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Online now: 6 members: Bear1369, Bob Downs, LuisPerez1921, Rhonda021, Roscoe 65, TABLE SETTER 11; 100 anonymousDiscussion: T.O.C
| Posted | Discussion |
| Feb. 18, 2018 deep14 102 posts | T.O.C After going to the T.O.C. Florida, I would like to make a suggestion. Pick a different state every year to hold the T.O.C. Does not have to be a curtain date. Pick dates that coincide with great weather for each state. this way people can either afford it more easily or get to visit different states of our united states. Again it is an honor to be selected to the T.O.C. so dates do not matter. you plan accordingly to weather during the year. From Talking to other teams I get the since that a lot of teams will not come back after the first time do to expense and condition of most of the fields. So maybe consider this Unless there is a huge kick back from Florida. Just my thoughts Thank you Ken Gideon Fresno Heat |
| Feb. 18, 2018 Jon44 Men's 55 149 posts | I also just returned from the TOC. I really enjoyed it and was happy we qualified. I consider the tournament one you have to do at least once and I am glad I went. I was, however, surprised at the condition of the fields we played at. I know SSUSA can't control weather, so there is nothing that could be done regarding the outfield being under water (Our left fielder actually lost his shoe chasing a ball down in the corner-- it got stuck in the swampy mud and he ran out of it). The facility I played at (Auburndale) was meh at best. MY thought before attending is that this tourney was that it was the best of the best teams playing at amazing fields/facilities, etc. The fields I played at had non-working scoreboards, minimal snack bar, and the fields were ok at best. With all of this said, I am glad I went and would probably go again, but with more realistic expectations regarding what's waiting for me there from a facilities standpoint. With regards to the costs of going, Tampa/Orlando offer flight options from many locations (I flew in from Vegas) that are very reasonable and the cost wasn't so bad for us. |
| Feb. 18, 2018 SSUSA Staff 3483 posts | deep14 and Jon44 ... Just a couple of quick points here ... • The TOC is under a mutually beneficial long-term sponsorship contract with Central Florida Sports Marketing to be held annually in Polk County, FL, during the 1st half of February ... Moving it around the country is not financially or logistically feasible while maintaining the unique character of the event and extra free festivities offered ... • The facilities are probably average in comparison with other multi-venue areas of the country ... But this year, they were still showing the adverse effects of severe hurricane damage ... Recovery from those effects are prioritized by the governments doing the work, and we presume that softball complexes aren't at the top of the list ... We are both confident and hopeful that next year the venues will be "healthier" ... Thanks for attending! |
| Feb. 18, 2018 deep14 102 posts | Staff That is to bad you are stuck in a contract, because i am sure that other states would be more than willing to do the same. Speaking for myself, it would be nice to travel to a new destination each year for T.O.C. if we made it. |
| Feb. 18, 2018 DaveDowell Men's 70 4312 posts | I guess it's a matter of perspective ... We are THRILLED to be "stuck" in this contractual arrangement and won't hesitate to extend the term! ... NO other state or municipality has even come close to an equally beneficial support level than Central Florida Sports Marketing to host the T.O.C. ... They deserve much of the credit for this incredible, multi-faceted event being offered at an entry fee that is less than EVERY qualifier providing the opportunity for teams to earn their bid ... |
| Feb. 18, 2018 Dbax Men's 65 2100 posts | Weather is hit or miss. But when it's a hit, this is the best tournament of the year. |
| Feb. 20, 2018 deep14 102 posts | Thank you Dave now I understand. had a great time. Just was wondering that's all |
| Feb. 20, 2018 txnighttrain 119 posts | My wife and had a wonderful time at TOC. What I don't understand is why it is February after the qualifying year. Many teams that were at their best in September, now may not play for 5 months. I know logistics dictates when and tournament are run, but I thought it would be great to play TOC in November and play at least Winter Worlds in February. TOC moves to Phoenix in November, and Winter Worlds move to Florida in February. Just a thought although it may not be possible. |
| Feb. 21, 2018 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | txnighttrain, your logic is impeccable and this has been brought up many times over the years. I don't believe there was ever a poster who disagreed with you. What could be a possible reason that it is better to play as a team 4 or 5 months after your season where the team may disband, move up in age, lose some important players to other teams, etc.? The answer of SSUSA is always that there is a contractual obligation to stay on those dates. Can't remember why they couldn't switch the tournaments to preserve team integrity. |
| Feb. 21, 2018 DieselDan Men's 75 600 posts | Follow the money? |
