerning parking congestion at the Peterswood Soccer Complex. This was our very first weekend at the new complex (it was used in a limited capacity last year) and we discussed various approaches for managing parking issues in the future. Complicating the problem were the number of cars attending the adjacent football game. The board decided to pursue three ideas: communication with the football association, requesting no-parking signs at key bottleneck points entering the Soccer Complex, and potentially staggering game start times for the various age groups. Though, at this time, we plan on leaving the game schedule alone for the fall.

Number of Field Players
U8 teams should be playing with 4 field players and a goalie (5v5). I think there was some confusion earlier in the day between some of the coaches and the referees. I think we are all on the same page now. Sorry if this was confusing to some of the coaches. I'll try to make this more clear next year.

Kickoffs
It was noticed that some kids were shooting the ball at the goal on kickoffs. Be aware that our in-house U8 rules specify that you cannot score directly off of a kickoff. So, although there is nothing illegal about blasting a shot on a kickoff, it's best to have your players start with a forward pass to a teammate. I know it can be difficult to get your players to do this, since it is so tempting to take a shot from the center of the field.

Field Hotline
Thanks to everyone for abiding by the field hot line for rainy day closures (and, in some cases, wet field days). After a little bit of confusion (which was my fault for not communicating better), I think we are all on the same page.

From Pete Chiste:
"Commissioners, please again request Coaches comply with Field closure decisions.  In no certain priority, such compliance is necessary so (1) player safety is optimized, (2) our Adopt-a-Field volunteers don't tell PTSA they're quitting because their many hours of effort at reforming our fields is being abused, (3) PT Parks & Recreation personnel don't laugh at me when I request they do a better job of maintaining soccer field conditions, (4) compliant Coaches don't tell PTSA they're quitting because others aren't following the rules and the inequity isn't fair, and (5) we don't inflict undue damage to the fields."

The Fields Director mentioned last night that he plans on being more lenient on field closures as the season moves on. We'll be looking for volunteers after the season (early November) to help patch up troublesome spots at the Complex. If you care about the quality of our fields, especially for your team next spring, then I would recommend getting involved during this new field maintenance effort. More details to come later.

U8 Team Picture Packets

U8 Soccer Team picture packets are now available for all coaches to pick up.

They can be found, in a box, on my front porch. Take the packet with your name on it.
Hand out this information to your parents. Remind them that team picture day will be the weekend of September 23rd and 24th.

I will have the picture schedule within the next few days. I'll forward it to you as soon as it becomes available.
We are trying to ensure that picture schedules do not conflict with game schedules. Stay tuned.

Ball size and number of players

U8 Boys Coaches:

I wanted to answer a few questions that came up today. I hope all went well for everyone.

Both of these items, and additional information, can be found in the U8 Parent Guide on our U8 Boys home page.

* We play with a size 3 ball.
* We play 5v5, with 1 goal keeper and 4 field players.

One more thing. I don't think I said this enough to the coaches last year:
I really appreciate all that you guys do. It's a lot of work and time, and I appreciate all of your efforts.

I also want to thank everyone regarding the team and spectator locations. It seemed like everyone was on the same page.

Thanks again. You guys are doing a great job.

U8 Game Day Information

I wanted to give all of the coaches a few reminders for our first U8 soccer game this Saturday.

1. Check for "toe-cleats"

Make sure none of your players are wearing a shoe with a toe-cleat. Baseball and football shoes typically have a cleat at the front of the shoe called a "toe-cleat". Referees have been instructed to not let this equipment on the field. Last year we had many kids that could not play a game due to this issue. Please communicate this to all of your parents so everyone can play this weekend.

2. Respect the referees

Please keep in mind that the referees are typically kids and are part of the learning process. Avoid "making calls" for them. Please be patient and give them your respect. Always encourage them to be loud and vocal (as they are often timid). Prevent any coaching from behind the goals.

3. Team locations

See this diagram for spectator and team locations (give this to your parents):
http://abelfiore.googlepages.com/PeterswoodSoccerComplexFieldDiagram.jpg

Both team benches must be located on the same side of the field, separated by the halfway line and opposite the spectators. Please help the referees ensure this policy is enforced. Spectators should refrain from yelling out instructions and should not be located behind the goals.

4. Painting the lines

It is the responsibility of the coaches of the 9:00 a.m. games to paint the lines on the field prior to game time. Please make sure that all U8 boys fields (#3, #4 and #5) get lined - not just "your" field for that day. Please read the coaches guide for specific information.

5. Make-Up Games

Check the fields hot line to make sure the fields are open prior to game time. The policy for make-up games is now available on http://www.ptsoccer.net/
Click on the Referee tab to the left for specific instructions.

Fwd: Fw: Elm Grove Guide lines

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com>
Date: Sep 4, 2006 8:20 PM
Subject: Fw: Elm Grove Guide lines

Commissioners,

 

Dave Vaughan is our "Adopt-a-Field" contact for Elm Grove.  Dave has dedicated an enormous amount of his time and labor to that field this year and it is looking great due in large part to his efforts and those of other volunteers.  Dave has suggested some guidelines that apply to Elm Grove, which I endorse ... see below.  And, please forward to your coaches with a request they follow similar instructions that may have universal applicability to all our fields, in terms of practicing across fields, staying away from goal areas, proper movement of the practice goals, moving practice goals to field perimeter after last practices, etc.

 

Pete Chiste
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c
pmchiste@hotmail.com

----- Original Message -----

From: David Vaughan

To: pete chiste ; Brad Carpenter ; Stephen Magnotti

Sent: Sunday, September 03, 2006 2:03 PM

Subject: Elm Grove Guide lines

Pete,

 

I wanted to get this out to the coaches that are using Elm Grove.  This may pertain to other fields as well.  They are simply my suggestions and can be edited to your approval.  We may want use this as a template to structure some field guidelines for all coaches to follow on all fields. 

 

 

 

Coaches,

 

I have a few requests for the use of Elm Grove Fields.  The field is looking very good this season and if we all do our part to maintain it we can ensure that it remains in good condition.

 

• When at all possible please use the small cross goals and conduct practice across the field.  This will give the goal areas a break during the week.
• When the field is wet try to stay out of the goal areas completely during practice.
• If the cross goals are used, please make sure that they are removed from the field of play after practice.  They do kill the grass underneath them if they are left in one area for any length of time.
• The maintenance crews will not pick up any trash that is not in the garbage can.  This includes trash that is sitting next to the garbage can.  Please take the responsibility to make sure your players have picked up all of their trash and and placed it in the can.  You are responsible for trash that is on the players bench on the far sideline.  If the trash is not picked up it will be mowed over and scattered across the field.  If you ask your players to pick up just one piece of trash, even if it is not theirs, before they leave the field then we will not have a trash problem
• The corner flags are located in the metal storage locker by the bleachers.  It difficult to open and I will try and remedy that.  Last coach please make sure the corner flags are put away.
• I will try and keep the fields lined on Fridays but the first coach needs to verify that fields are lined and ready to go.
• I have left zip ties in the storage box for net repair.  If you see a net that needs repaired then repair it.  Again I will try and keep up on this weekly but that may not be enough.
• For the U-10 goals that will be place in front of the permanent goals.  Please try and carry these to the goal instead of dragging them.  They do tear up the turf when dragged.  I have found that tipping them over first is the most balanced way to carry them.  Please remove them form the playing field when your are finished.  I suggest that they are place behind the sidelines instead of behind the goal line, as this would be distracting for the players.
• Please report any and all issues with the field.  Although I am up at the field often, we need input on what needs to be addressed.  This includes fields to wet, fields to dry,  major pot holes, safety issues, vandalism, net and goal issues.  If we report these issues we can get them fixed.  Don't assume that they will be noticed and fixed by others.
• Last coaches of the day have the ultimately responsibility to verify that the field is in order before leaving.  Corner flags should be stored, all trash should be removed, and all issues should be reported.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

David N. Vaughan D.M.D

724-207-3911

www.romanvaughan.com

 

 

 

Soccer Equipment Status

Here is an update on soccer equipment.

I picked up medical kits, size 3 balls, goalie shirts and goalie gloves. I've placed this equipment on my front porch. My address is 109 Trotwood Drive, Venetia. Make sure you check-off-your-name so I know who has stopped.

Important Notes:
=============

• Everyone gets 1 medical kit.
• We are short on size 3 balls. So, only pick up one size 3 ball if you need one. If you coached U6 or U8 last year then you likely won't need one.
• Please drop off one of your size 4 balls. You can keep the other one.
• I was given goalie gloves for this year (we didn't use them last year). Take a pair if you want them. They are optional for you to use.
• I was only given a handful of goalie shirts. There will not be enough for everyone. For those that don't get a goalie shirt, the Equipment Director suggested you use the yellow pinnies in your coaches bag or pick up a used shirt from a thrift store. My suggestion: you can always use a different colored soccer jersey from home ( e.g. The yellow British Soccer Camp jersey from this year).
  

Fwd: Field Closure Message

A message from Pete about the fields hotline.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Peter Chiste <pmchiste@hotmail.com >
Date: Aug 30, 2006 9:28 PM
Subject: Field Closure Message

Commissioners,

 

The PTSA Fields (all) were closed via PTSA Hotline voice message posted on Tues. 8/29 due to standing water and spongy conditions.  I've had reports that teams practiced Tuesday, nevertheless.  The Hotline message was not changed today, Weds 8/29, hence the fields (all) were not yet re-opened, yet I know practices occurred on every field tonight. 

 

Please reiterate with your Coaches that they must abide by our Field Director decisions regarding field openings and closings.  Many volunteers spent a lot of hours and labor at our fields over the last month and the fields are now at risk of being torn up because Coaches are making unilateral decisions to practice regardless of the closures. 

 

I have heard many, many complaints about the poor condition of our fields and most lay the blame on neglect by PT Parks & Recreation.  However, PTSA will have no one to blame but itself when our teams trample upon wet fields during periods post-rain storms.  Although rain may have been light yesterday and today, the fields are still in fragile condition as many field areas are perched and do not absorb water or drain well.

 

Again,  please notify all Coaches in your respective age groups to check the PTSA Hotline (724-969-0771) frequently to ascertain field openings / closings and rremind them that whatever the last message is on the hotline controls from that date forward.

 

Thanks.

 

Pete Chiste
724-969-1070 h
412-327-8538 c
pmchiste@hotmail.com

Soccer Picture Day

I just wanted to let everyone know that team photo day is scheduled for Saturday September 23 and Sunday September 24.
Specific time schedules have not been released yet.

You might want to pass this note onto parents.

I'll be sending you time schedules when they become available.

Practice Times and Field Diagram

I've updated our U8 boys homepage: http://abelfiore.googlepages.com/ptsau8boyshomepage

You can view the entire practice schedule: http://abelfiore.googlepages.com/PTSAU8BoysPracticeSchedule.htm
I believe everyone got their top 2 choices. Cool.

Also, I've attached a diagram of the Peterswood Soccer Complex:
http://abelfiore.googlepages.com/PeterswoodSoccerComplexFieldDiagram.jpg

Important Note: Please take note of the yellow and blue boxes on the diagram.
These are the areas where the teams (blue areas) and spectators (yellow areas)
should be located during games. Please help the referees ensure we follow
these guidelines.

U8 Boys Game Schedule Completed

I've updated our U8 Boys home page.

It now contains our game schedule.

A few important notes:
=================
* The home team is on the left and wears white.

* It is the responsibility of the 9am coaches to line the fields. You might want to delegate this job to helpful parents.
I would recommend painting the lines on Thursday or Friday, so your not scrambling on Saturday morning.
Please make sure all three U8 boys fields (Field #3, Field #4, and Field #5) get lined.
For more information on painting the lines see the Field Preparation section of the coaches guide.

* I intend on giving the fields some rest this year (note the black boxes on the game schedule). I hope this cuts
down on the wear and tear we normally see.

U8 Coaches Info and Practice Time Requests

I now have 18 committed coaches. Whew. It wasn't easy.

First and foremost, I want to thank all of you for committing your time to the soccer program.
It is greatly appreciated. I can't say this enough.

As always, the U8 home page is this: abelfiore.googlepages.com/ptsau8boyshomepage

I plan on sending out rosters tomorrow.
As I get late registrations I'll add kids to your teams.
If anyone has a kid that quits then let me know ASAP so I can get you a replacement.

I need each and every one of you to do three things:

1. Confirm your name, phone number and email address that I have listed here:
http://abelfiore.googlepages.com/PTSAU8BoysCoaches.htm
This is the information I will provide to the PTSA. Email me either way - let me know if it is correct or incorrect.

2. Please send me a list of your practice time requests. You have until this Friday night to get me your requests. Please provide at least 4 time slots that work for you. Rank them in order. I'll try and be as fair as possible. There are 3 available time slots to pick from Monday through Friday: 4:30-5:30pm, 5:30-6:30pm, and 6:30-7:30pm.
3. If you have not picked up a coaches bag voucher (and a coupon booklet for your parents), then please stop by my house sometime in the next week. My address is 109 Trotwood Drive, Venetia. Just call and make sure we'll be home. I think I'll be home all tomorrow night after 5pm. You need to pick up your coaches bag at the South Hills Village Dick's store within the next week or two (I can't seem to find the date right now). Remember that you'll be receiving size 4 balls in your bag - which you'll exchange with me or Brad Carpenter for the correct size 3. More on that later.

Once again, I can't thank you guys enough. Good luck this year.

Coaches Meeting Notes 8/16/2006

Here are my notes from the coaches meeting. Please red carefully, as there are a few key items that you need to understand.

* Some folks asked again last night about the home page I have for U8 Boys. I try to include it on every email. So, here it is: http://abelfiore.googlepages.com/ptsau8boyshomepage
Please read through both the Parent and Coaches guide. They will answer a lot of your questions. Feel free to share the Parent Guide link with your parents.

* Practices can start as early as August 21st. The hang up, right now for me, is securing at least one more coach before I release rosters. If you know anyone that would be interested please let me know. I'm desperate.

* Games start September 9th.

* October 28th is the last day of games (November 4th would be for make ups)

* U8 practices and games will be located at the Peterswood Soccer Complex (known last year as Field #5 in Peterswood Park). I'll be sending out a diagram of the fields sometime in the next week or so.

* Don't send me practice time requests just yet. I'm waiting to hear from the Fields Coordinator regarding field availability for practice times. As soon as I get the rosters done I'll send an email to all of you asking for day/time preferences. So, stay tuned, and keep checking your email.

* Dick's Sporting Goods is providing equipment bags for coaches. I'll distribute a voucher card to each coach. Coaches then take the cards to Dick's store at South Hills Village and pick up their bags. Bags will be available only at this store. For those U-8 coaches who received a voucher for a Dick's bag with size 4 balls, please redeem the voucher and Brad Carpenter will switch out the size 4 balls for size 3. If you were unable to make the coaches meeting last night, you will have to stop by my house and pick up your voucher. My address is: 109 Trotwood Drive, Venetia PA 15367.

* First aid supplies, goalie shirts and goalie gloves will be issued to coaches separately from the Dick's bags. I'm not sure when these will be available.

* We have a new policy for rescheduling games ( e.g. makeups due to weather ot other reasons). I'll be sending out an email later with the details.

* There are coaching courses available in the near future, for anyone that would be interested. Here are the ones targeted for U8 level coaches:

E License (reimbursed by PTSA)
Aug. 18-20 $50.00 Murrysville
Aug. 25-27 $50.00 Grove City

U6-U8 Youth Module
Aug. 19 Butler
Aug. 21 Washington City / Finleyville
Aug. 26 Seneca Valley North
Aug. 28-29 Washington City / Beth Center
Sept. 12-13 Sewickley

* Adopt-a-Field program: PTSA is encouraging all coaches and parents to volunteer time to help re-condition our fields periodically. David Vaughan coordinates Elm Grove and Brad Carpenter coordinates Rees Park. If interested in volunteering to coordinate work at Peterswood Soccer Complex, Old Grasshopper, or Venetia Elementary, contact Steve Magnotti, PTSA's Director of Fields. We'll be scheduling a date in November for post Fall season repair and a date in March for pre Spring season repair.

* Sporting Essentials is official supplier of In-House and Travel Uniforms. Information on PTSA website. In-House uniform sizing / ordering nights by Sporting Essentials will be held on August 23 & 24 at the PTCC Multipurpose Room from 6:00pm to 8:30 pm. Coaches to inform all parents. Our approved In-House Uniform set is a "HighFive" brand reversible jersey (red/white), Metro Short (black) and red sock. Players unable to attend those nights may order via 1-800 (see website).

* All head coaches will be required to have a Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Clearance pursuant to a program of the Peters Township Parks & Recreation Department effective 3/1/06. Many of our coaches are already on a list of approved coaches that will be sent to all Commissioners. If a coach does not have clearance, they will have to provide Pete Chiste their name, date of birth, and social security number by August 25th. This information will be given to the Peters Township Parks & Recreation Director so the Peters Township Police Department can conduct the checks. PTSA covers the cost of obtaining the check and clearance. For coaches who are not comfortable providing their SS# to PTSA or the Peters Township Department of Parks & Recreation, they can obtain these checks directly and they must provide their clearance confirmations to the Peters Township Department of Parks & Recreation. ANY YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION THAT KNOWINGLY VIOLATES THE PETERS TOWNSHIP POLICY IS SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY MEASURES THAT MAY INCLUDE RESTRICTIONS ON FACILITY AND/OR FIELD USAGE, AND SUSPENSION OF COACHES AND/OR OFFICERS.

Fwd: PTSA Board Meeting Notes 08/07/2006

Here are my notes, that I wanted to pass onto you, from the PTSA board meeting last night.

* The coaches meeting for tomorrow night has been postponed to next Tuesday, August 15, 7:00pm-9:00pm at the Rec Center. Please respond to my other email confirming you got the message.

* Sporting Essentials, the company that provides our game uniforms, will be on-site August 23rd and 24th from 6:00pm-8:30pm. This is a good opportunity for parents to try out the various uniform sizes before placing their orders. Please inform your parents, when you get your roster, of these dates.

* Right now I have 13 coaches committed. I expect to need another 5 - making for 18 total teams. I'm still receiving registration information from the registrar.

* PT Parks and Rec are going to "enforce" that all coaches have clearance checks prior to the Fall session. More information on this will be discussed at the coaches meeting. Please make sure you get this completed.

* The first game will be September 9th. Most coaches start practices 2 weeks prior to games - so that would be Monday August 28.

* It looks like we will be receiving coaching bags from Dick's Sporting Goods again. I believe that bag vouchers (and possibly medical kits) will be handed out at the coaches meeting.

* The area in Peterswood Park known as "Field 5" from last year is being renamed to "Peterswood Soccer Complex". This is the area across the street and down the hill from the old Grasshopper fields.

* That being said, you'll all become very familiar with the Peterswood Soccer Complex - since all of our U8 practices and games will be located there. The Venetia fields have been closed for repairs in the fall.

* I plan on creating/lining 5 U8 size fields at the Peterswood Soccer Complex sometime in the next week or so. It could be as early as this weekend. If anyone can help, then I would greatly appreciate your time. I'll send out an email when I pick a day and time.