Joe Miller
It is hard to believe that my second year as president of NISOA is drawing to a close. To say this has been a unique two years for a NISOA president is an understatement. When I took office, I was faced with the realization that I did not have Dr. Ray Bernabei to rely on for guidance and direction. Thankfully, there were other mainstays in the organization who continued to do the daily work and ensure no tasks were left undone. At my first Executive Council meeting, I had the privilege and yet tough decision of appointing several individuals to fill unexpired terms of office. This was done after much thought and discussion with key people.
A few months later NISOA went through the process of selecting a new Executive Director and reorganizing the functions that Dr. Bernabei performed. His responsibilities were divided among three individuals who have all done an excellent job at the tasks assigned.
The 2009 Annual Convention in San Francisco was a great success. The feedback I received about the clinics and the various meetings was most positive. A special thank you to the West Coast Chapter for the outstanding planning they did in preparing for the event. One of the many critical outcomes of that convention was to task a working group to rewrite the National Referee Program Policies. These revised policies have been approved and the program is moving forward in preparation of the 2010 clinics. This year’s sessions should be very interesting and informative for all participants.
In October 2009, a summit was held with some key leaders of NISOA. This provided an opportunity for the newly appointed Executive Director to become familiar with NISOA procedures and how each person functioned. One of the many outcomes of the summit was the formation of a President’s Council who work as a team to move NISOA forward and deal with any issues in a professional manner.
When I became president I had three goals. One was to have on-line training for the membership. This has started with video clips and instructional articles on the web site. Also, negotiations are continuing with Arbitersports to develop a partnership which will include video training and on-line testing through the Arbiter system. My second goal was to enhance the web site. The new web master (John Puglisi, NY Metro ISOA) has done an outstanding job in this regard. There are many educational articles, information items and news which is updated on a regular basis. My third goal was to increase the foundation fund. Thanks to NCAA grants, a U. S. Soccer grant, corporate sponsors and private donations this has occurred. I encourage everyone to utilize the sponsors on the web site so that donations continue.
The two years is passing quickly. There is much more I would want to accomplish before December 31, 2010. I am confident that our incoming president, Manual Ortiz, Jr. and our Executive Board will continue to move NISOA in a positive direction.
Thank you for allowing me to have the privilege of being the president of such a great organization.
Joseph Miller
NISOA President, 2009-10