2020 has obviously been one of the strangest years in our history, with the first suspension of a season since the 1940's. Despite this the club remained active with charitable fundraisers for bushfire affected communities, and for Hope Bereavement via our virtual 'Walk to Alice Springs' which raised over $9,000. We also ran our live streamed spinning wheel on Thursday nights which not only raised much needed funds but also kept us connected to members and supporters.
We eventually saw the return of junior football which provided over 250 kids with the opportunity to get out on the park, albeit for only 3 weeks. This was far from easy to manage and our junior co-ordinators and volunteers did an amazing job to meet Covid-safe standards.
At our recent AGM, held outside at the Drysdale Hotel, all but one of our committee successfully stood for re-election providing great stability for the club. David Walder will again head the committee as President for a third term, and his amazing enthusiasm has only been strengthen by this difficult year. It was also reported at the AGM that the club recorded a financial surplus thanks to fundraising and the support of our amazing sponsors.
We are now ready to embark on the 2021 season, with Senior men's training resuming on Nov 24th at Stockdale & Leggo Oval (Belchers Road) under the guidance of senior coach Luke Matthews. As reported Luke's former co-coach Daniel Jull has stepped aside leaving Luke to go it alone with the support of some great assistant coaches. Our Lady Hawks commenced their preseason training a week earlier than the boys, again under the watchful eye of coach Stuart Craven.
Whilst the exact timing of the 2021 season is as yet unknown, the recent run of zero new Covid cases in Victoria, along with positive news about vaccines, provides us with hope of an April start date.
Until then we want to again thank all of our members, sponsors and supporters for their support this year and we wish you and your families all of the best for the upcoming holiday season.
We look forward to welcoming you back to our great club in 2021.
