The Morongo Basin Youth Soccer Association Board President, Adán Mendoza, resigned from his position, following the events of an emergency meeting held last Thursday (March 24) to discuss schedules and uniforms for the upcoming start of games. Jef Harmatz has the full update…
During the meeting, an unsuccessful attempt was made to vote Mendoza off the board in the presence of Cal-South District 5 Board Member Adam Wilson, lacking sufficient support. Following the attempted vote, Mendoza handed in his resignation.
“It is with deep regret that I hand in my resignation, effective immediately,” said Mendoza. “Regardless of the lack of votes, the league is owed a board that supports one another. It’s evident that my vision for the league was not in line with some of the board members, despite our initial uniformity. My hope was to make changes that would benefit the league and propel it to a higher standard for its participants and the community. This included being more transparent with our accounts, and taking on projects that would overhaul old systems. I understand this was a huge undertaking for any board to accomplish, and respect the opinions of the board members who did not wish to see it through under my leadership.”
During his three months as President, Mendoza spearheaded a number of projects, including a new logo, a revamped website and Facebook page, the implementation of online data-keeping, and the introduction of online registrations to MBYSA. Future projects included a carnival-style opening ceremony, tournaments, hosting fundraising events, and participating in the events of the community.
Despite his shortened presidency, Adan expressed gratitude for his experience.
“I’m proud to have led the board that brought in nearly four hundred registrants during a non-competitive season. I will hold on to the good memories in which this board collectively saw through a great deal of adversity to provide a spring season for our youth. I want to thank the sponsors, parents, players, volunteers, and board members who believed in my vision, especially the over twenty coaches and volunteers who voted me into this position. As well as the local newspaper and radio station who continuously supported our efforts through publicizing our events. My wife – who took on a volunteer position, went above and beyond, supported my passion and made sacrifices alongside me – I appreciate above all. To the new coaches, I promised to help and support, my offer remains. I started my involvement with MBYSA as a youth soccer player myself. I owe my passion for coaching to MBYSA and regret that my involvement with the league will end here, but look forward to the opportunities ahead.”
Mendoza voiced support for the board members that remain. “Regardless of our differences, I appreciate the hard work this board continues to put into the league, and wish them the best of luck. I hope the enthusiasm for positive change and transparency to the league’s participants continues, and I look forward to seeing our youth benefit from their leadership above all. I will continue to do everything I can to complete a successful transfer of power.”
Adán Mendoza will continue his passion for youth sports and looks forward to exploring opportunities to introduce club soccer to the community. “For now, I plan to enjoy my wife and son and prepare for the arrival of my second son.”
Resigning with him are Director of Sponsors, Rene Diaz, Director of Coaches, Arturo Gradilla, as well as Director of Information, Jessica Jean Mendoza. Vice-President Keelain Gonzales will step in as President of the league.
