News

Dear Counties Manukau Rugby community,

 We hope you are keeping well in these uncertain times. As you will no doubt have heard by now, the Government has announced that we are going into a Level 4 nationwide lockdown from midday on Wednesday. As a result, we are going to have to postpone next week’s AGM for the foreseeable future.

 We understand the constitution requires we hold the AGM before the end of any given year. However, we feel the current climate of uncertainty around COVID-19 makes this an extenuating circumstance.

 At this stage, we would like to reschedule the AGM to 4pm on Sunday, May 31. Hopefully by this time things have settled down and we can proceed as per the agenda.

 While there’s no doubt the business climate is challenging at present and it’s unlikely our finances will be as rosy in 12 months, there is plenty of good to reflect on from 2019. The Union reported a net surplus last year of $29,510 and every penny of that will count in the coming months. The Steelers had a disappointing season, but the year finished on a high with our women’s team winning the National 7’s tournament.

We’ve also made changes to our Steelers coaching team and we are hoping the appointment of Tai Lavea as our new head coach will pay dividends in the coming months if the Mitre 10 Cup goes ahead. Fingers crossed. But first, we look forward to a return of club rugby, whenever that may be. I think it’s fair to say we are all missing our weekly dose of rugby right now!

From a financial perspective, I am working with the board on a plan to navigate our Union through this crisis. We are monitoring our costs and budgeting for a significant shortfall in anticipated revenue. We will continue to belt tighten and do everything we can to keep our organisation running during these unprecedented times.

 Wishing you and your families all the best.

 Regards and stay safe.

 Aaron Lawton - Genral Manager, Craig Carter - Chairperson