90th Annual General Meeting of Ormskirk Rugby Union Football Club

28th June 2024 at 7.30pm in the Clubhouse

Agenda

• APOLOGIES

• APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM 2023 AGM

• TREASURER’S REPORT / PRESENTATION

• CHAIRMAN’S REPORT / PRESENTATION

• DIRECTOR of RUGBY REPORT

• BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

• CLUBHOUSE/BAR/EVENTS/BOOKINGS

• MINI / JUNIOR SECTION UPDATE

• SAFEGUARDING & RUGBY SAFE UPDATE

• REGISTRATIONS & MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

• BOARD POSITIONS for 2024/25 (Members’ vote)

• TEAM CAPTAINS for 2024/25

• LIFE MEMBERSHIPS

• RULE CHANGE(S)

• CHANGE OF CLUB TO A CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION

• AOB. To hear any relevant matter. On which no voting shall be allowed.

• CLOSE & DATE OF NEXT AGM

 
Minutes of 90th Annual General Meeting

Friday 28th June 2024

A minute’s silence preceded the AGM, to remember Club members who had passed away in the past 12 months……..

Present 

Stevenson, N. Hall, D. Ward, S. Rogers, A. Evans, J. Anderson, D. Gaughan, M. Slater,                 J. Stimpson, D. McCready, D. Firth, A.M. Winter, J. Whitfield, J. Lang, J. Croston, R. Whitney, A. Spencer, A. Povey, D. Jones, K. Marrow, N. Hall, N. Habberfield, K. Mahood, B. Whitrow,              S. Staniforth, N. Buck, A. Wall, P. Blackwood, G. Spengler, K. Hey, H. Hague, A. Deane, M. Bailie, W. Armstrong, D. Wortington, A. Lambie, P. Cooke-Davies, O. Roper, E. Quirk, G. Dykes, E. King, Williams-Denton, T. McCready, A. Gallagher, O. Wildman, D. Kelly, M. Quirk.

Apologies

N. Jacobs, N. O’Donovan, N. Ainsworth, Alan Spencer, Chris Wilford, J. Routledge, A. Routledge, B. Porteous, S.Botfield, A. O’Malley. A. McClenaghan.

 

Minutes of 89th AGM (2023)
Last year’s minutes passed as true and accurate record by J. Anderson. & B. Stevenson.

 

Treasurers Report

Financial report compiled by Lonsdale Marsh, independently of the Board.

This was report was available at the meeting. Presented by Jerry Stimpson, Club Treasurer.

After reviewing the ORUFC accounts for the year to 30th April 2024 the following points should be noted: -

Although Bar account is up the gross profit is down 2.6k.  The real issue is wages year on year.

Membership is down and several home fixtures have been lost.

Repairs to the club and expenditure also increased, although RFU Grant of 5k for Ladies Toilet refurb.

Balance sheet shows loss of 5k – some of this down to stock for kit sales.

 

Chairman’s Report

New board members in place with Neil Habberfield (DoR), Colin Clark(Coaching Coordinator), Jerry Stimpson (Treasurer), Anne Marie Winter (M&JS Registrations) and Andy Evans (Senior Registrations). Ollie Scull co-opted to board for Business Development.

Live 200 Club draws in through 2023/24. RFU 15 a side fixture declaration completed on GMS for ticket allocation for Twickenham 6 Nations and Autumn internationals 24/25.

RFU payment of player declaration completed on GMS.

ORUFC voted top of the Referees’ Society merit league for referee hospitality for the 3rd

year in a row. Massive thanks to Dave jones. Our Referee Coordinator.

Pitch maintenance commenced at a quoted cost of £11200, supported by WLBC grant (£9261),  Gareth Dowling heavily involved in this grant. 1st phase done. 2nd phase due at the start of the season.

 

Chair of Rugby

First XV finished 12th (out of 14) in the Counties 3 (ADM) RFU league.

Issues from player availability. Inconsistent player availability led to inconsistency in the team.

End of season tour appeared to bring a togetherness in the group. Two players from the Colts made 1st team debut

A new coaching structure in place next season with a heavy focus on developing talent from within, introducing a clear player pathway from MJS through to Senior Rugby.

 

2nd XV finished 4th place in the Division 3 North league. Heavily reliant on senior members. Loss of students to LSH & travelling time/distance a factor on numbers for away games.

 

Community Coaching:

Good links held with Ormskirk School, held a number of games and tournaments at Green Lane. Through tournaments other local schools such as Maricourt have been exposed to ORUFC. Mini Section goes from strength to Strength and is the envy of many Senior clubs.

 

Ladies had challenging season to get 15 players out with retirements, players moving clubs, work

commitments. Change of leadership due to Captain and vice-captain leaving. This meant our previous captain stepped in, but a lack of regular players necessitated withdrawal from the league.

Since then, training has continued, the playing squad has been clearly defined and the management has a much clearer structure and direction.

Readmitted into NC3 for next season with big recruitment drive and training restarting 11th July. Dave Worthington & Esther King will be Ladies coaches for next season.

 

Business Development

This year we have welcomed new sponsorship deals from our partners at: Camperz4hire, Flooring Design Studio & Dyslexia Assessments Specialist Tutoring.

Extending outreach program to new partners as part of the Beer Festival sponsorship sales. This year will be our biggest beer festival ever.

Targeting untouched client base in and around club, inviting members to get in touch with contacts of any potential sponsors.

Club Kit initially commissioned for a three-year period; they are in such good condition they will easily last at least one more year. This extension will not only reduce wastage but also help us manage club expenses more effectively. Moreover, it will continue to deliver exceptional value for our current sponsors.

We are actively engaging with our existing sponsors to discuss extending their agreements. Additionally, we are initiating conversations with all current sponsors regarding our upcoming Centenary kit and the club’s plans to maximize sponsor value with this special launch.

 

Clubhouse

Regular matches held at the club on Saturdays and Sundays, plus additional social events, member and non-member functions & MJS Presentations ensure the bar continues to thrive.

Club continued to be used by Ukuleles and Slimming World, plus hire of club to local clinical support group during the day for weekly sessions, all bring in additional income for the club. All regular hirers’ costs reviewed and increased in line with inflation, with new contracts issued.

The increase in alcohol prices and VAT has led to a slight increase for all products sold from the bar. However, there will be a new member’s card giving a 10% discount from the start of the season. This reduction will only be available to members presenting their card.

The Brilliant Club presentation night at the Lost and Found was a huge success.

Amazing Sevens tournament and beer festival on 15/6/24 with the 15 a side vets game v Orrell. Thanks to the social committee (Sophie Rogers, Neil Habberfield, Andy Evans, Mark Slater, Ollie Scull, Dougie McCreadie, Tiff McCready, Kieron Mahood) for organising a great event.

Volunteers weekend to be held 29/30 June 2024, so give your support and help for a few hours.

RFU grant (£5k) for ladies toilet refurb completed November 23. Total cost (£7.5k plus vat).

Have started the process of getting a 5-star Hygiene rating for the Club.

 

Communications

Jay Croston started the year on social for Communications team.

This funded role past to Paris and has kept ensuring team announcements and scores are broadcast, as well as advertising our Events. Achieving very good viewing numbers.

These events have included traditional things such as the Taff Cup, Christmas Crawl, and Sevens/Beer Festival (which is building each year back to previous successes and taking almost 4k Last year). They have also included new events, like the Oktoberfest and Comedy Night, which both took over £2k, and the Burns and Summer Social which did less well commercially but are things we can build on. Ideas are welcome!

 

Mini & Junior Section

Another strong and successful season for Ormskirk MJS.

11 active age groups with registrations slightly down on last season. Strength in depth across all age groups – consistent level of registered players and coaches.

 

Highlights:

U 5s& 6s had another successful season, providing a fantastic base for the section. 

U7’s - regular turnout of 15 boys and girls.

U8, U9, U10 and U11 squads went on tour to Colwyn Bay at the end of March.

U9, U13 and U15’s went to watch Sale Sharks vs Newcastle on 8th March.

U11 good numbers with 25 in total with several matches now played. 

U12 squad played the introductory/curtain raiser game at Waterloo and went to Sale vs Exeter.

They also attend an additional strength and conditioning training session at Gym Space in Ormskirk each Friday to benefit from both fitness and team bonding perspective.

U13’s were invited to Fylde for matches against Fylde, Vale of Lune, Trafford MV, and their touring side Currie Chieftains from Scotland. Also a tour to Scarborough in April.

U14s had a very successful season (W12 L5) finishing strongly as winners of Lancs cup.

Four of the U14s players have been selected for Sale Sharks DPP programme.

Kobe Ainscow , Padraig Lavell, Matthew Jennings, Ralph Sinclair

The U15’s played Caldy Festival and tour to Scarborough with the U13 squad in April

U17s Colts went through to the finals for the Rob Briers U17s Cup and the U17 County Cup.

Two Colts players – Sam Staniforth and Joe Prescott played several games for Senior 1st team.

The end of season presentation and BBQ for multiple age groups took place on 11th May. This was a hugely successful event – thanks to all those involved in event organisation.

 

Safeguarding

Club Safeguarding Annual Self Audit 2023 completed 17/08/23.

RFU ‘In Touch’ (for Safeguarding Officers) due for reacquisition until 2025.

Recruited for Safeguarding & RugbySafe Assistant to support Club Safeguarding Officer and lead on RugbySafe - Danielle Kelly will continue in this role.

Attended Lancashire Rugby Safeguarding Conference: Key learning point for ORUFC is to develop a Club Social Media Policy for 2024/25 season.

Research Associate from Lancaster University: Concussion in rugby and importance of graduated return to play, and research into the more significant impact and risks for female players. HEADCASE e-learning updated April 2024 and should be completed by all coaches, players and parents ahead of the next season.

 

Senior Registrations

2023/24 Season: Social -53, Senior over 21- 27, Senior under 21- 9, Ladies – 6, Family -6

Membership numbers down. Recruitment drive required.

New adult registration rules for 2024-25 season.

 

MJS Registrations

Most age groups have a healthy number of registered players.

Respective team coaches are proactive and supportive ensuring players are affiliated to the RFU

and are paying subscriptions. Online subscription now smother.

Communication between coaches and Reg Secretary is good either through email or via text.

GMS and Heja are helpful tools to monitor and check player affiliations and subscriptions

What can be improved:

Total income from 2023/24 subscriptions is currently unknown.

MJS and Senior subscription data and info needs to be combined to enable accurate numbers.

 

Board Positions and Club Roles

All positions were open for members applications. Proposes and Seconders recorded prior to meeting.  Voting resulted in the following appointments: -

Club Chairman:  Neil Habberfield

MJS Chairman:  Hannah Hague

Club Secretary:  Derek Ward 

Treasurer:   Jerry Stimpson

Chair of Rugby:  Alex Lambie

MJS Coaching Coordinator:  Colin Clark  (Non Board – reports to DoR)

Safeguarding Officer:  Barbara Whitrow

Business Development:  Ollie Scull

Communications & Events:  Mark Slater

MJS Membership & Registration:  Anne-Marie Winter

Senior Membership & Registration:  Andy Evans

 

Captains 2024/25

The senior team captains were unanimously accepted:

1st Team – Joe Whitfield

2nd Team – Mike Quirk

3rd Team – No team entered into Leagues

Ladies Team – Ashleigh Willis. / Club capt. Paris Cooke-Davies.

 

Life Member

1. Habberfield introduced this award for many years dedication to Keiran Mahood.  
2. Slater introduced this award for years of service to the club to Dougie McCready.
3. Stevenson introduced this award for service in all club sections to Neil Ainsworth.

All nominations were warmly greeted by all present.

 

Rule Change

Board presented one rule change:

Increase in Social Membership to £8 per month.

This was passed unanimously.

 

CIO Incorporation

Unfortunately, President B. Porteous was not able to attend the meeting on latest update.

EGM meeting earlier this year approved the progress to this change.

An updated Club Constitution is currently being prepared.

 

AOB

200 Club was drawn- Graeme Ford was this month’s winner.

 

Alex Lambie updated mtg of RFU drive to involve ladies team members on club committees to represent women & girls members.

It was agreed this would be raised at the next Board meeting. 

A new coaching team consisting of current and former players was introduced: Mark Bailie, Simon Staniforth, Neil Habberfield, Andy Evans, Alex Lambie and Gaz Prytherch.

The amazing work done by outgoing Chairman, Brian Stevenson, was acknowledged by all.

One final thanks to Gary Spengler for standing in at the last minute to cover President’s role.

Next AGM:

Date to be confirmed.

ORUFC Role Descriptions (Board Structure can be viewed in the download at the bottom of this page)

POST: The President

This is an honorary position and a Non-Executive Board Member. As the main representative of members on the Board, the role specifically ensures constitutional compliance and steering on Governance. Lead role for International Tickets and presents the Annual Gala Dinner.

POST: Club Chairman

The Chairman provides leadership and direction to the Club by defining strategy with assistance from the Club Board.  The Chairman chairs the majority of meetings and ensures members of the Board are able to perform their duties.  Other duties of the Chairman include ensuring that the section is being run in a suitable manner according to the RFU by making sure that all official and club documentation is completed, and the necessary obligations met. As well as this, the Chairman represents the section at various club events.

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Directing and steering the shape, implementation and achievement of a strategic plan that will secure a sustainable and financially secure Club capable of being the Rugby Club of choice in West Lancashire
• Leading the business development change and improvement and addressing the legal structure, Club constitution and strategic direction
• Leading the Board through change and improvement ensuring all members are engaged and involved in securing the successful implementation of the Strategic and Business Plans
• Communicating with and engaging all stakeholders in partnership to work together and achieve the Vision and to promote rugby across West Lancashire and beyond
• Evaluating development options to ensure that the Club’s vision for a state-of-the-art Clubhouse and playing facilities is addressed within the WLBC 2027 Local Development Plan
• Coordinates and Chairs regular club meetings including EGMs and AGMs. Sets agenda and controls discussions in club meetings
• Makes decisions in consultation with other officers
• Plays an executive role as the principal officer throughout the year
• Managing the requirements for effective HR and people management, Health & Safety, Child Protection issues and insurance.
• Supervise the implementation of club policy as formulated by the management committee 
• Be a visible member of the whole club attending various club held events
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Strategic leadership and management within a successful organisation
• General business experience at many different levels
• Experience of successfully initiating and implementing change projects
• Experience of governance
• Ability to shape and develop clarity of vision and to develop and implement strategy
• Good communication skills
• Excellent people management skills including an ability to forge and maintain a wide range of community relationships
• Organisational skills including time and commitment

POST: MJS Chairman

The MJS Chairman provides leadership and direction to the Mini & Junior Section by defining strategy with assistance from the MJS Committee.  The Chairman chairs the majority of meetings and ensures all MS Committee are able to perform their duties.  Other duties of the Chairman include ensuring that the section is being run in a suitable manner according to the RFU by making sure that all official and club documentation is completed, and the necessary obligations met.  As well as this, the Chairman represents the MJS Section at various club events and has a seat on the Club Board.

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Directing and steering the shape, implementation and achievement of Minis and Juniors Sports Development Plan that contributes to the achievement of ORUFC as the community sports Club of choice in West Lancashire
• Clarifying and promoting the ethics, standards and rules of club behaviour across the mini/junior section of the Club
• Managing the provision and development of junior rugby including progression routes and playing opportunities to ensure that maximum use is made of developing, using and retaining homegrown talent to ensure successful and sustainable teams at all levels in future years
• Building and maintaining a positive playing experience through effective liaison with RFU to share best practice and liaison with Finance to ensure appropriate funds and resources are available
• Coordinates and Chairs regular MJS Committee and Coaches meetings. Sets agenda and controls discussions in club meetings
• Makes decisions in consultation with other officers of the MJS Committee
• Managing the requirements for effective HR and people management, Health & Safety, Child Protection issues
• Be a visible member of the whole club attending various club held events
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club

 Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Strategic leadership and management experience within a medium-sized or large organisation
• Specialist expertise in either: financial management, law, project or programme management, marketing, governance, human resources or organisational development
• Ability: shape and develop a clear vision for sport and to develop and implement strategy
• Experience in planning and organising people, rugby matches, and group activities
• Ability: interpret and disseminate best practice and design and gain commitment to ethical standards of behaviour and practice

 

POST: Club Treasurer

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Preparing and providing an annual budget, reports, and regular financial information to the Board so that the financial performance/status of the Club is managed effectively to achieve financial stability
• Attend Board Meeting and provide updates regarding the financial position of the sections and club
• Prepare and present annual budgets and control costs for all Teams and Club Sections to the The Board for consideration, making necessary alterations, for final approval by The Board
• Administer club accounts, preparing income and expenditure accounts and cash flow forecasts. 
• Monitor registration fees and subscriptions, paying any necessary fees
• Appoint auditors if necessary
• Planning and managing the financial performance, policies and procedures of the club so that it operates on a sound and transparent commercial basis providing Value for Money for all members and users.
• Managing the financial matters, policies, practices and procedures required for the Club to operate as a legal entity, undertaking actions required by CASC/Companies House and maintaining a positive relationship with the bank. 
• Exploring and securing opportunities for income generation through investment options, fundraising, and sponsorships. Make recommendations on policy for funding of the club
• Review the financial stability of the club, and, if necessary, recommend appropriate action to The Board
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Management of financial matters within a business or organisation
• Strategic leadership and management within a successful organisation
• Specialist expertise in either: book-keeping, law, project or programme management, marketing, human resources or organisational development
• Ability to determine budgets to support the strategic and operational plans to ensure budget priorities and decisions reflect the vision and objectives of the board
• Thorough understanding of the financial reports
• Developing and delivering sound financial policies, processes and procedures
• Ability to translate and communicate financial information and legal requirements effectively and transparently, to the Board and members

 

POST: Club Secretary

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Identifying and implementing effective administration of the Club, ensuring all systems and procedures run well and translate to success on the field
• Ensuring effective communication internally between the Board, Club Sections, Club Members; and externally with other clubs and leagues
• Managing, recording and filing all paperwork, club correspondence and making sure all necessary actions are followed up
• Providing required and necessary details to the RFU and Constituent Bodies (CB) 
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of club members, former members and stakeholders
• Organising the AGM, Management Board and club meetings, preparing agendas and paperwork, and taking minutes, communicating to all meeting attendees.
• Communicating any important matters between the RFU, CB, and leagues, showing a thorough understanding of the rules of all these bodies 
• Managing all legal and insurance matters
• Ensure all contacts details for the Club including appointed Club Officials is maintained and updated on a regular basis
• In conjunction with the other management officials, ensure publicised Club information is regularly reviewed, updated and distributed.
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club.

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Management of administration including the development of effective systems within an organisation
• Confident and good at communicating both orally, in writing and face-to-face
• Ability to organise and administer all aspects of meetings 
• Ability to operate with a high level of organisational skills and personal management skills
• IT literate with access to email

 

POST: Business Development Officer

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Create and drive a club business plan that will secure a sustainable and financially secure Club through effective relationship management with internal and external partners.  
• Creating and developing business opportunities that lead to income generation through the effective management of facilities both current and in the future and securing grant funding where appropriate.
• Developing a Marketing Strategy to achieve effective sales, marketing and communication to all stakeholders and partners across West Lancashire.
• In conjunction with the Communication and Events Officer identify and implement a consistent PR strategy that captures the Club image and ethos and builds a positive relationship with the media, RFU, Sports and Education networks, other local sports clubs, Local Authority and businesses
• Determining and achieving a range of sustainable income generation partnerships through sponsorships, advertising, fundraising options and maximising use of the clubhouse, working closely with the Treasurer and Communications and Events Officer.
• Maximising the participation of Club members and partners through regular events and activities.
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club.

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Business Management at a senior level in an organisation or business.
• Management of marketing and sales in a business or large organisation.
• Strategic leadership and management within a successful organisation. 
• Specialist expertise in business development and either grant funding, law, project or programme management, marketing, governance, communications, human resources or organisational development. 
• Ability to shape and develop clarity of vision and to develop and implement a comprehensive marketing and/or communications strategy.

 

POST: Club Communication and Events Officer

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Develop a Communications Strategy to raise the profile of the club to internal and external audiences
• Managing a Task Group to deliver positive and innovative communications/PR for the Club, making full use of all media and social media channels
• Developing and using internal channels (club newsletter, website, notice boards etc) and liaise with local and national media (press, TV, radio, web etc) to maximise publicity for the Club’s games, events and activities.
• In conjunction with the Business Development Officer identify and implement a consistent PR strategy that captures the Club image and ethos and builds a positive relationship with the media, RFU, Sports and Education networks, other local sports clubs, Local Authority and businesses
• Managing regular events and activities to maximise the participation of Club members and partners.
• Determining and achieving a range of sustainable income generation partnerships through sponsorships, advertising, fundraising options and maximising use of the clubhouse, working closely with the Treasurer and Business Development Officer
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club.

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Good working knowledge of communication strategy, PR, media, and communication techniques
• Ability to lead a team of people to achieve agreed outcomes
• Good management and organisational skills
• An excellent communicator, with experience of using all forms of the media and meticulous with details
• Passionate about rugby, the Club and is a team player

 

POST: Club Rugby/Sporting Director

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Directing and steering the shape, implementation and achievement of a Sports Development Plan that secures sustainable and viable rugby and related sports to be the community sports Club of choice in West Lancashire. 
• Clarifying and promoting the ethics, standards, and rules of club behaviour across the Club.
• Managing the provision and development of rugby including progression routes and playing opportunities to ensure that maximum use is made of developing, using, and retaining homegrown talent to ensure successful and sustainable teams at all levels in future years.
• Building and maintaining a positive playing experience through effective liaison with RFU to share best practice and liaison with Finance to ensure appropriate funds and resources are available
• Attend disciplinary meetings, Lancashire RFU meetings and other relevant external playing meetings.
• Provide guidance on kit requirements for each team and coordinate, with the agreement of the Treasurer, purchasing new equipment for team
• Ensure that rugby matches, and associated activities are run efficiently and safely.
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club.

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Management skills and experience.
• Strategic leadership and management within a successful organisation. 
• Specialist expertise in either: financial management, law, project or programme management, marketing, governance, human resources or organisational development. 
• Ability to shape and develop clarity of vision and to develop and implement strategy.
• Experience of planning and organising people, rugby matches, group activities in a safe manner promoting inclusion, diversity and best practice models.
• Ability to interpret and disseminate best practice and design and gain commitment to ethical standards of behaviour and practice.

 

POST: Membership and Registration Offices (2 Board positions)

Senior Section and MJS Section 

The Membership Secretaries coordinate the registration of existing and new players to the section, ensuring that all documentation for players is correct and any outstanding fees are received.   The Registration Secretaries are also responsible for maintaining accurate records on every player, ensuring that all information is relevant and correct. 

Overview of Core Responsibilities 

• Co-ordinate players registration day, including the collation of existing player information, collection and receipt of fees paid 
• Review Direct Debit subscription collections. 
• Assist in coordinating the issuing of Membership Cards for all Members, reviewing, and advising if subscriptions are cancelled to deactivate membership cards. 
• Assists with recruitment and publicity 
• Certifying the completion of new player documentation is correct and all necessary consent forms, fees and photographs are received 
• Register the new players on the RFU Rugby First and issue laminated ID card for each player using players name, RFU number and DOB 
• Assist in the collection of registration fees and keep detailed records for the treasurer 
• Holds and continually updates data and details of all members 
• Provide regular updates to management committee and coaches regarding details of registered players and outstanding registration fees 
• Liaise with the Child Welfare Officer regarding officials CRB status and handling sensitive player and parent data 
• Issue coaches and officials laminated ID cards using their CRB number and issue date.  
• Update Club notice boards with up-to-date coaches and management team contacts and photographs, fixtures for the season and handouts for players and parents 
• Attend monthly Committee and Coaches Meetings
  
  

POST: Safeguarding Officer  

The safeguarding officer ensures the safety and care of the young players within the section by ensuring that all coaches and volunteers are aware of their responsibilities during their duties and ensuring that safeguarding practices are promoted and maintained.  The safeguarding officer also makes sure that accurate records are kept for club volunteers and ensures the section meets the criteria set by the RFU for Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable adults in Rugby

 Overview of Core Responsibilities 

• To ensure that children and young players are provided with the highest possible standard of care by their coaches and volunteers
• To implement a child/young player protection policy 
• To raise awareness and understanding that abuse does happen in sport and to establish communication and reporting procedures 
• Liaison with team officials regarding changes in policy  
• Liaison with RFU child welfare officer  
• Managing and agreeing a course of action regarding any reported incidents  
• Maintenance of records regarding any reported incidents  
• Maintenance of child protection policy  
• Complete Safeguarding audits and documentation as required 
• Maintenance of records regarding club volunteers, their CRB reference numbers and expiry dates 
• Attend monthly Board and Coaches Meetings
   

POST: Coaching Co-ordinator 

The Coaching Coordinator ensures that the coaching provided to the club’s players is in line with RFU guidelines.  This includes making sure that all equipment used during coaching is fit for purpose and that all coaches have the necessary training and qualifications to provide coaching to players. 

Overview of Core Responsibilities 

• Liaison with all team officials, new coaches, and volunteers to the club regarding relevant courses available 
• Recruits, encourages, develops, and organises training for all club coaches 
• Liaises with CB and RFU on coaching courses 
• Acts as point of contact for all coaching queries 
• Maintenance of records regarding coaches and relevant qualifications, ensuring all teams comply with the minimum requirements per team – first aid, rugby ready, level 1/2 etc  
• Attend monthly Committee and Coaches Meetings 
• Provide guidance on kit requirements for each team and coordinate, with the agreement of the treasurer, purchasing new equipment for team 
• Provide and assist with coaching plans, layouts, places, and equipment requests 
• Update coaches on selection process for academies and regional squads 
• Involvement and input into new coaching information guide

 

POST: Fixtures Secretary (non-Board position)

The Fixture Secretary is responsible for arranging most of the sections matches, allocating pitches and ensuring that each home match is officiated by a referee. The Fixture Secretary acts as the main link between the club, Lancashire RFU and other clubs.  

Overview of Core Responsibilities 

• Point of reference between league and teams 
• Contacts all team members regarding fixture list and individual matches 
• To arrange following seasons fixtures and liaise with fixture secretaries of other clubs on a weekly basis to confirm forthcoming weekly fixtures
• Maintain good communications between all parties involved, to ensure smooth running of the fixtures throughout the season 
• Communicate with Lancashire Rugby regarding Cup Competitions 
• Communicate with ORUFC coaches, catering, and bar staff on a weekly basis 
• Arrange referees on a weekly basis to officiate at home matches 
• Allocate pitches for home matches between Green Lane and Church Fields 
• Attend monthly Committee and Coaches Meetings 
• Attend Lancashire Fixture Secretary Meetings and Lancashire Cup Draws 
• Communicate next season's fixtures list to all coaches and club officials 

 

POST: Health and Safety Officer (Non board position)

Overview of Core Responsibilities

• Develop a Health & Safety strategy to improve the Club’s activities and compliance for internal and agencies
• Report to the Club Chairman and work closely with other board members as required
• Review all Health safety compliance and current documentation and improve as appropriate
• Plan a health and safety budget for the tax year ending end April 2024
• Track all Health & Safety spend in tax year end April 2023
• To participate, support and volunteer at events held by the club

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Great working knowledge of Health and safety legislation and of to show awareness of future requirements
• Ability to lead a team of people to achieve agreed outcomes
• Good management and organisational skills
• An excellent communicator, with experience of using all forms of the media and meticulous with details
• Passionate about rugby, the Club, and is a team player