Why are schedules not out in August when teams begin to practice?
Scheduling begins in January to secure pool times for the league. The pools are not always forthcoming with their schedules. Some pools will not schedule events for the fall until the summer. Others require fees to be paid before the request. Every pool requires a variety of paperwork to be completed in addition to Pool Insurance Certificate.
Besides getting pool time, we have to wait and see how many teams we will have before developing a full schedule. Rosters are not due until the last week of August. This allows our schools to recruit players from their respective schools. This will impact whether a be school is one team or two for several of our groups. Typically, a family can expect games to be played between the weekend after Labor Day to the first weekend of November.
Why are the schedules not reflecting homecoming, SAT/ACT, etc.?
The schedule is built with some forgiveness to some homecoming events, when possible. As for ACT/SAT, the league understands the importance of these tests, but also recognizes the state of Colorado offers the SAT free of charge in the spring semester.
Why are the rosters not complete in August?
Rosters are due to the League by the last Friday of August. This allows our schools to recruit players that are not club players to the teams. The point of the league is to grow the sport of water polo. In order to grow the sport of water polo, schools need time for recruiting. Most schools are not back in session until the middle of August. This allows for 2 weeks of recruiting through activity fairs, announcements, etc.
Who makes up the board?
The board is made up of 5 volunteers who each serve a 4 year term. A board member may select to step down at any time. A board member may also be elected to serve an additional term, if the person wishes to continue service on the board.
Are the board members voted or appointed?
The initial board was appointed by those who started the league back in 2018. Open board positions are announced to member teams for nominations. Those interested in becoming a board member are encouraged to submit a brief letter of interest to the league president and board. The member teams elect directors by a majority vote.
Does the board represent each school or district?
No, the board is made up of volunteers. The board is only 5 members. The current board has one director from Colorado Springs and four directors from the Denver Metro area.
What is the Board’s role?
The Board’s role is to uphold the rules set forth by the charter. They also settle any disputes that are brought to their attention and act as voice for the expansion of water polo for high schools in Colorado.
How were the rules determined?
Rules were determined in the initial set up of the league. These rules govern the league as a whole. Many of the rules were adopted from the Utah League, and then modified to fit the uniqueness of our Colorado League. The rules are periodically reviewed and updated with recommendations from member teams and acceptance from the board.
Playing rules are set by USA Water Polo, with a few modifications coming from the NCAA Water Polo rulebook.
How are finances managed?
The league charges each team a set fee for the season. In addition, the league searches for grants from other non-profits for support. The money is used to pay for pool rentals, referee fees, insurance, and other operational costs.
The league Treasurer manages the books and discloses the budgets and current finances to the coaches/teams at every meeting.
How is the money earned used by the league?
Monies earned, whether through dues, grants or fundraisers, are spent on the growth and maintenance of league. The President, along with the advisement of the Board, determine how the funds will be spent. The money will pay for insurance, fees, maintenance, etc of the league.
Money collected through fundraising efforts stays with the league. Fundraisers are conducted to support new teams coming to the league, expansion efforts, advertising, operating costs, etc.
Money earned through grants are specifically earmarked for various activities dictated by the grant. There is no other option for using this money outside the parameters of the grant.
Money earned through team dues are used for referee fees and pool rentals.
How are divisions determined?
There are two divisions, and division entry will be determined by each coach/team. Division entry can be changed annually.
Is CHSAA being discussed?
CHSAA recognition is actively discussed, and the League is taking steps to align itself with CHSAA regulations. At this time, we do not have enough teams from around the state to petition it as a sport.
How does the League communicate to the players and families?
The League relies upon the coaches and team representatives to communicate to families and players. Each head coach and any additional team representative(s) identified by the head coach will be required to attend General League meetings. All information should be communicated from the League to families through the team representative and/or coach.
Social media accounts help push out notifications, changes, and promotion of the League as a whole.