Friends, I'm sending this to you in hopes of gathering your support in light of a recent rule change that was brought to my attention when we registered Chandler for Girls U12 Hockey. I was informed at the time of registration, that despite spending the last two years in the U10 program (approved by the coop two years ago), Chandler is not approved to play at the U12 Level this upcoming season as a result of this new move-up policy, stating that each move up request is now to be handled at the players’ respective board. In short, this means that the decision to let her play at the U12 level with her friend’s now falls into the hands of the Orono Board, a group of 18 individuals - only a few of which have girls playing in the Warriors program. The Coop approved Chandler Sturgis' move up from U8 to U10 two years ago. Since then, she has developed incredible friendships with the now 6th grade class. She has played with this group for three years (including her last year of U8). She plays soccer with them, Summer hockey with them. They do camps together, have sleepovers. Many are surprised to know Chandler is still in 5th grade. Keeping Chandler at the U10 level, on a team in which she doesn't know many, would hurt her. It would hurt her socially and athletically. It would hurt her more socially than it would hurt her athletically. This is a small community. You are getting this because you know me as a caring person, someone that wants what is best for the girls. Our family's desire is simply wanting my daughter to play with the group of girls, the age group, she's played with the past three years. My hope is, with your signature, the Board will see this isn’t just a parent trying to do the best thing for his daughter, but that there is incredible support from our friends and community as well.