In fact and in my opinion, we achieved the first two goals; however - despite making marked improvement in virtually every area of the team as noted below - we did not achieve the third objective. Here is a quick glance at the improvement I referenced:
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Even with these significant strides forward, we are extremely disappointed that the team did not qualify for the 2004 MLS Cup Playoffs. Disappointed, though, does not mean defeated. We believe that our plan has the team well-positioned to be a perennial playoff participant and annual contender for a MLS Cup championship.
Throughout 2004, Coach Colin Clarke and I have been working in tandem to identify and address areas where the team can improve. We are always looking for new players, both at home and internationally. It is our plan to bring additional assets to the team that will compliment and enhance the core of young, marquee players we have assembled. Indeed, the future is bright for our squad, as witnessed by:
There were plenty of other highlights in 2004:
The midfield play and overall presence of the media's 2004 team MVP, Simo Valakari; the MLS record-breaking goal scored by Jason Kreis at the Cotton Bowl; the stellar play of goalkeeper Jeff Cassar. Having stated that, we know that we underachieved and did not reach our goal. Please understand that we are fully committed to taking whatever steps are necessary to elevate our team's performance.
Off the playing field and behind the scenes, 2004 had lots of challenges as we were managing the move back to the Cotton Bowl, re-connecting with a previous fan base, constructing a professional sports team front office while preparing for a 2005 move to our spectacular new home in Frisco.
The Frisco Soccer and Entertainment Center will be unlike anything you have ever seen or imagined. Amazing sightlines. Dramatically enhanced concessions, parking and customer service. A 6,500 square-foot club. Twenty-six beautiful suites. Everything the Cotton Bowl wasn't, the FSEC is ten-fold better. Please take a moment and visit www.fcdallas.net and click on the "Countdown to Frisco" section for all of the latest stadium renderings and construction news and progress.
It is my sincere and distinct hope that you will join us at our new home next season. If you haven't renewed your season seats for next season, please jump back on board as our future has never been brighter.
If you have already renewed, THANK YOU for continuing to support the team. You have my - along with every FC Dallas and FSEC staff member's - personal and professional commitment to make sure that we never take your investment for granted. We will work diligently and tirelessly every day to continually earn your faith and support. From Lamar Hunt on down through the entire organization, every ticket holder is our most important customer.
Finally, I want to direct your attention to the invitation that details our next Town Hall Meeting on November 9th. I believe those fans that attended the first Town Hall Meeting last spring found it to be very beneficial, and this session will be even more comprehensive as we detail our plans and efforts, and open the floor to our fans so we can hear from you. Please join us as I share our visions and direction for your team. I hope to see you there.
Thank you, again, for your support of the 2004 Dallas Burn and - now - FC Dallas.
Best Regards,
GREG ELLIOTT
President / General Manager
