I have been very encouraged by the community spirit shown by our members, who have been looking out for each other. Kevin and Baz’s shopping service has been a big success and will continue throughout this lockdown period. If any member, especially our older friends, should need anything at all then please don’t hesitate to contact Peter King or myself.

Despite the challenges faced with the COVID-19 crisis, the club board, associated companies and committees have all continued to function, albeit “virtually”. A lot has happened in the last few weeks and we would like to update you as follows.

I am pleased to report that despite the financial impact that COVID-19 has caused, the rugby club’s finances are very robust and we remain “in the black”. Sadly this is not the case for many clubs. We will ensure that we continue to manage our club in a responsible manner and keep within our means.

In February Ben Storey decided to step down from his role as Director of Club Rugby. On behalf of the board I would like to thank Ben for his efforts, especially with the junior sections. The Board decided we needed to appoint a Head of Rugby and a rugby sub-committee to oversee all rugby playing matters at Hoe Lane from the 1st XV to the U7s. I am very pleased to announce that Ian Holman agreed to take on this role and was appointed to the board (subject to the usual ratification at the AGM). Ian and his sub-committee (Mark Hale, Matt Thompson, Mark Everett, Gavin Howell and Nigel Halligan) are in the process of introducing a new coaching structure including a Senior Coaching Coordinator. This role has been taken up by Dave Hynard.

Unfortunately our head coach, Baz, considers that this new structure would add too much to his workload and has therefore decided to step down. Ian will have an update on the coaches and new structure etc in the coming days. On a personal note I would like to thank Baz for his enormous contribution to our club – both as a player and coach. He is a great clubman and his boots will be hard to fill. Baz only wants what is best for Hertford RFC. So hopefully next season he will join the rest of us on the touchline and in the bar afterwards.

Chris Rawlin has announced that this will be his last season as Youth Chairman. Chris has done an outstanding job over the last 7 years and we are extremely grateful for all his hard work and dedication. Chris has kindly agreed to be vice-chairman to help his successor in their first year in the role. If you would like to be considered for the position of Youth Chairman, then please contact Chris as soon as possible.

Steve O’Smotherly will be stepping down from his role as Minis Chairman. I would like to thank Steve for all the time and effort he puts into the role. If you are interested in becoming the next Minis Chairman then please contact Steve.

Finally, I also intend to step down as Club Chairman at the AGM. The role has become too big for one individual so we will be separating some of the workload so that the next Chairman can concentrate on rugby matters, which is of course essential. I also need to spend more time on my business, especially now with the current crisis. I will continue to serve the club, if required, in other roles. I would like to thank everyone for their support, we have a great club and I have really enjoyed my 6 years as your Chairman. If you would like to be considered for the role of Club Chairman then please contact Mark Harris (Club Secretary) or myself as soon as you can.

AGM – Tuesday 30th June - please note the slight change from the publicised dates. It is quite possible that due to the coronavirus restrictions we might have to postpone this until later in the summer.

Thank you for your attention and keep safe!

Paul Eveleigh
Chairman
Hertford RFC