All about Leo

When Leo was first diagnosed with cancer, there was an amazing outpouring of support. Within a few days, hundreds of emails were sent from people all over the state. Below are just some of the quotes from these emails reminding us of the special, dedicated, thoughtful, helpful, and caring qualities of Leo:

"Your influence has extended further than you realize."

 

"He's the region's all time greatest referee (And Referee teacher!)"

 

"I want to say thank you to your hard work in our region, and make our region one of the best, because your instruction and care for all of us."

 

"I want to thank you are training me in these three years and cares for me when I do games both in and out of our region."

 

"We've only met a few times but your influence reaches every corner of region 88, and beyond. There is never a discussion about refereeing where your name doesn't come up."

 

"I cannot imagine a ref. training class without you there to keep us all in line."

 

"A joke for Leo: A match between two teams took place one winter in the North of England. It had been raining heavily all week and the ground resembled a swamp. However, the referee ruled that play was possible and tossed the coin to determine ends. The visiting captain won the toss, and after a moment's thought, said, "OK - we'll take the shallow end!"

 

"Thank you for your work in making AYSO such a huge part of our community."

 

"The hundreds (probably thousands) of referees you've trained, assessed, and mentored owe you a huge debt of gratitude."

 

"All the times we taught referee courses together and debated the "hot" issues of the time are very dear to me. Your dedication and exemplary character offers a model for us all to emulate."

 

"You have brought so much happiness to children and their families for many years."

 

"Your one of the corner stones of the AYSO and one of the greatest assets of organization. I know all the personal time that you put in to make this a wonderful program for our kids and would like to thank you for that time."

 

"Thank you for being an inspiration to all aspiring refs (at least those who really wanted to ref) and being a great example to players and coaches alike."

 

"I appreciate all you do for AYSO. I’ve had my kids involved in soccer for about 6 yrs. and counting It’s guys like you that make this program happen."

 

"I know that you are a man of tremendous courage and you have stood for the refereeing integrity of Region 88."

 

"You have definitely been the reason I strived to constantly better myself as a referee. Your example has touched my life and the lives of countless others in South Pasadena. I remember meeting you for dinner in South Pasadena last year at Carrow's and just being glad to get your counsel and wisdom."

 

"Who is this guy? He takes this game way too seriously!" It didn't take me long to understand why. Thousands of kids have benefited from your work and knowledge. You have shaped Region 88 not by thinking about it, but by doing it. You gave new meaning to the term, "Put up or shut up."

 

"AYSO and this region in particular have been very fortunate to have someone as dedicated and capable for so long. You have positively influenced countless children and adults in the program."

 

"I cannot imagine that my experience with AYSO over the past five years would have been as rewarding without you and your value system ever present."

 

"I learned more about refereeing during one game as your AR than in all my other soccer experiences combined. And I learned even more about dedication and commitment from presence in the "yellow tent" weekend after weekend. Region 88 is a better organization because of you. "

 

"You have taught my son and I a lot about soccer and life. Your legacy will continue through each of us who have learned from your teaching and example. "

 

"You do incredible work for the Kids in Region 88. You are a great model for us mediocre refs! We are work in progress thanks to you!"

 

"It's very difficult to write something that hasn't already been said or referred. But, I guess it's never enough to tell those whom you love and appreciate one more time "thank you for your leadership, your guidance, your thoughtfulness, your patience, your dedication, your 'humor', and your love to the soccer and AYSO family."