1.0 Present:
H Evers
S Johnson
S Grundy
I Johnson (part)
B. Whitley
M. Whitley
T Durant
A Marshall
J Hope
M Schlag
B Day
K Worsnop
K Horner
H Leacock
P Johnson (PJ)
G Allen (part)
A Harrison (part)
2.0 Apologies:
C Broadbent
D Broadbent
M Evers
[Everyone present were shown the changing rooms, kit room and pitches by Scott and Ian]
3.0 Introduction
After returning from the tour of the facilities Sam welcomed the attendees to the meeting and briefly explained the proposed agenda.
4.0 Officers
Although no official titles have been allocated, Scott, Harry and Sam have been dealing with the finances, Morley rent, RFL, Tag Merit League, equipment, etc. There were no other volunteers nor nominees for the duties therefore it was agreed that they continue the good work.
5.0 Subs
Sam explained the problems last year with lack of funds and that Scott had paid some bills himself when the club could not afford it. It was agreed that this should not happen in future. The suggestion was that the subs be increased to £3 to build up a “float” in the accounts for any unforeseen expenditures and also for the presentation night, etc.
During the discussions it was agreed that the accounts were being closely monitored by Scott which should prevent a repeat of last year. Scott confirmed that the accounts were currently approximately £300 in credit.
It was proposed that the subs remain at £2 per week but are reviewed during the summer to ensure that this is sufficient, if Scott sees the accounts dwindling he will notify the members and the subs can be raised to £3 if necessary. This was decided by a majority vote.
6.0 Tag League
Sam explained the proposed changes in the Tag Merit League which was being taken over by the RFL. This would ensure that the rules were strictly non-contact, virtually as we play each week.
Gareth and Adam H left the meeting.
Discussions took place regarding the RFL proposed points system at Tournaments and the fees for each player. It was not clear whether the £10 fee covered all the festivals and also the insurance that we currently pay for. Sam, Scott and Harry to check with Tom Allen (RFL).
Teams are also encouraged to play friendly games as well as the tournaments/festivals. The Lost Loiners are planning to attend the Murrayfield tournament, Rochdale Festival and also are scheduled to play a friendly at Bridgend on the 10th April. It was agreed that we would not attempt to play at every one.
Scott, Sam & Harry are to get confirmation of tournament dates, venues and whether they are mixed sexes or not, as soon as possible, to plan teams and transport, etc. Scott explained that the Scorpions are playing against Hunslet on 22nd August and that if they wanted to play us that day it could be a curtain-raiser! It was agreed that Harry would contact Bridgend.
7.0 Hunslet Offer
Ian Johnson (Hunslet) was invited to address the meeting and explain the offer from Hunslet Hawks. The offer is described on the previous note to members (attached).
Discussions took place regarding the offer which highlighted the following concerns:
• The all-weather pitches would possibly be unavailable in snow and/or heavy frost.
• The travel distance from Bradford, Huddersfield and Halifax is greater and would make a 7pm start more difficult.
• The training pitch is a considerable walk from the changing rooms which potentially adds to the delayed start.
• If we moved to Hunslet and things didn’t work out would we have burnt our boats with Morley?
• We would have to change the club name and we have just spent a lot of money on a new kit!
Advantages were also discussed:
• Free training at Hunslet
• More options for pitches when flooded.
• Funding towards kit, equipment and transport to games
• Free use of function room for events, subject to availability
• Closer to Wakefield and Leeds therefore easier for some members
After some discussions and alternative suggestions the consensus was to vote on the proposal to accept the partnership with Hunslet Hawks for the next 12 months at least but still train at Morley and pay £2 subs. The annual rent at Morley will be paid in full by June and will be due for renewal in September. The situation will be reviewed in August. We would however hold a coaching/training session at South Leeds once every month, or so. This would enable us to compare the two venues and the travel situation, etc. The name Lost Loiners could be retained as a nickname if desired.
This proposal was agreed by a majority vote.
The meeting was closed by Sam who thanked everyone for attending.
