NEWS RELEASE
September 4, 2006

ROOKS MAY FORGO 2007 SEASON

Team Considering Leave of Absence From NPSL 

The Chico Rooks Board of Directors announced today that the organization may request a one year leave of absence from the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) for the 2007 season.

The Rooks, established in 1993 have been committed to both providing the North Valley affordable, quality family entertainment and working closely with the youth of the community.  “This is a real difficult decision for us”, said Rooks GM Mitch Esparza, “we are proud of what we have accomplished on and off the field over the last 14 years but it is becoming more and more difficult for us to sustain the organization.”  Esparza went on to add that having a year off would give the organization time to restructure.

Esparza said that the Board outlined three underlying reasons for considering the request for a leave of absence from the NPSL next year.  First, although fan support has been relatively good, it has not been sufficient to make the team viable.  Whether it is soccer, baseball or basketball, the North Valley appears to struggle to consistently support teams at a professional level.  “The overall support from the business community in regards to sponsorships and the coverage by the local media have been exceptional, but ultimately there must be people in the stands to sustain a team,” said Esparza, “we cannot continue unless attendance improves.”  

Secondly, although the Rooks have found a ‘home’ at the soccer specific stadium on the Chico State campus, there are still several issues that have hampered the Rooks attempts to enhance the venue and improve attendance.  Rick Sorenson, the Chico Rooks’ CSU liaison, said the primary issues with the venue are the denial by the University to allow the Rooks to sell beer and wine at their home games, general maintenance of field during the Rooks playing season and the availability of the stadium due to conflicts with the University.  “All of these issues have had a major impact on our ability to improve attendance and provide an attractive product.  It is unfortunate we have not been allowed the same opportunities and privileges that have lead to the success of both the Chico Heat and Outlaws” said Sorenson.

Finally, after 14 years, the individuals involved in the operation and administration of the team are showing signs of fatigue.  “There is a huge amount of effort that goes into putting a professionally run team on the field,” said Rooks head coach David Stahl. The Chico Rooks administration and coaching staff, unlike their counterparts in the major leagues (Major League Soccer) that are well paid professionals, are all volunteers.  “Due to the efforts of many dedicated individuals, the Rooks have been one of the more successful soccer clubs in the US,” said Stahl, “however, at some point in time the organization needs to find committed replacements for some of those individuals or generate enough money to hire paid administrators and coaches.”

Esparza indicated the Board would have to decide if they are going field a team for the 2007 season or request a one year leave of absence before the NPSL Annual General Meeting to be held in October. 

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