[IAM22]

As parents and fans on this board, I don't know that we can answer the questions you put forth, regarding grades, discipline and attendance. I have no doubt our coaching staff could in a heartbeat, if the KYMSFA asked for it. (I know our great team moms were scrambling to get every piece of documentation they could needed to make sure they had it for the tournament. Additionally, I can't think of 1 parent that wouldn't likely pony up a report card, if asked. ) I am confident, and rest assured, our organization is not out to "steal the middle school championship" by bringing in a bunch of out of district delinquents or superathletes with poor grades to play for us. No one in the organization is that desparate and I think most of our parents would agree, that we don't really have any "Stars" on our teams that have no future but football. We do however have a TON of talent across the board on the 8th and 7th grade KYMSFA contenders. Union Raiders play as a team, rather than a superstar with a supporting cast of extras.

Again, I can't address your questions as a fan/parent, but maybe we think of the Union organization as mulitple teams run independently, according to the rules of the leagues they compete in. As I noted in a previous post, there is no mixing of the teams to "cherry pick" players. Just observing our coaches and I see no ulterior motive or need for glory from any of them. They are volunteers and a pretty great, easy going buch of guys that would have no reason to "cheat" or work outside the lines. They all know it would tarnish anything they have accomplished as well as possibly taint the Ryle program in the future. (not proof, but observations)

The Union Raiders are a great alternative to the Boone Co PeeWee League and they had a lot of success last year. It attacted a lot of attention due to the fact that all the players played in games, not on the sidelines, and the team won, a lot!. That is why there is an "alternate" team in our organization. A lot of interest in a winning organization where the kids actually get to play some with kids their own age rather than a mix of 7th/8th where the younger kids don't get to play. Who wouldn't want their kid to play with other kids in their neighborhood and have fun doing it?

Just my thoughts, for what they are worth. I can see your point, there could be questions, I am just confident in our organization and they could be answered if needed.

Good LUCK to all and Go Raiders!!!!!

When you have try outs you only pick the kids that can play for the select team...I mean 8th grade team. That is how they all play. If you are not good enough you are put on the "JV" team...7th and 8th team..not middle school team.

The 7th grade team is a try out select team also.. that is how they all play. If not good enough you are put on the "JV" 7th and 8th grade team that plays in a youth league.

This is why their rosters are small for their middle school teams.