We'd just moved to Fairfax and were unaware until last minute of the local Soccer Club that Roger ran. He was President, Field Maintainer, Registrations Administrator, Scheduler, Referee all rolled in one. We called after the season started and teams had been created, fearing we were too late, pleading for him to allow our daughter to participate. Without hesitation he said, "Not a problem, we'd love to have her - have her come down to the fields and look for Coach...." This gracious and warm interaction left an impression on my wife and I. It embodied what we came to learn was the small town way of handling such things.
A few years later, when I succeeded Roger As FFSC coordinator, and encountered folks who wanted to sign their kids up for soccer AFTER we'd created teams, and realizing what havoc it can create on the whole operation, I realized just how big a deal it was for Roger to have allowed my daughter in and had an even greater appreciation and respect for the man. I found myself emulating Roger's laid back, kind, and warm approach.
I've always been thankful and appreciative of his trust and faith in bestowign the responsibiity of continuing such a great community resource such as the Soccer Club and was committed to upkeeping the small town ideals i'd learned through his example. Thank you Roger for all wisdom and enrichment you bestowed upon me - whether you knew it or not.
Dan Banach
