NEWS RELEASE
October 30, 2006

ROOKS OPT TO SIT OUT 2007 SEASON
Team To Request One-Year Leave From NPSL

After providing the North Valley with affordable, quality, family entertainment for 14 consecutive years, the Chico Rooks Board of Directors has decided to forgo the 2007 season and request a one year leave of absence from the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL).  “It was a real difficult decision for us,” said Rooks General Manager Mitch Esparza, “but unfortunately we have not been able to resolve issues facing the organization. 

In early September the Rooks issued a press release that the Board was considering a leave of absence for the 2007 season.  Since then Esparza said the Board has worked very hard to find ways to salvage the 2007 season and prepared what they believed to be a viable business plan but have been unable to mitigate two critical issues, staffing and venue enhancement.

“Public interest has been great, but we just were not able to find all the individuals we needed to fill key roles in the organization to move forward by the end of this month,” said Rooks head coach David Stahl, “there is a huge amount of effort that goes into putting a professionally run team on the field and without the proper staffing our product would suffer.”  Stahl added that it is difficult to fill demanding positions because unlike their counterparts in the major leagues (Major League Soccer) that are well paid professionals, the Rooks organization is primarily staffed by dedicated volunteers.

The Rooks also determined that the prospects for enhancing their playing venue at the soccer stadium on the Chico State campus in the near future were limited.  “The University stadium could be the perfect venue to increase attendance and thereby gain financial viability,” said Rick Sorenson the Rooks’ University liaison, “however, it is impossible for us to do this without being able to offer the public a more enjoyable experience in regards to scheduling, parking, concessions and field maintenance.”

Esparza said the one-year leave of absence would give the Rooks more time to restructure, fill key administrative roles and hold discussions with the University regarding enhancement of the venue. He also emphasized that the organization is not folding and will continue to do camps and clinics while being involved in community events.  “ We are very grateful for the incredible support we have received over the last 14 years from the business community, media and fans,” said Esparza, “and the Rooks fully intend to be back on the pitch in 2008 and we hope we can count on their continued support.”

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