Shaun Goater believes poorly arranged fixtures "killed" Bermuda Hogges' inaugural campaign and has vowed not to repeat the same mistakes when they kick-off next season's preparations at the league's AGM in Florida.

The Hogges hierarchy is the first to admit last season's fixture list was far from ideal with a three-week lull in matches following their opening game, leaving them marooned at the foot of the table from the outset.

This week president Goater, coach Kyle Lightbourne and co-owner Paul Scope join representatives from the 120-plus USL franchises for a three-day gathering in Tampa, with the 2008 fixture calendar their most pressing concern.

"The most important part of the AGM for us will be arranging next season's fixtures," said Goater. "Last season our fixture list was far from ideal. We started a week behind most teams and then had a three-week break — that really killed us.

"We always felt we were chasing from the start. Even when we eventually got going we were well behind and that's not good psychologically. That must be avoided this time around.

"The way the fixture list is arranged is quite unique. You basically speak to the other team owners and decide on a date that suits both parties."

Goater, who will be representing a World XI in a charity match in England next month, also stressed the importance of having a day's rest and recuperation between away fixtures.

"When playing overseas last season we often had two games in 48 hours, plus four or five hours' travel in between. I think it's important we have a days rest between overseas games next season."

Matchday entertainment is another area the Hogges are particularly looking to develop next year with the Island's first professional team planning to borrow concepts from some of the more experienced franchises.

"The AGM will give us a chance to share our experiences and listen to advice from other franchises regarding off-field matters," said Goater. "I'm particularly interested in looking at improving matchday entertainment. On our travels last season we saw concepts we liked in terms of half-time entertainment, and we will look to incorporate some of them."

Executive vice-chairman of the USL, Tim Holt, said the AGM was both a business and social event allowing team owners to interact and share knowledge.

"During the AGM the bulk of the league fixture scheduling will be organised, although not finalised until December or January," he said. "We will be finalising the alignment of all our leagues, while features and seminars designed to improve organisations will be held."