Hi Everyone...
I will give probably my highest review of a tournament that I possibly can. Despite the rain, despite Friday being totally washed out, despite the weather delays on Sunday, this was a very well run tournament.
--The communication was excellent, coaches always made aware of changes, the grounds crew and umpires were always where they were supposed to be. The TD, Joe Gabriele, was always accessible and kept the scores posted and updated. The initial schedule was provided timely to all the coaches and they utilized their website to post schedules, rules etc. The decision making to proceed on Saturday with 2 full length PP games, after Friday's wash-out, was very well thought out and kept the focus on the girls playing as many meaningful games as possible.
--The facility is dynamite. All the fields are close together and within a quick walk to concessions, restrooms, and warmup areas. The fields were amazing despite the rain. Parking is more than adequate. Excellent!
--Concessions were excellent. Fast, friendly, and well stocked.
--Restrooms (full service) were clean and well stocked. No overflowing trash cans. There were trash cans throughout the park and litter was minimal.
--This was by far the best group of umpires I have ever had at any tournament I have attended. They were competent, consistent, courteous, and willing to spend time with me with the silly DP/FLEX questions that seem to never go away. Also, I don't want to sound corny here, but I liked that there were a lot of female umpires working the games because I think its important for the young players to see women giving back to the game and preforming in an important role, demonstrating confidence, backbone etc. I did not witness a single "arrogant" ump that we like to stereotype, but to quite the opposite I saw great interaction with the players, encouragement, and positive comments all around. Even though they are technically getting paid, I would call them all "humble servants"... a very high complement.
--Also usually overlooked...one of my players was struck hard in the shin by a grounder and, very quickly, a golf cart showed up at our field with a bag of ice. I will also thank Coach Shealy of the host team for taking the lead to tend to my player's injury.
--The warm up areas are excellent. An entire practice football field is available for all the teams to use.
A well done event. Highly recommended
Joe Nay
Thunder Elite 03
