Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/408997
STARRINKS.COM NOVEMBER.DECEMBER.2014 / 21 "Try to GET TO KNOW your user groups by attending their board meetings. GAIN THEIR CONFIDENCE in you as a manager and that you're understanding of their unique needs. Try to be PATIENT, FLEXIBLE and OPEN-MINDED, and know that they all mean well and are representing their program." Craig Petersen General Manager Kettle Moraine Ice Center A s rink managers, our responsi- bility is to ensure our facilities are utilized as much as possible. Some rinks do that completely internally, offering a variety of programs to attract cus- tomers to participate in ice sports and other leisure activities. Many of us, however, rely on outside associations and clubs to at least supple- ment these rink-run programs by renting avail- able ice time to them. These outside entities, often established as not-for-profit organizations with bylaws and a board of directors, present special challenges for us in our attempt to maintain a harmonious and enjoyable environment. Renting ice time to business owners (camps, leagues, tournaments, etc.) or school athletic directors is pretty straightforward. It starts with a 1-on-1 negotiation, then the rental contract is executed and the partnership is off and running. The business relationship may be temporary or ongoing but it's easily manageable as each part- ner is a decision-maker who rarely changes. Associations and clubs, on the other hand, are much more complex.* While there is usually a board of directors that is charged with oversee- ing its operation, it is composed of volunteers with varying backgrounds, interests, experiences and priorities. Its hierarchy of elected positions is usually filled by those who have experience on the board and have offered — or been asked — to take the leadership roles. In most instances, their tenure lasts as long as their child's involvement in the sponsored program, so the turnover is fairly regular. To address this, the rink manager must anticipate this transition and adjust to it. "I am lucky that I have worked with the same hockey president for a long time, so there has been some consistency," said Debby Kwasman, director of RDV Sportsplex Ice Den in Orlando, Fla. "Oftentimes, though, there is transition in board leadership and it takes time to educate the , Continued on page 22 "Decision-making can TAKE TIME. Changes require consensus so you have to PLAN AHEAD in order to get a decision on anything as you know it has to be brought up to the ENTIRE BOARD for a vote." Debby Kwasman Director RDV Sportsplex Ice Den