March 10, 2010

Hard to believe that the middle of the WEVA 2009-2010 season is already here. My name is John Hughes and I can't believe I'm starting my 17th year as your commissioner. Please feel free to call me at the region office. Regular office hours are from 8:00AM-5:00PM. The office phone does have a voice mail box and your calls will be answered so please leave your name and number. The office e-mail is wevajohn@rochester.rr.com

The WEVA web site has received a major face lift with features and updates being added continually in every attempt to keep all members advised to the happening and services of the Region. A new section has been added called FAQ (frequently asked questions) and is added to very often, this will save time waiting for contact with Region office. E-mail me with all new questions and I will reply. You may see your question on the site.

The on-line registration system is now in its sixth year and continues to improve. Last year we added electronic signatures, background checks as well as all other forms. WEVA still requires the Driver ID #'s to be entered, but the need for the signed waivers to be kept in the region office has been eliminated. The registration database is on-line and you are now able to update your information throughout the year. Some of you are still using your e-mail address as your user name; I request that you change that to something easier to remember. Don't forget to write down your username and password as you need them to renew your membership!

Last year we were very pleased to award both girls and boys college scholarships for $500 each to seniors going on to college. We will continue to do this as long as the funds hold out and we have applicants to receive the awards. Please donate what you can to the Gary Adler scholarship fund. If all members donated $1 dollar each year, we would be able to fund the scholarships and even increase the number of recipients.

During last season the board of directors has changed the way of getting things done. We have reduced the board back to 9 members and are now directing the region from committees. Please contact your representatives about being involved with the committees; our goal this season is to have at least one representative per club on one of these committees. The Buffalo Niagara Court System (BNCC) in West Seneca (the home of Niagara Frontier) has had another good year and has given many opportunities for juniors to play in our region. This year’s WEVA Girls bid tournament will be held there. The Armory in Rochester will no longer be the home for our sport courts, but a new location is being worked on. Anyone with ideas for their use, please give me a call. Congratulations to all athletes and clubs who participated in post season events last season and USA Nationals, representing WEVA this past year. All age groups were represented last year and each made our region proud.

Last year we set an all time record for members, of which 80% were juniors. Please thank our club directors and coaches for providing this opportunity to participate in our great sport. Volleyball is one of those sports we can participate in for many years. USA volleyball has members well into their senior years.

Please support your region by purchasing your molten balls and products from the region store. If you need assistance, please contact me at the Region office.

Thank you and have a great season!

John Hughes