Rugby Union SA held its Annual General Meeting, on the 15th of May 2023.
Rugby Union SA continues to report consistent, strong financials in 2022 reporting a surplus of $19,885.
Our organisation has continued to see growth in regular player numbers, building from the prior COVID impacts with a further increase of regular players from 2021 by 6% across all clubs.
Grants funding from Rugby Australia, SA Government and sponsorships has reverted with some certainty to pre-covid amounts with sponsors confident in honouring agreements, which was more difficult during COVID.
Meredith Knowler stands down from her Member-Elected Board position after 15 years. Colleague and friend, Elena Casciano presented Meredith with flowers during an emotional farewell.
“Meredith took a leap of faith many years ago and put her hand up to become a director. Not only was she the first female on the board, she was the youngest. She has led by example both on the field and through her leadership on the board”
“I have made many lifetime friends through the rugby community and I will continue to assist the board moving forward, providing support with the strategic and implementation plans. I really do love being a part of this community and I’m excited for what happens next” responded Meredith through the tears.
Vivienne Oakley from Southern Suburbs was voted through to fill the position vacated by Meredith.
In a historic first for Rugby Union South Australia, three female Player Life Members were unanimously endorsed by the community: Emma Yates and Sarah Batzavalis both from Southern Suburbs and Kathryn van Diemen from Burnside.
Kim Evans was also endorsed as a Life Member for her many years of service to Rugby Union, not just in South Australia, but to Rugby Australia as well.
“Its fantastic that we can recognise the playing achievements of all these women who have been a part of our community for over 20 years. We have the first female Playing Life Members but they won’t be the last. All these women are role models to the next generation of players, leading by example either as coaches or serving with their club committees and we couldn’t be prouder as a community to endorse their nominations."
In closing, Mike von Berg gave thanks to our community.
“Thanks for the fantastic efforts of the board, staff, volunteers and referees who make our game a success.
At the end of the day, it’s all about having fun, and we know how to have fun!”
2022 Annual Report can be accessed here.
