At BASA, FC Barrington and FCX we would like to continue to be part of your scheduled planning again this fall, winter and spring.  We strive to offer a value in organized team sports, and offer a wide range of competitive levels to meet the need of all players. 

As a club, our registration numbers are strong for the fall.  Our travel programs between FCX (ages U15 through U18) and FC Barrington (U8 through U14) are stronger than ever in terms of number of teams as well as quality of the teams.  I truly believe that the foundational programs we have established over the recent years to deliver top class facilities for play and practice are an element of the draw that our programs offer to the athletes.  The Lake Barrington Field House is among the top field houses in the country and the South Barrington super turf fields offer flexibility for our programs independent of weather conditions.  A special congratulation to Board Member Kent Wardin, Ryan Snyder and the BASA Staff for making these projects a reality.

Our recreational program has flourished under the guidance of Emily Snyder over the recent seasons.  Emily brings a fresh new approach to getting the kids involved in soccer with the introduction of friendly matches and other events that mix the players to get a new experience within these staff lead activities.  It is very rewarding to see kids having fun playing soccer, and learning teamwork along the way.

One element of our recreational program that is often under utilized is the referee program.  This program give kids 12 years old and up an opportunity to try their luck as a referee for the youth soccer in our recreational leagues.  The newest referees work the youngest kids games, and as they continue to get more experience they ref the older, more competitive games.  My daughter is in the program and she loves it.  She has fun with her friends, meets new kids her own age, and makes a little money as well.  The introductory meeting is coming up on July 25^th, so check the BASA website for details.

We look forward to a fall of fun, safe soccer filled with good sportsmanship.  Please remember that as parents our kids are always watching us, how we act and carry ourselves.  We need to set a positive example at all soccer events, congratulating accomplishments and being supportive through life lessons that come out in sports.

As the new BASA board president, I encourage you to provide feedback to me, our other board members or BASA staff on how we are doing.  We operate in your best interest, and encourage your involvement in our program at any time.

Paul Morin