Letter from the Executive Director (3/21)

BRSC Letter – March 21, 2020

Update re: coronavirus situation

Members,

I am proud of the resilience and flexibility with which our soccer community is responding to the many challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic. Our membership is strong. I know you are all doing what is right to protect your family during times such as these.
As a small business, the Board of Directors of Baton Rouge Soccer and I are committed to ensuring the viability of our club and our members as we navigate this evolving situation.

I think all of us would agree that soccer is not the most important priority right now. There are much more important and vital issues and challenges being addressed and navigated by our national, state, and local leaders.

But as to soccer, NO ONE should be playing matches on ANY soccer fields at least through April 13. This is a date that has been set by the Louisiana Soccer Association as a mandatory shut-down of all activities. At that time, we will reevaluate the situation and determine the appropriate next steps. I will keep you updated throughout the coming weeks.

We are diligently examining our Club finances, possible refunds, credits, and/or alternative programming for our players and families. We have not yet made decisions, but the Board is considering all options to continue to run an organization that meets the needs of Baton Rouge’s soccer community for today, tomorrow, and the still-unfolding future.

I know you will have questions about when we might resume regular operations and our club’s next steps. I want to reassure you that it is still too early to know what we all can expect. Of course, we continue to hope for a prompt return to normalcy.

The reality is the number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow in Louisiana. It is imperative we remain vigilant in each of our efforts to reduce its spread. Based on the latest guidance from the CDC and the Louisiana Department of Health, you should:

• Stay home if you or someone in your household is sick.
• Avoid social gathering in groups of more than ten people.
• Avoid eating or drinking in restaurants or food courts. Utilize drive-thru, pick up, or delivery options.
• Continue to practice good hygiene (wash hands frequently).
• Practice social distancing.

You are our greatest strength and our greatest resource. We stand arm to arm with you as we navigate these challenges. But rest assured, our great nation will emerge from this.

And one day – hopefully not too far in the future – we will once again play the beautiful game.

I will be providing you with ongoing updates in the days ahead. My thoughts are with each of you.

Louie Smothermon