Cuba Soccer Program co-director Amy Hendrix, confronted two aldermen at the Oct. 7 city council meeting about allegations that she and her husband were taking money from the program for themselves. 

The allegations came after the soccer program sold over $21,000 worth of TJ’s pizza as a fundraiser to improve the soccer fields. She noted that the Cuba City Council had already approved the program’s plans for the fields.

“If the people in our program didn’t believe in us or think that we were lining our pockets, that many people wouldn’t have participated in the fundraiser. So for somebody to accuse us of that, I’m just appalled by that. I can’t believe that they can serve on a board that represents our city.”

Hendrix directly addressed Alderman Richard Hewkin, who she said, accused her husband of living a lavish lifestyle, and asked if he would like to apologize. Hewkin said that he didn’t have a comment. 

Hendrix and her husband Noel have been running the league for 15 years. Their children are now adults, but the program is benefiting the next generation of their family. 

“I have a granddaughter and nieces and nephews in the league. I coach a team with my granddaughter and my great niece on the team,” Hendrix said.  

She was also upset that a second alderman, Ray Mortimeyer, interfered in the construction of the irrigation system. 

“It was approved, so what needs to be signed?” Hendrix said.

Mortimeyer replied, “I just told them that I wouldn’t sign the purchase order.” 

Mortimeyer then said he was wrong and nothing has changed regarding plans for the field. 

Hendrix said Mortimeyer’s actions had delayed the order to get the hydrant.

Mayor Kevin Copling acknowledged Hendrix’s concerns.

“I know what you’re going through and you’re doing an awesome job,” Copling said, which visitors responded to with a round of applause. “There’s nobody who does a better job than you and Noel.”

Copling said that he stands behind the program and Hendrix and her husband one hundred percent and later apologized to her about the incident. 

“But I just want to make sure that our program continues to move forward,” Hendrix said. “This is our last week of games and I encourage you to come out and see the kids. You guys would be amazed at what’s there. You’ll see a bunch of happy little kids and that’s what this is about.”