THE FUTURE OF HAMILTON SPARTA

Hamilton Sparta is one of the oldest clubs in existence in Ontario, having served this soccer community for 37 years. This season we fielded 15competive teams. Eleven teams competed in the South Region Soccer League, most at the elite level. The two teams in the provincial league (OYSL) proved they can compete with any teams in the country. Our senior teams (mens & womens) are both within a game of first place in their leagues. This is the largest contingent ever fielded by our club. The future looks very bright in terms of competitiveness, as players from all over the region and beyond look to Sparta for a continuing program of excellence.

This season, a cloud drifted our way from the OSA, as a governance committee proposed a rule that would require each club to field at least 5 registered house league teams for each competitive entry. This was put forward to rein in several associations who refused to register house league players with the OSA. The other clubs in Hamilton supported this recommendation, seeing a perceived opportunity to dismantle the club which seems to attract the most committed players who search out a supportive and reliable club program. However, the proposal was met with much opposition and many questions at the May OSA Board meeting, with the result that it was sent back to a new committee for more study. It was on the agenda for the August meeting but never reached the table. It will be discussed in November, obviously too late for activation next season. However, we do not feel it will be passed in its current form due to the problems it would cause through-out Ontario. The board members appreciate the importance of clubs like Sparta in terms of player development, promotion of the game and contribution to the community. Should such a rule as proposed be enacted, it would simply mean that Sparta
would either develop a house league or join forces with one of the existing house league clubs which lacks a viable competitive program. Regardless, one can rest assured that Sparta will be fully operational next season and beyond. The dedication of the coaches, the commitment of the players, the confidence of the parents and the determination of the executive committee will ensure that our tradition of excellence will carry us into the future.

John Valvasori
President, Hamilton Sparta Soccer Club