Dedicated to providing structured youth ultimate focused

on fun, inclusive play, and Spirit of the Game.

Hiring Committee February 6, 2020

Eugene School District 4J
200 N Monroe St,
Eugene, OR 97402

RE: Letter of Recommendation for Russell Arkin

To Whom It May Concern:

I am pleased to have the opportunity to provide a letter of recommendation for Russell Arkin to the
Eugene School District 4J as he begins to seek employment through his program at the University of
Oregon’s College of Education. I have known and worked with Russell for over five years through a local
non-profit organization, Eugene Middle School Ultimate (EMSU) dedicated to providing structure youth
Ultimate to the Eugene-Springfield Community. In his capacity as EMSU Executive Director Russell
demonstrated multiple outstanding qualities that I believe translate extremely well into a career as a
secondary teacher.

In 2015, a small group of young men and women connected by their love of Ultimate Frisbee and shared
experiences at South Eugene High School and the University of Oregon began development of a 501c(3)
not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sport and providing positive, inclusive
experiences for local youth. Russell was chosen by his peers to be the first director of EMSU and served
this capacity until 2019 when he left to pursue his Master's in Education at the UO. During his tenure, I
worked closely with Russell to develop a league that now engages between 150-200 middle school kids
annually through fall and spring leagues, summer camps, and regional tournaments. Through his
coaching and coordination responsibilities, he developed strong, lasting relationships and was able to
inspire ongoing participation among a group of students who might otherwise have pulled away
organized, constructive extracurricular activities during the challenging years we call middle school.
Developing and maintaining connections among middle school kids, largely college-age coaches, and
parents is no small task. Russell was able to do this for over four years through effective and detail-
oriented communication. He was consistently quick to respond to questions and was able to anticipate
challenges. As Executive Director, Russell was responsible for the management of an annual budget
ranging from $15,000 to $75,000 and communication with a volunteer Board of Directors. In instances
when he needed help he was able to seek guidance from the Board and accept constructive criticism.

I strongly believe his time with EMSU provided Russell with a unique experience and a solid foundation
for teaching career. I am happy to discuss Russell’s experience and demonstrated qualities in further
detail. I can be reached at 541-505-0501 or jared@mckenziewc.org. Thank you for your time and
consideration.

Sincerely

Jared Weybright
President, Board of Directors
Eugene Middle School Ultimate

PO Box 5903, Eugene OR. 97405 https://www.emsultimate.com/