The Annual General Meeting of members of Pontefract Rugby Football Club Limited on 16 July 2019 was, as always, hugely entertaining. For those who were unable to attend, you don’t know what you missed! In summary:

Phil Atkinson, as incoming Chairman, expressed the Club’s thanks to John Cockcroft for a cracking six years as Club Chairman and gave an upbeat projection for the Club going forward.

Craig and Parky reviewed our excellent playing performance in 2018/19 and spoke about coaching goals, playing discipline, development and welfare.

Carl Smith painted a rosy picture of the Club’s delicately balanced finances. (The audited financial statements are available to members; just ask Carl and he will gladly send you a copy.)

The following officers of the Executive Board were elected: Phil Atkinson (Chair), Neil Bowmer (President), Carl Smith (Treasurer), Declan O’Mullane (Secretary), Mick Parkinson (Director of Rugby) and Tim Williamson (Chair of Junior Rugby).

The following members were elected to the General Committee: Jonny Hill (Media, Communications and IT), Andy Crommack (Chair of Women’s and Girls Rugby), Alan Copley (Grounds and Facilities), Tony Dedicoat (Bar, Catering and Clubhouse), Rich Hardisty (Rugby Development), Simon Fletcher (Business Development) and Steve Hough (without portfolio, for the time being).

Craig will continue as Head Coach and Glen Boyd as Club Captain. The Second XV has Scott Hawkins as Captain and Billy Coleman as Vice-Captain (or Co-Captains as Parky likes to think of them). Declan will continue as Third XV captain and the Vets have Dave Pursglove at the helm.

Everyone is looking forward to another great season. Our aim is to give this group of players the best opportunity to be successful.