CHAIRMAN’S  REPORT – FEBRUARY 2008

Playing Issues
We had had mixed fortunes last Season and it had been very tough at times for all. Thanks must be given to Steve O’ Shea the 1st XV Captain for his positive approach and Simon Dear the Club Coach, who had worked hard at training every week, however at the end of the day we had lost more League games then we had won.

Seven loses were within one score and four others were within ten points. On this evidence we were competitive. Let’s hope we remain so and it is certainly within our ability to turn our fortunes round next Season. We had been hampered by regular unavailability and injuries and had had some 51 players represented in the 1st XV through the Season and 6/7 combinations at 9 & 10. Not something that is overcome easily and had the story been only slightly different we could well have been close to promotion.

This impacted the 2nd XV and James Eaton worked very hard to ensure that the 2nd XV were able to field a side more regularly then in the last two seasons, albeit with mixed fortunes. Olly Derbyshire had also worked tirelessly on new recruits and fixtures. Numbers at training had improved and remained more consistent, however we should still be aiming to run three teams going forward.

The Vets unfortunately did not really make an appearance but there is hope that in our 135th Anniversary Season they will resurface, if only for the Social!!

House and Grounds
Plans are afoot that would involve KCS undertaking some extensive drainage works and us being the beneficiary of these, which would hopefully resolve the wetness of parts of the ground. Bar profits however were down as we had rarely had more than one team at home, although on a number of occasions we’d rented a pitch to Old Becs and they had used our facilities as well.

Finance
It was unfortunate that our Sponsor had withdrawn early in he Season however due to the generosity of a well established businessman and former pupil we had made up this loss through a one-off donation. However, as always, subscriptions will be vital going forward. In general our Finances are in good order although we are seeking a full time replacement for the Treasurer who is on a travelling sabbatical.

Social
We have a big Season ahead and will be celebrating it on many occasions, we are in our 135th Anniversary Season and I for one can’t think of a reason not to enjoy it through he various social events, re-unions and home games that will be happening but also on February 6th at the Anniversary Ball.
Good luck for the Season

Will Fairburn (Shoulders)