Editor’s note: Vince Greco announced his plans today to step down as President of the VISL in 2018. His seven years at the helm has seen the league grow both in size and stature. I can’t think of anyone in the B.C. amateur game who promotes their teams and leagues with Vince’s enthusiasm. He’s a tireless champion for the VISL. Below is the letter he sent to the media announcing his intentions. Best wishes to Vince & his family for whatever the future holds!
I wanted to thank all of you who have helped, been part of, published, enjoyed, and shared the love of the amateur soccer game – specifically with the VISL. Weather it was on Monday mornings with Cliff, drives home with Mark and/or Terry, the papers with Kevin or Cleeve & Mario, the TV with Jordan or Jeff, or the ever expanding website world – it has been a very enjoyable experience. I must say that dealing with all the interested individuals was a pleasure. Thanks for the last 15 years of support!
Times are a changing. The League has grown with community investment & involvement, expectations from membership, requirements from parent organizations, and the overall desire for us to provide a quality service to all people involved. We have survived the past 122 years as a volunteer organization – 1 of the very few in Men’s soccer across the Province. There have been great players come through our League, unbelievable teams, and mentors in leadership that have sacrificed plenty of their own time for the betterment of the League. It has been a pleasure for me to get 7 years in as President, and another 10 or so in other Board member positions.
I have decided that I can no longer devote the proper time necessary to get the League where it needs to go and to really keep up with the daily expectations of it.
My family has been super supportive over the years, but I am starting to realize that the amount of time spent volunteering vs wife & kids vs profession is not balanced. A 2.5 year old boy and 6.5 year old girl need my tickling, hugs, and attention more regularly.
So selfishly, a little disappointed that I was unable to fulfill my goal of 8 years of President and become the longest consecutive President years wise. On the positive side, it has been great to take the League into a different direction though and learn so much. It has been amazing to see all the changes media wise – especially the growth of website news and obviously social media…….something I knew very little about 8 years ago.
In September, I let our Board know that May 30 will be my last day as the year comes to an end. (This also proves that it was not a knee jerk reaction to Italy not making the World Cup and all the other resignations happening)
I am not sure what the future will bring and what kind of involvement I will have moving forward, but I do hope to still be a part of our great soccer community.
It has been a pleasure to deal with sponsors & partners, members up down and across the Island, and most importantly to me, my workmates/fellow Board members.
You will still hear from me for the remainder of the year!!