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Surrey Metro Soccer Association - Discrimination
- Thread starter Zaurrini
- Start date
This has been an ongoing issue with Surrey Soccer and not the first I have heard of it. It has been covered quite heavily in the Indo-Canadian Newspapers.
Not sure if it is discrimination, or just the old guard not wanting to let go.
Not sure if it is discrimination, or just the old guard not wanting to let go.
Hands of Stone
New Member
I think this guy is from Surrey FC organization, perhaps NextToGod or Coach could give us more info.
I think the issue was, that he was not able to wear mittens at the execitive.
Too bad that this issue had to go this far.
hos
I think the issue was, that he was not able to wear mittens at the execitive.
Too bad that this issue had to go this far.
hos
PARENTS OF SOCCER PLAYERS PROTEST AGAINST 'SYSTEMIC DISCRIMINATION' IN SURREY METRO SOCCER DISTRICT
Furious parents of Surrey United 94 players have in an email to the big guns of the Surrey Soccer Association protested against the apparent systemic discrimination that Indo-Canadians are facing.
Copies of the email were also sent to Attorney General Wally Oppal and Surrey MLA Harry Bains.
Last week in this paper's lead story, Indira Prahst, Instructor of Race and Ethnic Relations, Department of Sociology, Langara College, Vancouver, had in her article, "Government must look into perceptions of systemic discrimination in Surrey Metro soccer district," exposed the controversial state of affairs prevailing in Surrey.
The parents in their email said they had decided "to immediately remove our players from any training/practices or games with the current Under 13 Surrey United Gold team, until such time there is a fair and objective inquiry into these issues by BC Soccer or a 3rd party."
The families are those of Brennan Hoffman, Aman Grewal, Amrit Hothi, Amar Liddar, Conor Kelley, Ronnie Johal, Patrick Sihota, Nathan Saran, Harpreet Samra, Ravdeep Atwal and Gary Dosanjh.
Here's part of their unedited protest email:
We have read Roy Mitchell's email regarding the justification for denying a request for an Under 14 Metro Team at Whalley next year. We have also taken into consideration the circumstances leading up to the SMSA (Surrey Metro Soccer Association) decision. As parents of children on this team, we are deeply disappointed by the "dirty politics" influencing the decision to deny an under 14 metro team at Whalley. As thus, we are exercising our democratic right to PROTEST this decision as a unified parent group until such time there is an appeal heard by BC Soccer …
We dispute Roy Mitchell's email regarding the reasons for denying such a request on the following grounds:
There was much historic precedence to support an request from Whalley for a select team, especially even when a particular club does not have a team at that age club.
We dispute SMSA's argument that this was the basis for the denial.
It is our view, that this was regretfully another form of intimidation to punish a group of people who have left either Surrey Youth or Surrey United as the board members from these clubs, seem to think they have an arbitrarily right to decide or influence all issues.
We dispute SMSA's view that this process was fair and objective
Several of the boards members, from Guildford, Surrey United and Surrey Youth were fully aware of this group's ability to field a competitive team at the Under 14 Metro level.
* 15 out of 15 players participated at the highest level (gold) of play this past season, with a majority of the group coming from the successful Surrey * The following players (conor kelly, brennan hoffman, amar lidder, ronnie johal, ravdeep atwal, aman grewal, amrit hothi, baltej badhan, tevan sandhu, patrick sihota) were members of the Under 12 Coastal and Provincial Cup Champion Team.
* Many of these players had also won the provincial B cup, the previous year, while playing a year up.
* All of these player's families had committed and signed registration forms for Whalley Soccer prior to the district meeting.
The board was fully aware of the success and caliber of this group in the past three years, and we feel the board's position on this issue (as per Mr. Mitchell's email) is baseless
Deadline for submitting application for metro
* Though, we cannot confirm any other dates (as none of us sit on the SMSA Board and its information is always discreet), the only date publicly announced for submitting Metro Teams for the upcoming 2007/2008 was last Wednesday.
* Traditionally, this decision to place metro teams is always in late March or early April and we are further advised that the official Metro list is due much later in July. Generally, no opposition is warranted for teams or groups with the successful history or caliber of players our group exhibits.
* On initial communication with several individuals who tried to assist us, Mr. Larry Laws of Whalley Soccer Club stating " that the only deadline to meet regarding submitting a select team request was last Wednesday."
* Mr. Laws also took the initiative to contact Tom Duncan, and suggest if he could "somehow find a solution with the group remaining at Surrey United"
* Teri Grewal , on behalf of the parents forwarded a comprehensive package that addressed all perceived concerns that may arise, and was informed that at the outset that "roy and tom" will be opposing this vehemently and emails/phone calls from board members were already circulating. At first, the opposition centered around "potential poaching by Whalley." No timelines or other reasons were ever stated until now.
* Mr. Grewal, believes Mr. Laws and Bob Sperling are knowledgeable and competent club and district board members, and as such, believes, "they would not have even entertained taking such a request to the District level, if an earlier deadline had not been met."
* Further, after receiving all documents from Mr. Grewal, Mr. Laws communicated with several board members prior to the meeting, including the chair Chris Paige, and at no time was there ever any indication, that "there ever was" or that a deadline had been missed.
As such, we once question the SMSA boards rational, that Whalley did not submit this request in due time and we question if "such a deadline" even existed. As such we once again, feel Mr. Mitchell's email regarding deadlines is a very questionable and weak argument.
In taking into consideration all of the particulars and relevant information, it is quite obvious how the SMSA board came to their decision.
* It is apparent that the opposition to this request was driven by personal animosity not rational thinking or objectivity.
* This decision was not about the issues, or the deadline date, or the caliber of the team, but rather board members being consumed with their hatred towards the individuals involved in this process.
* In reading Mr. Mitchell's email, we feel he is only insulting our intelligence, as it is a "typical cover up" of his historic true feelings to harm, discredit, show bias or punish those who disagree with him.
* We are also very disturbed and offended by the active role taken by Tom Duncan of Surrey United (as attached email), in lobbying to oppose this request, especially since he is a SMSA board member
* We feel the involvement of these two individuals is a conflict of interest and impedes objectivity in deciding this issue.
* It is quite clear, this decision was based on retribution to those who challenge the authority of some in the Surrey Soccer Community and an opportunity for those individuals to exert their power to "constrain" others from moving forward in soccer.
Decision by the Parents
* Until now, our parents and players have only showed respect to Mr. Duncan and to the Surrey United logo, which our son's have proudly worn the past 3 years.
* However, in viewing the all of the facts, we, the parents have decided the following
a) We cannot in good faith continue to support Mr. Duncan, and Surrey United, as Mr. Duncan has misused his position on the Metro Board to opposed a group of players from leaving his club
b) We cannot accept the "sugar coated" email justification by Roy Mitchell for the wrongful decision of the SMSA board to deny the Whalley Under 14 Metro request.
c) We cannot accept the neglect by the SMSA board to not investigate the repeat offensive behavior of (the couple) of Guildford Athletic
As such, we take into consideration the feelings of our son's and their desire to play together next year at Whalley. We also believe, this is a time to stand for your principles, and against harassment/bullying in the soccer community. This entire issue is about injustice and we therefore have decided, in PROTEST:
To immediately remove our players from any training/practices or games with the current Under 13 Surrey United Gold team, until such time there is a fair and objective inquiry into these issues by BC Soccer or a 3rd party.
We fully understand that this may result in our children protesting their upcoming Provincial Cup game on March 31, 2007, for which they have worked very hard to defend their provincial championship.
However, we feel the decision to deny our son's to play Under 14 Metro at Whalley next year, is of greater importance during a National Year and we are only demanding a fair and objective panel to oversee this issue.
In closing, we are not asking for any special treatment etc, but only fairness and board members thinking in the interest of kids. Our son's are devoted to the sport of soccer and have spent many years developing their skills. They have already suffered greatly this year, as our coach Sukhi took a year off. They have travelled to many areas in BC, Washington, and Oregon and brought much respect to our club, province and country.
As parents, we ask for your intervention in dealing with this matter with logic and sensitivity. Dirty politics, abuse of process and manipulating the rules have no room in youth sports.
Furious parents of Surrey United 94 players have in an email to the big guns of the Surrey Soccer Association protested against the apparent systemic discrimination that Indo-Canadians are facing.
Copies of the email were also sent to Attorney General Wally Oppal and Surrey MLA Harry Bains.
Last week in this paper's lead story, Indira Prahst, Instructor of Race and Ethnic Relations, Department of Sociology, Langara College, Vancouver, had in her article, "Government must look into perceptions of systemic discrimination in Surrey Metro soccer district," exposed the controversial state of affairs prevailing in Surrey.
The parents in their email said they had decided "to immediately remove our players from any training/practices or games with the current Under 13 Surrey United Gold team, until such time there is a fair and objective inquiry into these issues by BC Soccer or a 3rd party."
The families are those of Brennan Hoffman, Aman Grewal, Amrit Hothi, Amar Liddar, Conor Kelley, Ronnie Johal, Patrick Sihota, Nathan Saran, Harpreet Samra, Ravdeep Atwal and Gary Dosanjh.
Here's part of their unedited protest email:
We have read Roy Mitchell's email regarding the justification for denying a request for an Under 14 Metro Team at Whalley next year. We have also taken into consideration the circumstances leading up to the SMSA (Surrey Metro Soccer Association) decision. As parents of children on this team, we are deeply disappointed by the "dirty politics" influencing the decision to deny an under 14 metro team at Whalley. As thus, we are exercising our democratic right to PROTEST this decision as a unified parent group until such time there is an appeal heard by BC Soccer …
We dispute Roy Mitchell's email regarding the reasons for denying such a request on the following grounds:
There was much historic precedence to support an request from Whalley for a select team, especially even when a particular club does not have a team at that age club.
We dispute SMSA's argument that this was the basis for the denial.
It is our view, that this was regretfully another form of intimidation to punish a group of people who have left either Surrey Youth or Surrey United as the board members from these clubs, seem to think they have an arbitrarily right to decide or influence all issues.
We dispute SMSA's view that this process was fair and objective
Several of the boards members, from Guildford, Surrey United and Surrey Youth were fully aware of this group's ability to field a competitive team at the Under 14 Metro level.
* 15 out of 15 players participated at the highest level (gold) of play this past season, with a majority of the group coming from the successful Surrey * The following players (conor kelly, brennan hoffman, amar lidder, ronnie johal, ravdeep atwal, aman grewal, amrit hothi, baltej badhan, tevan sandhu, patrick sihota) were members of the Under 12 Coastal and Provincial Cup Champion Team.
* Many of these players had also won the provincial B cup, the previous year, while playing a year up.
* All of these player's families had committed and signed registration forms for Whalley Soccer prior to the district meeting.
The board was fully aware of the success and caliber of this group in the past three years, and we feel the board's position on this issue (as per Mr. Mitchell's email) is baseless
Deadline for submitting application for metro
* Though, we cannot confirm any other dates (as none of us sit on the SMSA Board and its information is always discreet), the only date publicly announced for submitting Metro Teams for the upcoming 2007/2008 was last Wednesday.
* Traditionally, this decision to place metro teams is always in late March or early April and we are further advised that the official Metro list is due much later in July. Generally, no opposition is warranted for teams or groups with the successful history or caliber of players our group exhibits.
* On initial communication with several individuals who tried to assist us, Mr. Larry Laws of Whalley Soccer Club stating " that the only deadline to meet regarding submitting a select team request was last Wednesday."
* Mr. Laws also took the initiative to contact Tom Duncan, and suggest if he could "somehow find a solution with the group remaining at Surrey United"
* Teri Grewal , on behalf of the parents forwarded a comprehensive package that addressed all perceived concerns that may arise, and was informed that at the outset that "roy and tom" will be opposing this vehemently and emails/phone calls from board members were already circulating. At first, the opposition centered around "potential poaching by Whalley." No timelines or other reasons were ever stated until now.
* Mr. Grewal, believes Mr. Laws and Bob Sperling are knowledgeable and competent club and district board members, and as such, believes, "they would not have even entertained taking such a request to the District level, if an earlier deadline had not been met."
* Further, after receiving all documents from Mr. Grewal, Mr. Laws communicated with several board members prior to the meeting, including the chair Chris Paige, and at no time was there ever any indication, that "there ever was" or that a deadline had been missed.
As such, we once question the SMSA boards rational, that Whalley did not submit this request in due time and we question if "such a deadline" even existed. As such we once again, feel Mr. Mitchell's email regarding deadlines is a very questionable and weak argument.
In taking into consideration all of the particulars and relevant information, it is quite obvious how the SMSA board came to their decision.
* It is apparent that the opposition to this request was driven by personal animosity not rational thinking or objectivity.
* This decision was not about the issues, or the deadline date, or the caliber of the team, but rather board members being consumed with their hatred towards the individuals involved in this process.
* In reading Mr. Mitchell's email, we feel he is only insulting our intelligence, as it is a "typical cover up" of his historic true feelings to harm, discredit, show bias or punish those who disagree with him.
* We are also very disturbed and offended by the active role taken by Tom Duncan of Surrey United (as attached email), in lobbying to oppose this request, especially since he is a SMSA board member
* We feel the involvement of these two individuals is a conflict of interest and impedes objectivity in deciding this issue.
* It is quite clear, this decision was based on retribution to those who challenge the authority of some in the Surrey Soccer Community and an opportunity for those individuals to exert their power to "constrain" others from moving forward in soccer.
Decision by the Parents
* Until now, our parents and players have only showed respect to Mr. Duncan and to the Surrey United logo, which our son's have proudly worn the past 3 years.
* However, in viewing the all of the facts, we, the parents have decided the following
a) We cannot in good faith continue to support Mr. Duncan, and Surrey United, as Mr. Duncan has misused his position on the Metro Board to opposed a group of players from leaving his club
b) We cannot accept the "sugar coated" email justification by Roy Mitchell for the wrongful decision of the SMSA board to deny the Whalley Under 14 Metro request.
c) We cannot accept the neglect by the SMSA board to not investigate the repeat offensive behavior of (the couple) of Guildford Athletic
As such, we take into consideration the feelings of our son's and their desire to play together next year at Whalley. We also believe, this is a time to stand for your principles, and against harassment/bullying in the soccer community. This entire issue is about injustice and we therefore have decided, in PROTEST:
To immediately remove our players from any training/practices or games with the current Under 13 Surrey United Gold team, until such time there is a fair and objective inquiry into these issues by BC Soccer or a 3rd party.
We fully understand that this may result in our children protesting their upcoming Provincial Cup game on March 31, 2007, for which they have worked very hard to defend their provincial championship.
However, we feel the decision to deny our son's to play Under 14 Metro at Whalley next year, is of greater importance during a National Year and we are only demanding a fair and objective panel to oversee this issue.
In closing, we are not asking for any special treatment etc, but only fairness and board members thinking in the interest of kids. Our son's are devoted to the sport of soccer and have spent many years developing their skills. They have already suffered greatly this year, as our coach Sukhi took a year off. They have travelled to many areas in BC, Washington, and Oregon and brought much respect to our club, province and country.
As parents, we ask for your intervention in dealing with this matter with logic and sensitivity. Dirty politics, abuse of process and manipulating the rules have no room in youth sports.
GOVERNMENT MUST LOOK INTO PERCEPTIONS OF SYSTEMIC DISCRIMINATION IN SURREY METRO SOCCER DISTRICT
By INDIRA PRAHST
Instructor of Race and Ethnic Relations, Department of Sociology, Langara College, Vancouver
For the last few years I have heard about the stories of Indo-Canadian players and coaches in Surrey feeling discomfort and the perception of unfair treatment and perceived power dynamics within the Surrey Soccer Association (SSA) which sadly have robbed some kids of experiencing the true spirit of soccer. Recently, I received numerous calls and correspondence about this issue from various coaches which clearly support some of the concerns, and I was asked by some to give voice to this issue.
The intention here is not to make accusations against the SSA (it has four club forms: Surrey Youth, Surrey United, Guilford and Whalley. All four belong to the SSA board that reports to BC Soccer). Rather, it is to simply provide a platform of voices to inform our community about what has been brewing underneath for quite some time. Also, it seems that the threshold of tolerance of unfair treatment has reached its breaking point and some brave Indo-Canadian coaches such as Harj Dhaliwal, Steve Mattoo and Sukhi Sandhu are speaking out on a united front about their experiences in administration, perceptions about lack of upward mobility within coaching and a possible double standard in punishment enforcement which could be interpreted as examples of "systemic discrimination."
Systemic discrimination is very difficult to identify and prove because it is unobtrusive and oftentimes invisible and manifests itself in rules, regulations and procedures which are not always intended to be exclusive. However, what is critical is that these institutional rules produce real consequences of marginalization or exclusion. I wish to expose three examples of how rules have been informally applied and seem to impose certain handicaps on some coaches which seems to be further aggravated by the fact that they are Indo-Canadian.
First, it is important to acknowledge, that tension and perceptions of systemic discrimination within the SSA is not new, and was first exposed two years ago, in an article written by the editor of the Voice, Rattan Mall, on respected Kwantlan College Business professor and coach Harj Dhaliwal, where the SSA refused to accept the results of the election which Dhaliwal won by one vote for the position of chair of the Surrey Metro Soccer Association (which later they granted him with).
Coach Sandhu (who was very involved in this issue at the time) had a lot to say about this in a follow up on what transpired during the year Dhaliwal was chair. Sandhu said that they instituted a rule that you had to be a previous board member to become chair and then they passed a motion on the first day, that no further soccer clubs be permitted. These changes in regulations may be interpreted as systemically discriminatory because the inflicted unfair restrictions (which though difficult to prove as being intentional) had the effect of excluding a racialized minority who in this case, lacked the criteria to be Chair in a subsequent election (because he was not a previous board member).
I recently spoke with Dhaliwal and asked him for his thoughts on this issue and he said, "I really think there are systematic procedures that prevent some Indo-Canadian coaches from achieving upward mobility and nothing has been done to change these rules and procedures." He also talked about the lack of ethnic representation, especially of Indo-Canadians, at the administrative level within the SSA and the attitudes.
It is also important to address the concern over some of the attitudes present within SSA which have been described by some coaches as a "colonial attitude" and in the words of one Indo-Canadian coach: "We are always told what to do and they make us feel like we do not know how to govern soccer." Another well respected soccer coach, recently told me that one member of the SSA said to him, "Take your turbans and go form your club elsewhere." This 'otherizing' and such an attack consisting of derogatory slurs might explain some of the humiliating and patronizing treatment of some Indo-Canadian coaches and possible barriers.
THE GLASS CEILING
A second example of systemic discrimination that some Indo-Canadian coaches are expressing concern about is the "glass ceiling" and the barriers to advance in coaching. One non-Indo-Canadian soccer parent said: "Some of these good coaches, of which many are Indo-Canadian, are not given the opportunity to coach at higher levels."
In speaking with some Indo-Canadian coaches about this, there is a common sentiment that they are being used to do the "dirty work" by recruiting kids into clubs at the lower age group, and then by U13-U14, other non-Indo-Canadian and paid coaches seem to take over and get the gravy.
An example of this is the case of well-respected and qualified coach and community activist Sukhi Sandhu (who worked with a team winning the provincials two years in a row), Sandhu said: "I took a year from off U13 Gold and it was always understood that if I wanted the position the Under 14 Metro team it would be offered to me." Iinstead they just offered him to coach the U13 team. "I feel like I am being used," he added.
Feeling patronized, Sandhu felt that he could no longer trust the management or senior executive offers of Surrey United and decided along with the parents to remove their sons from Surrey United and move as a group to Whalley to get into U14, because according to the manager of Sandhu's team, "the kids love him to be coach". However, according to Sandhu, "it seems that politics does not stop." He said: "I was informed that the Whalley executive have put forth a request to the Surrey Metro board to have an under 14 Metro team, but are now receiving communication that this might be denied at the Board Level" Surrey District Board are the ones who rubber stamp all metro teams.
I just received news an hour before the deadline of this article (on Thursday evening), that the decision made by Surrey Metro last was that "the team of U14 was denied." I was also informed that this decision according to some is "perceived" to be highly suspect and "premeditated," and, unfortunately, pure politics. The manager of the U13 Surrey United team said, "This news is very disappointing because the kids are being punished because of soccer politics."
DOUBLE STANDARD?
Thirdly, some coaches question whether there is a double standard in place in how punishment is enforced. Well respected lawyer and coach Steve Mattoo was recently suspended for four months for "verbal assault" for contesting a 15-year female referee which he and others perceived to be very harsh and he felt that he was unfairly treated because he did not know what information was used to arrive at the suspension decision. Nor was there questioning of people on the sideline (even a parent who was at the game was surprised that he was not asked about the game). Mattoo has challenged this decision through an appeal.
What is disconcerting for Mattoo are the possible motives of the duration of the suspension which seems to be linked to power dynamics within soccer. Mattoo said: "Somehow the process might have been manipulated."
First of all, this period runs during the tryouts for next year's Gold teams, which will affect his ability of being a gold coach next year. Secondly, his team is a major competitive team that takes away from the success of the other club and so it seems that they might have seized an opportunity here with this suspension.
Thirdly, Mattoo said: "The reason they might feel threatened is that I play a leadership role and they may fear that I challenge the status quo, or form an alternative club"
According to coach Sandhu, in regard to this situation, it appears that there seems to be an indirect policy of targeting certain Indo-Canadian coaches who take leadership and who are unfairly treated. When they seek the support or information to help support an investigation, it is difficult to access because of a code of silence."
Here we see the possibility of gradient levels of systemic discrimination that have the effect of excluding some. Thirty minutes before this piece's deadline, I was informed by coach Mattoo that his "leave to appeal the suspension was denied."
Mattoo said these types of suspensions affect the kids' confidence and self-esteem because he's their role model. He noted: "Also, if the kids don't get a replacement coach or one who does not challenge them, they may leave soccer and possibly stray from their path."
Indo-Canadian soccer members are coming together for the common good of our youth in sport to confront these issues by taking action. Firstly, two weeks ago, the Indo-Canadian soccer clubs and its members have decided to take proactive measures to initiate constructive dialogue with the BCSA.
Secondly, the Indo-Canadian Soccer Association members told me that they have very recently contacted renowned human rights firm Arvay Finnlay to pursue these systemic problems that have been experienced by some Indo-Canadians for a number of years.
Also, on Monday, I met with the Attorney General Wally Oppal (on another matter), where I addressed this soccer issue for his input."
He responded, "I have been hearing disturbing comments about racism or acts of racism taking place in youth soccer and I don't know how accurate those allegations are, but I find them disturbing. The fact that so many of them are coming to light, we live in a multicultural society, and whether the people who control soccer like it or not we live in a multicultural society, and I would like to hear more if in fact there is some foundation to the allegations."
In conclusion, let's not overlook the effects of systemic discrimination which has created not only a perception of unfair treatment among Indo-Canadian coaches and players, but it has fueled tension and robbed youth of the spirit of soccer, a sport which is progressive and fosters important life skills for youth to become proper functioning citizens in our multicultural society. While we have come a long way, there is still work to be done.
At the same time, we must also acknowledge that some Indo-Canadian parents, coaches and kids too may be quick to pull the race card. Also, there are many non-Indo-Canadian coaches and members in Surrey Soccer, who strongly support their players and coaches regardless of their ethnicity. Metro Surrey United coach Spiro Pegios said to me: "What I look for in a good player is that they are hardworking and can positively contribute to society."
Last but not least, I must say, there has been respectful cooperation by BC Soccer Association who have been receptive and positively responsive to questions I posed about these issues.
Having provided a platform of a collective voice to expose perceptions of systemic discrimination is a step forward so we can achieve greater unity within diversity and bring back the spirit of soccer for some of the kids.
By INDIRA PRAHST
Instructor of Race and Ethnic Relations, Department of Sociology, Langara College, Vancouver
For the last few years I have heard about the stories of Indo-Canadian players and coaches in Surrey feeling discomfort and the perception of unfair treatment and perceived power dynamics within the Surrey Soccer Association (SSA) which sadly have robbed some kids of experiencing the true spirit of soccer. Recently, I received numerous calls and correspondence about this issue from various coaches which clearly support some of the concerns, and I was asked by some to give voice to this issue.
The intention here is not to make accusations against the SSA (it has four club forms: Surrey Youth, Surrey United, Guilford and Whalley. All four belong to the SSA board that reports to BC Soccer). Rather, it is to simply provide a platform of voices to inform our community about what has been brewing underneath for quite some time. Also, it seems that the threshold of tolerance of unfair treatment has reached its breaking point and some brave Indo-Canadian coaches such as Harj Dhaliwal, Steve Mattoo and Sukhi Sandhu are speaking out on a united front about their experiences in administration, perceptions about lack of upward mobility within coaching and a possible double standard in punishment enforcement which could be interpreted as examples of "systemic discrimination."
Systemic discrimination is very difficult to identify and prove because it is unobtrusive and oftentimes invisible and manifests itself in rules, regulations and procedures which are not always intended to be exclusive. However, what is critical is that these institutional rules produce real consequences of marginalization or exclusion. I wish to expose three examples of how rules have been informally applied and seem to impose certain handicaps on some coaches which seems to be further aggravated by the fact that they are Indo-Canadian.
First, it is important to acknowledge, that tension and perceptions of systemic discrimination within the SSA is not new, and was first exposed two years ago, in an article written by the editor of the Voice, Rattan Mall, on respected Kwantlan College Business professor and coach Harj Dhaliwal, where the SSA refused to accept the results of the election which Dhaliwal won by one vote for the position of chair of the Surrey Metro Soccer Association (which later they granted him with).
Coach Sandhu (who was very involved in this issue at the time) had a lot to say about this in a follow up on what transpired during the year Dhaliwal was chair. Sandhu said that they instituted a rule that you had to be a previous board member to become chair and then they passed a motion on the first day, that no further soccer clubs be permitted. These changes in regulations may be interpreted as systemically discriminatory because the inflicted unfair restrictions (which though difficult to prove as being intentional) had the effect of excluding a racialized minority who in this case, lacked the criteria to be Chair in a subsequent election (because he was not a previous board member).
I recently spoke with Dhaliwal and asked him for his thoughts on this issue and he said, "I really think there are systematic procedures that prevent some Indo-Canadian coaches from achieving upward mobility and nothing has been done to change these rules and procedures." He also talked about the lack of ethnic representation, especially of Indo-Canadians, at the administrative level within the SSA and the attitudes.
It is also important to address the concern over some of the attitudes present within SSA which have been described by some coaches as a "colonial attitude" and in the words of one Indo-Canadian coach: "We are always told what to do and they make us feel like we do not know how to govern soccer." Another well respected soccer coach, recently told me that one member of the SSA said to him, "Take your turbans and go form your club elsewhere." This 'otherizing' and such an attack consisting of derogatory slurs might explain some of the humiliating and patronizing treatment of some Indo-Canadian coaches and possible barriers.
THE GLASS CEILING
A second example of systemic discrimination that some Indo-Canadian coaches are expressing concern about is the "glass ceiling" and the barriers to advance in coaching. One non-Indo-Canadian soccer parent said: "Some of these good coaches, of which many are Indo-Canadian, are not given the opportunity to coach at higher levels."
In speaking with some Indo-Canadian coaches about this, there is a common sentiment that they are being used to do the "dirty work" by recruiting kids into clubs at the lower age group, and then by U13-U14, other non-Indo-Canadian and paid coaches seem to take over and get the gravy.
An example of this is the case of well-respected and qualified coach and community activist Sukhi Sandhu (who worked with a team winning the provincials two years in a row), Sandhu said: "I took a year from off U13 Gold and it was always understood that if I wanted the position the Under 14 Metro team it would be offered to me." Iinstead they just offered him to coach the U13 team. "I feel like I am being used," he added.
Feeling patronized, Sandhu felt that he could no longer trust the management or senior executive offers of Surrey United and decided along with the parents to remove their sons from Surrey United and move as a group to Whalley to get into U14, because according to the manager of Sandhu's team, "the kids love him to be coach". However, according to Sandhu, "it seems that politics does not stop." He said: "I was informed that the Whalley executive have put forth a request to the Surrey Metro board to have an under 14 Metro team, but are now receiving communication that this might be denied at the Board Level" Surrey District Board are the ones who rubber stamp all metro teams.
I just received news an hour before the deadline of this article (on Thursday evening), that the decision made by Surrey Metro last was that "the team of U14 was denied." I was also informed that this decision according to some is "perceived" to be highly suspect and "premeditated," and, unfortunately, pure politics. The manager of the U13 Surrey United team said, "This news is very disappointing because the kids are being punished because of soccer politics."
DOUBLE STANDARD?
Thirdly, some coaches question whether there is a double standard in place in how punishment is enforced. Well respected lawyer and coach Steve Mattoo was recently suspended for four months for "verbal assault" for contesting a 15-year female referee which he and others perceived to be very harsh and he felt that he was unfairly treated because he did not know what information was used to arrive at the suspension decision. Nor was there questioning of people on the sideline (even a parent who was at the game was surprised that he was not asked about the game). Mattoo has challenged this decision through an appeal.
What is disconcerting for Mattoo are the possible motives of the duration of the suspension which seems to be linked to power dynamics within soccer. Mattoo said: "Somehow the process might have been manipulated."
First of all, this period runs during the tryouts for next year's Gold teams, which will affect his ability of being a gold coach next year. Secondly, his team is a major competitive team that takes away from the success of the other club and so it seems that they might have seized an opportunity here with this suspension.
Thirdly, Mattoo said: "The reason they might feel threatened is that I play a leadership role and they may fear that I challenge the status quo, or form an alternative club"
According to coach Sandhu, in regard to this situation, it appears that there seems to be an indirect policy of targeting certain Indo-Canadian coaches who take leadership and who are unfairly treated. When they seek the support or information to help support an investigation, it is difficult to access because of a code of silence."
Here we see the possibility of gradient levels of systemic discrimination that have the effect of excluding some. Thirty minutes before this piece's deadline, I was informed by coach Mattoo that his "leave to appeal the suspension was denied."
Mattoo said these types of suspensions affect the kids' confidence and self-esteem because he's their role model. He noted: "Also, if the kids don't get a replacement coach or one who does not challenge them, they may leave soccer and possibly stray from their path."
Indo-Canadian soccer members are coming together for the common good of our youth in sport to confront these issues by taking action. Firstly, two weeks ago, the Indo-Canadian soccer clubs and its members have decided to take proactive measures to initiate constructive dialogue with the BCSA.
Secondly, the Indo-Canadian Soccer Association members told me that they have very recently contacted renowned human rights firm Arvay Finnlay to pursue these systemic problems that have been experienced by some Indo-Canadians for a number of years.
Also, on Monday, I met with the Attorney General Wally Oppal (on another matter), where I addressed this soccer issue for his input."
He responded, "I have been hearing disturbing comments about racism or acts of racism taking place in youth soccer and I don't know how accurate those allegations are, but I find them disturbing. The fact that so many of them are coming to light, we live in a multicultural society, and whether the people who control soccer like it or not we live in a multicultural society, and I would like to hear more if in fact there is some foundation to the allegations."
In conclusion, let's not overlook the effects of systemic discrimination which has created not only a perception of unfair treatment among Indo-Canadian coaches and players, but it has fueled tension and robbed youth of the spirit of soccer, a sport which is progressive and fosters important life skills for youth to become proper functioning citizens in our multicultural society. While we have come a long way, there is still work to be done.
At the same time, we must also acknowledge that some Indo-Canadian parents, coaches and kids too may be quick to pull the race card. Also, there are many non-Indo-Canadian coaches and members in Surrey Soccer, who strongly support their players and coaches regardless of their ethnicity. Metro Surrey United coach Spiro Pegios said to me: "What I look for in a good player is that they are hardworking and can positively contribute to society."
Last but not least, I must say, there has been respectful cooperation by BC Soccer Association who have been receptive and positively responsive to questions I posed about these issues.
Having provided a platform of a collective voice to expose perceptions of systemic discrimination is a step forward so we can achieve greater unity within diversity and bring back the spirit of soccer for some of the kids.
All I will say about this issue is that it is this:
Many parents and adults RUIN the game for these kids. There is no discrimination at these levels in my opinion. There are agendas. There are personal histories. Due process IS TAKING PLACE. Commenting on any allegations or reacting to any comments only leads to those with their agendas misconstruing things to serve their purpose. This is a sad truth.
Intelligent people who have been asked to comment on these issues at hand always answer in this fashion, "IF these allegations are true, then something needs to be done about it". You see, the key word being IF. Please acknowledge that any discrimination, systemic or deliberate is not easily identified. We are all different with vast life experiences that alter our ability to perceive what is discriminatory or not. However, the issues at hand here with Surrey Metro Board are fairly cut and clear and should produce some clarity at the end of all the crap.
Seriously, some people should stay the hell out of kids sports.
Many parents and adults RUIN the game for these kids. There is no discrimination at these levels in my opinion. There are agendas. There are personal histories. Due process IS TAKING PLACE. Commenting on any allegations or reacting to any comments only leads to those with their agendas misconstruing things to serve their purpose. This is a sad truth.
Intelligent people who have been asked to comment on these issues at hand always answer in this fashion, "IF these allegations are true, then something needs to be done about it". You see, the key word being IF. Please acknowledge that any discrimination, systemic or deliberate is not easily identified. We are all different with vast life experiences that alter our ability to perceive what is discriminatory or not. However, the issues at hand here with Surrey Metro Board are fairly cut and clear and should produce some clarity at the end of all the crap.
Seriously, some people should stay the hell out of kids sports.
No it was not Suhki Sandhu. It was someone else.
I will say this WITHOUT A DOUBT, and I speak of Surrey United. There is no discrimination at our club. The issues at hand do not involve our club. They involve the Surrey Metro Board which is composed of reps from Whalley SC, Surrey Youth, Guildford, and Surrey United.
Rangerforever
Well-Known Member
Rangerforever
Well-Known Member
And three cheers for Gurps also for having the balls to nail the race card as being crap as well.
Thanks RF,
Like I said, nothing that I read shows racial discrimination. It's just good old soccer politics, except now, there are Indo Canadians involved. Being a Indo myself, no allegations should be made that race is at play, until that is proven. Then and only then should the appropriate steps be taken
Otherwise, you become the boy who cried wolf. And that is not good for anybody.
Like I said, nothing that I read shows racial discrimination. It's just good old soccer politics, except now, there are Indo Canadians involved. Being a Indo myself, no allegations should be made that race is at play, until that is proven. Then and only then should the appropriate steps be taken
Otherwise, you become the boy who cried wolf. And that is not good for anybody.
And that I agree with. Common sense.
The only thing I hope and wish is that everyone has the same mentality Gurps and not believe everything they read or hear without due process. The consequences could mean we lose some very hard-working and dedicated people in the community. The time and stress dedicated to this issue alone is beyond ridiculous.
I hope everything comes to a satisfactory conclusion. Keeping the faith.
Meanwhile, many of the boys I coach, Indo-Canadian or more politically correct, South-Asian, are representing their province and country or travelling abroad. ......one boy just having signed with Sparta Rotterdam.
No discrimination issues hindering their progress. Their parents aren't crying foul. A club that supports their development in every way. Same goes for BC Soccer. I hope it's the same in Holland and England.
Holland is a very multicultural society. Yes, it has its struggles with multiculturalism, particularly with integration of Muslim immigrants (there has been well-known troubles with this issue). However, when it comes to voetball, they do not see colour. Just look at the composition of teams in the Eredivisie or the national team. No colour barriers.
Some of the old boys will remember tales of strife in the national team between the white old guard and the non-white up and comers (Davids, Seedorf etc.). I have not heard that complaint in several years.
Long story short, I think the young south asian lad will enjoy his stay in Holland. Too bad Sparta is not a better team (perhaps a better chance of playing long term?)
Sparta is known for selling their talented youth. Feyenoord is also in the picture. Geez, I'd be happy going anywhere, but that's me, and I'm here, not there.
jatcanadach
New Member
The events in this article have happened in the past, and are happening right now with another strong team. They don't listen at the hearings at all. I believe they try to break up the strongly developed teams and pick out the good players for their own good.
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