Chairman Steve Heard thanked all the volunteers who had worked so hard to maintain some form of rugby activity through these difficult times. He highlighted the importance of sponsors, noting that Mattioli Woods, Russell Cook and DSB Construction had all become major new sponsors.
He also highlighted that the Club had continued to develop and enhance its facilities during the period, with the refurbishment of the new bar and the enhancement of the physio room. This was made possible because of the donations of former and current players, and the crowd funding platform. The first year the AGP use has been used was also highlighted as a success.
Treasurer Jon Moxon then outlined the solid financial position of the Club which had been achieved due to the efforts of the CRSA Board and the use of Government grants which have offset our decline in commercial income due to the pandemic.
The rugby sections all reported strong and robust activities all of which have taken place within Government guidelines and highlighted their optimism for the future. The efforts of our rugby coaching co-ordinator Simeon Barnes was noted in guiding around 135 coaches to deliver their activities in a COVID safe way.
Numbers across the sections have been good, with a growth in activity from Minis to Seniors and with a better integration of our Colts section with our Senior section. Our DIDI rugby franchise has also continued to develop during the period, which is encouraging for the future.
After many years at the helm, our President, Lionel Frewin is stepping down and the Chairman and Board thanked Lionel for his huge efforts over a long period. Among many other things, he has improved the Club’s dialogue with the RFU, Surrey RFU, local councillors and our local MP.
He was heavily involved in the building of our Clubhouse, project managed and saw to completion both the AGP and the development of the downstairs bar. Importantly he has provided wise counsel to many of us at the club.
We are pleased that Ian Thomas was duly elected as the new President of Cobham RFC and Lionel handed over the President’s jacket.
The Chairman also thanked Dino Adams and Denise Symons who are both stepping down form the Board of the CRSA after many years’ service. The Chairman welcomed Hayley Dwyer onto the Board as the new Volunteer Coordinator.
Overall, the Club remains in a solid financial position. Our aim is to continue to grow all our playing sections and along with that increase the social activities of the membership. We are also keen to further develop our partnership with Cobham Free School and offer more children the opportunity to try out rugby.