Bob Maraia, president of the Bay Area Youth Soccer Association, presents the 2004 Volunteer of the Year award to Mark Roche of the Galveston Youth Soccer Club.

Galvestonian Recognized As 
Regional Youth Soccer 
Volunteer of Year

Galveston, TX – March 23, 2005 -  The Bay Area Youth Soccer Association (“BAYSA”), a regional association of 16 clubs stretching from south Houston to Galveston, selected Mark Roche of the Galveston Youth Soccer Club (“GYSC”) as its 2004 Volunteer of the Year.  The award was presented by Bob Maraia, BAYSA president, at the organization’s March membership meeting.

BAYSA cited Roche’s proactive efforts as GYSC’s Fields Chairman in significantly contributing to the development and ongoing operations at Galveston’s Sandhill Crane Soccer Complex.  During 2004, there were 8,900 children ranging in age from 5 to 17 playing on 873 teams in BAYSA.  Mr. Roche was one of 1,550 volunteers assisting Bay Area youth soccer clubs and teams.

John Massey, president of the Galveston club, cited Mark as “the ultimate unselfish volunteer.  Mark created the best of environments for players, coaches and parents to enjoy the game of soccer.  His example for other potential volunteers is exemplary.”

In addition to his role as Fields Chairman for the Galveston club, Roche has also volunteered as a coach, assistant coach and club board member.  Roche, a Galveston resident, is employed as captain of the M/V Texas by the Galveston/Texas City Pilots.