August 27, 2003 - In June the position of State Youth Referee Administrator (SYRA) opened up with the resignation of Marc Lamoureux from the post. Lamoureux worked diligently through the winter and provided valuable guidance during the hectic recertification schedule of 2003. His decision to step down created an opportunity which the MSRC and Mass Youth Soccer are pleased will be seized by John Utter.
Appointed as the first State Assignor Coordinator of Massachusetts in 2002, Utter created the framework in which the MSRC has educated and certified over 150 referee assignors in the 2003 soccer year. He opened up bi-directional communication lines with individuals who interact with developing referees on a weekly basis: assignors have received pointers and information from the MSRC and have provided recommendations for those seeking advancement. In addition Utter excelled in his role of lead assignor of the 2003 State Cup.
The state is fortunate to have John step forward into the role of SYRA. His leadership, professionalism, and capabilities will undoubtedly prove to be a great match with the varied tasks associated with youth referee development. With a continued emphasis on technology he will help the MSRC provide quality services to Massachusetts referees and to the state organizations, leagues, and towns in which they work.
Coupled with its appointment of Utter as the SYRA, the Board of Directors of Mass Youth Soccer recommended that Brian Treanor and Derek Ambrozaitis support the SYRA, providing assistance as needed. Both Treanor and Ambrozaitis are USSF Referee Assessors and each have helped in administrative capacities, Treanor as the Referee Coordinator for the Middlesex Youth Soccer League and Ambrozaitis as an Area Referee Administrator in service of Coastal Youth Soccer League.
Please congratulate and extend best wishes to John Utter, Brian Treanor, and Derek Ambrozaitis and provide them your support in their new roles.