New Brighton Rugby Club Annual Report 2013 (Volume 1) | Page 7

PRESIDENT’S REPORT
I am very pleased to be writing an annual report for 2013, as there is so much to mention
about our club, which is really on a high at the moment. Everything that has happened has led
to exciting times for members and supporters. There have been so many good matches that I
have watched. Each of our open grade teams can be very proud of their achievements and
results show that. We could not have imagined at the beginning of the season we would have
5 out of 7 teams in the top 4 of section 1 and another in a plate final. It is testament to Roddy
Butt’s efforts that we had 7 open grade teams and great to have another Women’s team and a
Colts U20 side. To have all teams except the women ( who are a young team that will
progress over the next few seasons ) at the top of their sections must have made our coaches
extremely satisfied and they are to be congratulated for the efforts as coaching is challenging,
but can also be very rewarding.
As I mentioned there was a real buzz around the club this season which resulted in many
happy sat nights at the club and each week we seemed to be presenting a cup of some
description which was great to see. There were milestones for players, overseas players
welcomed in, jobs and accommodation found, so a lot of thanks must go to the people
involved in arranging this. With so much happening on the field it was easy to overlook the
great job done by the senior management and junior committees and to every person involved
in either, don’t ever think you are taken for granted because a number of people say how well
things have been done throughout the season.
Unfortunately we only managed to win 1 final out of 4 but it was the big one and we
will never forget the 4th August 2013 ever because we all stood as one that day and cheered
the boys home. JOB DONE. There’s not a team in town could have stayed with us that day.
And with all the extras like the junior’s efforts and all the other supporters it’s no wonder we
had a big night at the club and for some of the players the next day and the next day etc!
Naturally with so much success we had a number of representative players so
congratulations to all who achieved representative honours.
Of course the one that stands out is when Ryan Crotty ran on to Sydney Stadium to become
our 4th All Black. This is something well deserved and a proud moment for his family,
friends, and club.
Unfortunately not everyone was able to enjoy our success and it was heart breaking to
hear of the sudden passing away of our beloved patron and 1st All Black, Hugh Burry. He
touched so many lives and he had such a calming style and modest personality that he was
loved and respected by all. Such a sad loss. Also sad to hear of Ken O’Connor passing away
as Ken was a really great guy and both he and his sons played for New Brighton.
But of course continued success is never guaranteed and we must keep working hard to
remain the premier club and never be complacent either on or off the field and we must keep
people wanting to be a part of our club, as committee members and volunteers of all kinds are
needed to make our club work so if you have time come on board and enjoy the ride.
So rest peacefully New Brighton RFC knowing you have reached the top but prepare well
for next season as there is only one way to go if you don’t stay there
Derek Davidson (president)