The FIHL strives to be everything to everybody but as with most organizations, sometimes we come up short and people are not happy about something that affects them directly. You can liken this to people who don't mind law enforcement officials until they get charged with an offense personally. Recently, the league was questioned about a ruling and who was on the board and what rights they had to pass down punishment, and other powers. The backlash came as a surprise to many as it came from one of the original founders of the FIHL. He had participated in the establishment of the framework of rules that would become the league constitution. The FIHL is not Mark Taylor, nor is Mark Taylor the FIHL. It is not the Ratz or Kingfishers. It is all of us that are in this together.
If we want this league to survive the test of time and be able to pass it on to the kids up and coming, we damn well better police ourselves and ensure it is something we can all be proud of. The "new guys" think this league is the cat's ass. They are thankful to have a place where they can play and have fun, meet new people and form new friendships.
This morning Justin Sweeney sent an e-mail to Jack MacNeill of the Ratz who was hurt in our game Monday night in St. Andrews. He wanted to show his heartfelt sympathy about what happened and wanted to wish him all the best. This is what this league SHOULD be about.
We all need to think about that.
Just to reiterate what the purpose of this league is, here is a word for word summation taken from the league constitution.
PURPOSE:
To establish and operate a social/recreational hockey league in the Eastern Charlotte County area. The recreational league is open to all players 19 years of age and over. This league has been formed for the enjoyment, exercise, participation of its members. Its members are expected to exemplify sportsmanship, and conduct themselves in a manner, such that they will not be penalized. However in the heat of competition, incidents will occur. For this reason it is necessary to highlight the following rules under which the league operations.
FIRSTLY, LET’S ALL REMEMBER THAT THE FIHL IS ABOUT THE LOVE OF THE GAME. THERE ARE NO NHL SCOUTS WAITING IN THE WINGS. PLAY HARD BUT FAIR AND HAVE FUN.
CONCEPT STATEMENT:
The FIHL is intended to be a social/recreational league to provide enjoyment, exercise and a chance to network with fellow members. It must stress that this is a fun league and while each player and team is encouraged to play to the best of their ability, the league discourages the concept of win at all cost.
The league is open to all players 19 years of age and over and is a non-contact league. The league is for players who display good sportsmanship, team play and respect for others.
The directors of the league will be composed of representatives from each team and they have committed to dedicate their time and effort to manage the league in a fair manner.
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