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Board » General Discussion » RESPECT FOR VOLUNTEERS

Hi SOLers !

Sailonline Management have seen, during the recent past, a sizeable surge of criticism addressed to those who run the platform behind the scenes. SRC has seen the vast majority of such criticism - too many times as utterly inappropriate; I have decided to address the matter.

I take it for granted that everyone at SOL is aware that the Teams working behind the scenes do so in total volunteer mode and only for passion. This does not mean that judgements are always right or that mistakes are impossible, but surely does mean that they deserve our complete respect for what they do.

Constructive criticism is one thing and has always been welcome. Good examples are changes to the rules regarding DC-able starts and finishes during Ocean races and some modifications to the platform features that have come from constructive comments.

Criticism like: “This race has been badly organized because there is no wind” …. OR ….” this boat is too slow for a race with light wind like this one “…. are NON constructive comments, and as such are unacceptable criticism.

Races are planned several months in advance and, with few exceptions (e.g. trade winds) no such long-term prediction of Wx can be assessed in advance. (Our volunteers are neither computers, nor meteorologists).

I have personally seen such sarcastic and disrespectful comments and criticism appearing in race chat.

The objective of this message is to alert that this lack of respect will no longer be accepted, and appropriate action will be taken to preserve the rights of those that want to offer this virtual sailing on SOL waters, to be able to do so in happiness, like those who enjoy the platform.

I will not lose even one volunteer because he/she has been offended on such grounds and I would add that such a public lack of respect also acts to deter any new volunteers who are now, and will forever be, needed for the future.

Piero
Sailonline COO

PS: this thread remains open for comments. The more the better.
Hi Piero and the rest of the admin team.

As a long term Soler, since 2009, let me be the first to say Thank You for the tireless efforts put in to keep my online hobby/stress distraction platform going strong for so many years.

Although I could comment further regarding the matter and only in support of the team. Let me just leave it on a positive note.

I appreciate you all

George (Jawz)
Dear Piero and team of volunteers: I am new and I come from another virtual regatta platform. First of all, I congratulate you for the great task you are doing and of course I fully agree that you should navigate (virtually) with respect and honesty. Thank you Sailonline!!!!!!!!!!!! (Google Translator).

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