[Ray F]

Thus far we’ve received many good ideas, comments, pros and cons to the initial concept of holding a reunion event in Canton every August, keep them coming. The MFCA in conjunction with the PFUFA and Pro Football HOF are developing a great relationship allowing us to demonstrate the game on a large scale at the HOF, obtaining tickets to the Enshrinement and the HOF game. What could be better for a football fan? Secondly, we’ve received lots of good commentary on moving the annual event to different parts of the country within the MFCA regional structure.

Let’s face some facts and constraints:

- Miggle is not interested in co-hosting a miniature football event with the MFCA at this time. They have their reasons, and they may change over time but not now, so we should not push it. Just respect their position and let us concentrate on our own goals and objectives. My thanks to Mike G for representing Miggle.

- Two or more annual events may be a stretch for our young organization and may be a financial burden to most in our hobby.

- We have an obligation as an organization to promote the game equally across all regions.

- A hotel venue for any big MFCA event is the best, the Hampton Inn in Massillon was great but no convention rooms are offered there.

-The reunion event could also cater to other facets of our hobby, painting, collecting, sales of custom equipment, etc…. I’ll never forget the convention floor in South Bend, you had the big 3 in Tudor collectables all in one place, Dearell, Ty, and Ed S. If you needed to complete your collection they probably had something you needed.

- We need to promote out west, with a convention, tournament or something.

The way forward has to start within each region, all seven at this time. I like the concept of an MFCA regional tournament where each regional winner would play for an MFCA championship. By having seven MFCA qualifying tournaments each region is promoted equally. So I’m talking 8 annual events to include Canton. Any coach is welcome to travel to any regional tournament. Seven regional champs plus 1 more coach to fill out and 8 team tournament for a national championship. The eighth coach/team could be filled with the previous year’s winner, or runner-up, or third place finisher. Any and all MFCA members can register for any regional tournament, but you have to be an active MFCA member to participate in any regional event. Each region will use its rule set but the rules will rotate for the annual national tournament. The final 8 team single elimination tournament could take place in Canton beginning on Saturday with play ending in time to attend the enshrinement, with play resuming on Sunday with the final 2 coaches. Friday night will always be reserved for the reception dinner, HOF inductions, MFCA awards and maybe a quick Green Room Rumble or points challenge games.

Option 2, the region whose rule set is being used in the final-8 tournament hosts the MFCA Championship. Meaning a second major event for one of our regions. Along with the final 8 tournament other competitions can be run in parallel at that venue to make worthwhile for all in attendance. Thus, the Canton event will remain a “reunion” event with the points challenge as the premier competitive event and possibly a Green Room Rumble along with the regular events. We’ve grown accustom to.
One more thing, a ranking system. A few years ago we had the Tom Rusink/Ed Morgan ranking system where points were accrued via order of tournament finishes and by the number of events supported/attended and competed in. The more events you participate in and do well in would give points for MFCA Coach of the year.

These are just a few more ideas to consider as we address this complex problem. I know I went long but we have a lot to consider.
Thanks, Ray F/Manhattan Ray