“They’re choosing up sides, deciding who will play offense and who will play defense while the parents try to understand what’s happening on the field. That description could be about any good soccer game, but unfortunately it describes almost every recent North Kitsap Soccer Club board meeting. This outstanding local club has endured month after month of in-fighting, bickering and hurt feelings. People who care deeply about children and providing them with an opportunity to learn and enjoy playing soccer have become locked in bitter accusations and arguments. The board must emerge from the mud and return to its primary focus-kids. Monday night’s board meeting included appeals for respect, courteous treatment and positive approaches to problem solving-the very values the club teaches their players. Board members (most of whom are new to their jobs) are quick to admit that there were some poor decisions, and that its time for the organization to move forward. We encourage everyone involved to begin focusing on healing, not name-calling. There’s something more you can help this group get over the hump. Qualified people are being asked to become candidates for openings on the board–elections are in November. Do you qualify? If you care about kids and soccer, are willing to work long hours-often at night and on weekends–don’t mind being rained on, taken for granted, and complained about-no matter what you do, you belong on this board. The rewards? You help provide hundreds of children with an opportunity to learn a sport they can enjoy for a lifetime. Friendships made among kids and parents on the soccer field help unite this community. It’s long past time for the entire soccer club organization to focus on what’s good for the kids —for the good of the game and the community. “