JBAA May Update

Courtesy President John de Goede.

***

Players, Members:

The Club Executive met last night. The following is a brief summary.

A review of the club's financial position confirmed the club's ability to retain the duplex rental (player housing). No new uniform/equipment spending in 2020/21. Enough funds in reserve to start the season. The Tillman Briggs fund will be added to the Building Fund. This gives us almost $100,000 in that fund.

Hans updated the membership on the planned building renovation. The clubhouse will be lifted two feet (10 foot ceilings downstairs) New entrances and relocation of the bar and washrooms to create a larger weight room and a multi use space for post game functions/workout area. A meeting/video review room will be added upstairs. Hans has had the lot surveyed and is meeting with the City to see about next steps. Formal plans will be drawn up in the next six months and presented to the membership for review. Fundraising will begin again this fall. As in 1986 when the clubhouse expansion was completed; the Club executive believes this change will serve members better and help to create better athletes. That progress requires change. I will be recommending that the new gym be named in honour on Tillman Briggs.

The Club will hold an Online Fundraising Gala on June 18th. We will celebrate our players, present the awards and most importantly recognize Bobby Ross"s induction into the Victoria Sport's Hall of Fame. More to follow in the next week.

Player welfare: the BCRU is working with various BC Government agencies to negotiate a safe return to play. No more information at this time.

Field Issues: Phil Meyer continues to work with City staff to get the drainage issues at the Mac repaired. The City is committed to starting in August. Had hoped for sooner but evidently playing fields are not a priority. Thanks to Phil for staying on top of this.

Senior Rugby: The same coaching, management and support team are in place for 20-21. We just need the Covid all clear. Women's Rugby is still an uncertainty.

Junior Rugby: Coaches in place. Again it's the Covid waiting game.

The Clubhouse gardens have been receiving a lot of attention from Barry and his helpers. Stop by and have a look at the transformation. Also any avid gardens are welcome to come down and help out.

The AGM will be held at the clubhouse on June 11th at 7 pm.

A motion to open the bar and adjourn the meeting was adopted at 8:30. Thanks to all those who attended.