This past weekend, Falmouth Youth Soccer Association hosted the 18th annual Columbus Day Falmouth Fall Classic. This year over 150 teams and close to 2,000 boys and girls competed in over 250 games at the fields at Community Park and the high school campus, where there was competitive soccer from ages 8-14, good sportsmanship and fond memories for all participants.

Just as importantly, the Falmouth Fall Classic is an excellent example of Falmouth’s strong sense of community and volunteerism. This year the FFC was led by Ron Lydick, who, building on the work of Louise Hester and Janet Dye last year, assembled a simply outstanding team to lead literally hundreds of Falmouth families who volunteered as field marshals, parking coordinators, and concessions, souvenirs and clean-up crews, not to mention the coaches and team managers. Additionally, many Falmouth student athletes served as referees and/or volunteered their time to help in the effort. The FFC would not be possible without them, nor would it be possible without the incredible cooperation and help provided by the town and its employees, from police, fire and EMS to public works, to community programs and schools. Finally, many local businesses were generous supporters of the tournament.

Literally thousands of hours of volunteer time makes this tournament possible and a wonderful reflection of Falmouth. To all of them, I say thank you and see you next year.

Sean Mahoney
Falmouth