Buller rugby April 2016 update

~ News from the Chairman ~

Hi all

With senior rugby now underway and JAB teams ready to go, I thought I would update you all on what’s happening in Buller rugby.

Sadly our senior competition has been reduced to four teams in the 2016 season. All of the clubs have battled for player numbers and unfortunately Old Boys have had to make the tough decision not to field a senior side in 2016. Brian, Andrew and the Board members have worked hard to attract players on behalf of all of the clubs and, while we have had some success, the Old Boys club have suffered most from player unavailability.

We all know the current economic and employment situation in the Buller and for all rugby clubs and, indeed all sporting codes, this looks like being the future.

The Board continues to look for ways to maximise player numbers in all grades and we all need to think outside the box to keep rugby strong going forward.

Compounding local player shortages, the arrival of our overseas players has been delayed. This is due mainly to communication hold ups in Fiji along with Immigration NZ delays. Hopefully all teams will soon have these players available.

After much discussion and consultation with clubs, it has been decided that senior club rugby will consist of 3 rounds and a play-off series in 2016. This allows some weekends off for all players, which should help all teams manage injuries and player availability.

The recent coaching clinic organised by Andrew was a great success and my thanks to Andrew, his helpers and all those who took time to attend. The next events are already being planned.

Health and safety has been in the spotlight throughout the country of late, and rugby will be affected by the recent changes in legislation. While we wait on advice from NZR the Board and staff are reviewing all aspects of Buller rugby with a view to keeping everyone involved as safe as possible. An example of what is happening nationally is a much tougher stance on enforcing players wear mouth guards at all times. There is also a new code of practice coming around player concussion injuries and recovery.

I ask all club officials, coaches, players, parents and caregivers to give player safety their highest priority and cooperate with Buller rugby and the referees at all times.

The NZRU AGM takes place on the 28^th of April and Brian and I will be representing the Buller Union.

Enjoy your season and as always please don’t hesitate to contact me or any Board member to discuss rugby issues.

John Lennon

Chairman