What is the Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club. How is the club structured. What are the responsibilities of board members. How does the club operate and manage its programs.
The Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club: An Overview
The Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club (HRLC) is a community-based organization dedicated to promoting and developing the sport of lacrosse in Huntley, Illinois. With a structured board of directors and various leadership positions, the club aims to provide a comprehensive lacrosse program for both boys and girls in the area.
The club operates with a focus on player development, community engagement, and program management. By establishing clear roles and responsibilities for its board members, the HRLC ensures efficient operation and growth of the sport within the community.
Board Structure and Governance
The HRLC is governed by a Board of Directors, which holds monthly meetings to discuss club matters and make important decisions. These meetings are open to active members in good standing, promoting transparency and involvement within the organization.
Key Leadership Positions
- President
- Vice President
- Treasurer
- Secretary
- Field and Equipment Director
- Director of Boys Program Development
- Director of Girls Program Development
- Marketing & Social Committee Head
Each position on the board comes with specific responsibilities, ensuring that all aspects of the club’s operations are managed effectively.
Presidential Duties and Authority
The President of the Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club serves as the primary leader and decision-maker. Their responsibilities include:
- Calling to order business meetings of the Board of Directors and General Committee
- Serving as an official member of all committees
- Convening special meetings for disciplinary matters
- Arbitrating all matters and casting the deciding vote in case of ties
- Signing checks and bank withdrawals (along with the Treasurer)
- Attending all scheduled HRLC meetings or designating a current board member to attend
The President’s role is crucial in maintaining the club’s direction and ensuring smooth operations across all areas.
Financial Management and Treasurer’s Role
Financial stability is essential for any sports club, and the HRLC has a dedicated Treasurer to manage its finances. The Treasurer’s responsibilities include:
- Receiving commitment checks from players
- Collecting and disbursing funds as needed
- Managing bank accounts
- Keeping records of receipts and expenditures
- Providing monthly financial statements
- Creating an annual budget for board approval
- Assisting the President with financial duties
- Maintaining access to the club’s P.O. box and distributing mail
This comprehensive approach to financial management ensures the club’s resources are used effectively and transparently.
Field and Equipment Management
The Field and Equipment Director plays a vital role in ensuring the club has the necessary resources for practices and games. Their duties include:
- Securing field space for indoor and outdoor practices and games
- Ensuring proper field markings for all divisions
- Managing inventory, storage, and movement of all equipment
- Coordinating with coaches for field setup and teardown
- Ensuring access to necessary facilities, including restrooms
Effective field and equipment management is crucial for providing a high-quality experience for players and coaches alike.
Program Development and Coaching Structure
The HRLC has separate directors for boys’ and girls’ program development. These positions are typically held by the Huntley High School Varsity Head Coaches or individuals appointed and approved by the Board. Their responsibilities include:
- Selecting coaching staff (with board approval)
- Managing teams within their respective programs
- Ensuring compliance with HRLC and current athletic conference guidelines
This structure allows for focused development of both boys’ and girls’ lacrosse programs, tailoring strategies to the specific needs of each group.
Marketing and Community Engagement
The Marketing & Social Committee Head is responsible for increasing community awareness and engagement with the HRLC. Their duties include:
- Promoting the club through various community events and channels
- Organizing fundraising events, including dine & share events and club-wide fundraisers
- Securing sponsorships from local and national businesses
- Managing social media presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram
These efforts are crucial for growing the club’s presence in the community and securing necessary resources for its operations.
Administrative Support and Communication
The Secretary of the HRLC provides essential administrative support and facilitates communication within the club. Their responsibilities include:
- Notifying board members and general members of meetings
- Managing registration and member notifications
- Coordinating and maintaining all club correspondence
- Maintaining and providing access to club bylaws
- Coordinating and recording background checks
Effective communication and administrative management are key to the smooth operation of the club and its programs.
Vice Presidential Duties
The Vice President of the HRLC serves as a crucial support to the President and other board members. Their responsibilities include:
- Acting as President in the absence of the elected President
- Working directly with the Boys and Girls Program Directors and the Board
- Chairing the Disciplinary Committee for lacrosse-related issues
- Managing volunteers for various game-day roles
- Proposing budget expenses related to field or game day equipment
- Recording player and coach ejections
The Vice President’s role ensures continuity in leadership and provides additional support across various aspects of the club’s operations.
Disciplinary Procedures and Conflict Resolution
The HRLC has established procedures for handling disciplinary issues and conflicts within the organization. When disciplinary measures are deemed necessary:
- The President convenes a special meeting of the Board of Directors
- The Vice President chairs the Disciplinary Committee specifically for lacrosse-related issues
- The board reviews the situation and determines appropriate actions
This structured approach ensures fair and consistent handling of disciplinary matters, maintaining the integrity of the club and its programs.
Financial Oversight and Budgeting
Financial management is a collaborative effort within the HRLC, with several key processes in place:
- The Treasurer creates an annual budget for board approval
- Any expenses must be approved by the Board
- The President and Treasurer have the power to sign checks and make bank withdrawals
- Monthly financial statements are provided to ensure transparency
This system of checks and balances ensures responsible financial management and helps maintain the club’s financial health.
Equipment and Field Management Process
The Field and Equipment Director follows a specific process to manage the club’s resources:
- Conducts regular inventory checks of all equipment
- Makes recommendations to the Board for equipment replacement
- Submits equipment needs in writing to the Board for budget approval
- Coordinates with coaches to ensure proper field setup and teardown
- Regularly assesses field conditions and availability
This systematic approach ensures that the club always has the necessary equipment and field space to support its programs effectively.
Community Outreach and Player Recruitment
The HRLC places a strong emphasis on community engagement and player recruitment. Some key initiatives include:
- Participating in community parades
- Promoting the club through school district electronic bulletin boards
- Organizing “Give Lacrosse A Try” clinics
- Encouraging enrollment in fall, winter, and spring programming
These efforts help raise awareness about lacrosse in the community and attract new players to the sport.
Coaching Selection and Development
The HRLC has a structured process for selecting and developing its coaching staff:
- Program Directors (typically the High School Varsity Head Coaches) select coaching staff
- The Board must approve all coaching selections
- Coaches are required to comply with HRLC and current athletic conference guidelines
- Ongoing development and support are provided to ensure high-quality coaching across all levels
This approach ensures that the club maintains a high standard of coaching, benefiting players at all levels of the program.
Fundraising and Sponsorship Strategies
The HRLC employs various strategies to raise funds and secure sponsorships:
- Organizing dine & share events with local restaurants
- Conducting a mandatory club fundraiser (e.g., World’s Finest Chocolates)
- Planning and executing special events
- Reaching out to local and national businesses for sponsorship opportunities
These diverse fundraising efforts help support the club’s operations and keep participation costs manageable for families.
Social Media and Online Presence
The HRLC recognizes the importance of maintaining a strong online presence. The Marketing & Social Committee Head is responsible for:
- Managing the club’s Facebook and Instagram accounts
- Regularly posting updates about club activities and achievements
- Engaging with the community through social media platforms
- Using online channels to promote events and recruit new players
An active social media presence helps the club stay connected with its members and the broader community, enhancing its visibility and impact.
Player Development and Progression
The HRLC is committed to developing players at all levels. The club’s approach includes:
- Age-appropriate training and competition
- Clear pathways for player progression
- Opportunities for players to move between teams based on skill development
- Regular assessment of player abilities and potential
This focus on player development ensures that each athlete has the opportunity to reach their full potential within the sport.
Safety and Risk Management
The HRLC prioritizes player safety and risk management through several measures:
- Conducting background checks on all coaches and volunteers
- Ensuring proper equipment and field conditions
- Adhering to safety guidelines set by governing bodies
- Providing access to necessary facilities, including restrooms, during practices and games
These safety measures help create a secure environment for all participants in the club’s programs.
Communication Channels and Member Engagement
Effective communication is crucial for the HRLC’s success. The club utilizes various channels to keep members informed and engaged:
- Email notifications for important updates and meetings
- Social media posts for real-time information and event promotion
- Regular board meetings open to active members in good standing
- A club website serving as a central information hub
These diverse communication channels ensure that all members have access to important information and can stay involved with club activities.
Continuous Improvement and Feedback
The HRLC is committed to continuous improvement of its programs and operations. Some key aspects of this commitment include:
- Regular review of club policies and procedures
- Seeking feedback from players, parents, and coaches
- Analyzing program outcomes and making data-driven decisions
- Staying updated on best practices in youth lacrosse development
This focus on improvement helps the club adapt to changing needs and maintain high standards in all aspects of its operations.
Collaboration with Local Schools and Organizations
The HRLC recognizes the importance of working closely with local schools and organizations. This collaboration involves:
- Coordinating with Huntley High School for program alignment
- Partnering with local middle schools to introduce lacrosse
- Engaging with other community sports organizations
- Participating in local events to promote lacrosse
These collaborative efforts help integrate the club into the broader community and create a supportive environment for the sport’s growth.
Our Board
Board of Directors
Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club holds monthly board meetings. Active members in good standing of the club are welcome to attend board meetings. Please contact the board Secretary to confirm the month’s meeting time and location.
Dan Pupich
President
President – Position Responsibilities
President
- Calls to order business meetings of the Board of Directors and the General Meeting of the General Committee.
- Serves as official member of all committees.
- In instances where disciplinary measures appear appropriate or are recommended, the President will convene a special meeting of the Board of Directors.
- Shall be authorized to arbitrate all matters.
- In the case of a tie, the President shall cast the deciding vote.
- The President, and/or Treasurer shall have power to sign all checks and bank withdrawals.
- Any expense must be approved by the Board.
- The President, or designate from current BOD, is required to attend all scheduled HRLC meetings.
Sherri Baumley
Treasurer
Treasurer – Position Responsibilites
Treasurer
- Receives commitment checks from players.
- Collects and disburses funds as operational necessity dictates.
- Manages bank accounts as necessary.
- Keeps records of receipts and expenditures of the HRLC.
- Renders statement of financial condition on a monthly basis.
- Creates annual budget to be approved by the Board of Directors.
- Assists the President in his duties.
- Maintains a key to the P.O. box, and distributes mail accordingly.
Open Position
Field and Equipment Director
Field and Equipment Director – Position Responsibilities
Field and Equipment Director
- Responsible for securing field space for indoor practice, outdoor practice, and games.
- Must ensure game fields are properly marked for all divisions that will be playing
- Responsible for the inventory, storage, and movement of all field, player, and coaching equipment including making recommendations to the Board on any equipment that needs to be replaced.
- Works with the coaches to ensure each team has a field coordinator that will set up and tear down the game field when their team is the home team.
- Ensure fields and practice areas are equipped with all necessary equipment including access to restrooms.
Ryan Felde
Director Boys Program Development
Todd Hendricks
Vice President
Vice President – Position Responsibilities
Vice-President
- In the absence of the President, the Vice-President shall be acting President.
- Work directly with the Boys and Girls Program Directors and the Board.
- Shall perform other such duties as from time to time may be assigned by the President or the Board of Directors.
- Chairs the Disciplinary Committee as it pertains to lacrosse.
- All equipment needs must be submitted in writing to the Board for budget approval.
- Manages volunteers necessary for duties such as announcers, time keepers, stats keepers, trainers etc.
- Propose budget expenses that directly relate to field or game day equipment.
- Receives and records player and coach/member (see article IV) ejections.
Samantha Merritt
Secretary
Secretary – Position Responsibilities
Secretary
- Notifies the Board of Directors of Board meetings and regular meetings both as determined by the President. Notifies the members of regular meetings via the mail, e-mail or local newspaper.
- Responsible for registration and notification. The secretary the web master for the HRLC home page.
- Coordinates and maintains all HRLC correspondence within and outside the HRLC.
- Shall maintain a copy of the Bylaws for any member requesting said Bylaws.
- Coordinates and records all background checks.
Kristi Gregorio
Marketing & Social Committee Head
Marketing & Social Committee Head – Position Responsibilities
Marketing & Social Committee Head
- Community awareness – promote Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club in various ways including but not limited to community parades, school district electronic bulletin boards, Give Lacrosse A Try clinics; encourage enrollment in fall, winter and spring programming.
- Fundraising to include Dine & Share events with local restaurants, club mandatory fundraiser (World’s Finest Chocolates), special events, etc.
- Sponsors – connect with local and national businesses for sponsorships
- Social Media (Facebook & Instagram)
Open Position
Director Girls Program Development
Program Director – Position Responsibilities
Program Co-Directors – Boys and Girls
- The Program Co-Directors will also be the Huntley High School Varsity Head Coach or appointed and approved by the Board.
- Responsible for selecting coaching staff with approval by the Board.
- Manages and coaches teams within the group in compliance with HRLC and current athletic conference governing body guidelines and develops players and coaches.
- Responsible for the conduct and sportsmanship of his/her coaches, players and players’ parents and fans during scheduled games.
- Must notify the board of any disciplinary problems or injuries that involve the members (see article IV) of the HRLC.
- Responsible for communications with Secretary for dissemination of information to the parents as it pertains to schedules, notices, newsletters, etc.
For Parents
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Parents can play many roles in sports: current or former athlete, coach, fan, motivator, role model or critic. A few studies have shown that family members may influence an athlete’s involvement and achievement in sport more than coaches. Parents also are the first and most critical agents for socializing sports.
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PARENTS AND ATHLETES
Parents and athletes need to manage their SportsEngine accounts to ensure they get the most out of their Huntley Raiders Lacrosse Club experience during each sporting season. With their accounts properly configured, athletes and their families will receive communications according to their preferences and be able to complete registrations more efficiently. SportsEngine has created a Team Management Guide for Parents and Athletes that will help our members with frequently asked questions about our website and mobile app.
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ESSENTIAL PARENT HOW-TO’S
Adding an additional guardian
In many instances, more than one parent or guardian needs to be in the loop with a child’s sports life. Using the mobile app, you can add additional guardians to an account. Guardians can 1) View games and events 2) RSVP to games and events 3) Send and receive messages to coaches and team members 4) participate in team chat
Adding a Mobile Phone
Once you’ve created your account, add your mobile phone so you can receive text messages from your team manager or coach.
Enabling Text Messaging
Now that you have your mobile phone on your account, make sure you enable text messaging and any other notifications.
Following a Team on the SportsEngine Mobile App
Are you a family friend, grandparent or fan that wants to follow a specific team on the SportsEngine platform? Here is a quick guide to follow teams on the mobile app.
Forwarding Athlete Messages
Do you need a second parent, other family member or nanny to get messages about schedule changes or game times? Add a second email address to forward all communications.
Sending a Message
Do you need to send a question to your team manager or another parent about a ride? Follow these instructions on how to send messages using the mobile app.
RSVP to Game or Event
Coaches and team managers need to know if you are going to able to attend a game or practice. You can easily RSVP using the mobile application.
Team Management Guide for Parents & Athletes
Is your team using SportsEngine Team Management to manage RSVPs, schedules, and communication? This article will provide you with everything you need to know for a successful season!
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