Ards Rugby AGM:
The 87th Ards Rugby AGM took place in the clubhouse at Hamilton Park, outgoing President Neil Workman welcomed those in attendance and delivered his report of the season.

Neil highlighted the exciting times happening at Ards Rugby with the redevelopment plans off the field and the ongoing development plans on the field with a new coaching set up and a young playing squad. Neil continued how proud he's been to represent Ards Rugby throughout Irish Rugby in his two years of office, the 2014-15 season in the All Ireland League and last season in Q1.

He praised the work of all the coaches, the players in their commitment, the committee members in their dedication and professionalism and to the sponsors of Ards rugby for their support.

Chairman of Playing & Selection Stephen Nutt delivered his report, highlighting the improvements made in the past season - all senior teams are now playing more competitive rugby, 1st XV resulted didn't reflect performances, increased numbers at training, the emergence of an U14 team, the recruitment of new coaches at mini and youth level and the work being done by CCRO Paddy McGrath in developing the presence of Ards Rugby in the local schools.

Club Treasurer Colin Rankin delivered his finance report and although stressing the need for fiscal control he praised the work of the Club Finance Committee and the support given from club sponsors and those members who provide a monthly donation to the club, he highlighted the importance of membership subscriptions being paid promptly and the need to support club functions.

Prior to vacating his position Neil presented the Sam Orme Shield to outgoing Ards Rugby Treasurer Colin Rankin and the Rex Cavan Cup to Jimmy Webster for his services to the lower senior teams in the club.

The election of officers then took place and the following were duly elected for the 2016-17 season:
President - Colin McLEAN
Senior Vice President - Ricky Sadler
Junior Vice President - Ashley Peden
Secretary - Ian Wallace
Assistant Secretary - Billy Dickson
Treasurer - Alistair Carson
Assistant Treasurer - Colin Rankin
Club rep to Ulster Branch - Neil Workman
Chairman of Playing & Selection - Stephen Nutt
Past President's - Alastair Wilson, Mike Spence

In his opening remarks as President Colin McLean praised outgoing President Neil Workman on his leadership and enthusiasm over the past two seasons and also the work of Colin Rankin as treasurer in keeping tight control of the purse strings.

Colin continued he is excited about what lies ahead for Ards Rugby and that he'll carrying on where Neil left off and lead from the front.

It was decided that further committee members will be co-opted onto the committee under the roles of Finance, Playing, Bar, Grounds & Clubhouse.