Concerned High School Soccer Community:

I'm not really sure what to write in this reply, but let me assure you that there are some coaches within the association still working hard to try and pull together a North-South Soccer Classic of some form for this year.

We have run into some obstacles that are very simply out of the control of the S.C. High School Soccer Coaches Association or any of the coaches that serve in an organizational capacity.

I understand the responses to this issue and only wish more heed had been paid in February when it was first announced that Home Depot had pulled their substantial sponsorship. Dr. Tom Reilly the director of the North-South Soccer Classic, has worked tirelessly trying to replace those funds. It has not led to fruition. Coach Reilly, SC Soccer Chairman Dickie Smith, Assistant North-South Director Scott Ruggles, SCHSSCA President Peter Heusinger, SCSOCCER.COM's Kyle Heise, the SCHSSCA Executive Board, and a host of dedicated high school soccer coaches, have worked extremely hard for years to make the North-South Soccer Classic a premier prep event.

There are sentiments not to stage the event, if we cannot meet our previous high standards, but I for one agree that the game "must go on" if only in fairness to the senior players that only have this once in a lifetime opportunity. As a former North-South player from the inaugural game in 1989, I can attest that the event has grown into a grandiose affair and is one the coaches' association should be proud. However, the essence of being recognized as one of the state's top senior players is a credit to years of hard work and commitment. It's also the last time many of these young people will have the opportunity to play soccer in a competitive environment.

There are questions with liability and responsibility for the players if we staged only a one day event. I know the convenient reply is "no more than if it's a two-three-day event", but these are issues that have to be decided by those that are ultimately accountable.

The SCHSSCA Executive Board will be meeting on Sunday at Brookland-Cayce High School following the All-State committee meetings at 1:00 p.m.

In closing, I think that we have to remember that the game - whether grandiose or not - is for the kids! (keeping my fingers crossed for a positive result)

Kevin Heise
SCHSSCA