Several weeks ago, CESA members were sent an "open letter" telling them that CESA was going to try to help by becoming the title sponsor of the event. What's the status of this?
Here's the letter, dated April 25, 2005:
We have recently begun discussions with the SCHSSCA (South Carolina High School Soccer Coaches Association) regarding financial and logistical help that we might be able to provide to them concerning the North-South Soccer Classic event. The previous title sponsor of this event, Home Depot, recently ended its association with the event, which in turn caused the event to be cancelled. While the event has just recently been resurrected, we are working with the SCHSSCA on developing a partnership that would have CESA assuming the role of title sponsor for the event for the next few years in order to return the event to a solid financial footing.
It should be noted that if an agreement were reached, that CESA member dues would not be used to pay for this event. We have had several parents of CESA players contact us and offer to provide donations. If an agreement were reached, we will then build a fund-raising program specifically for this event.
Why are we doing this? There are several reasons. Of course, CESA is proud of each of its players and the contributions that those participating in high school make to their community. We want to make sure that this event continues so that all of us can continue to celebrate their success. But perhaps more importantly, CESA believes that high school and club soccer must work together closely for the success of soccer in South Carolina. All too often, there is a perception of “us versus them” with respect to high school and club soccer; we believe it is important for us to step up during this crisis to demonstrate our commitment not just to club soccer, but also to South Carolina soccer in general. In order to continue the rapid progress of South Carolina soccer, all of us in the soccer community have to reach out beyond our isolated interests and work together. Otherwise, in our relatively small state, we are never going to provide to our children the advantages that are found in larger, more populous, states.
If you are interested in donating money specifically for this cause, please contact one of us. And as always, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to let us know.
Sincerely,
/s Andrew Hyslop /s
/s Pearse Tormey /s
