Three unpredictable factors played a big hand in the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union presenting a $759,058.00 loss to stakeholders, at the Annual General Meeting held on Sunday 24th February 2008.

The well-documented problems, of the Union major sponsor Blue Chip (who made just one sponsorship payment during the financial year) contributed to a third of the loss. While every endeavour will be taken to recover some compensation from Blue Chip, the Union had no option but to show the outstanding amount in the balance sheet.

Along with most of the rugby unions in the country, the Bay Union took a big hit in the gate takings, from the Air New Zealand Cup matches played at home.  A sixty five per cent drop in gate takings had a big impact on the Unions finances.
BOPRU President Bruce Dodge summed up the situation in his report to the AGM.  "The future of unions such as Bay of Plenty is squarely in the hands of the New Zealand Rugby Union".  "By increasing the number of teams in the Air New Zealand Cup, from ten to fourteen in 2006, they stretched the financial resources of most unions to breaking point".

An increase of ninety five thousand dollars, in Steamers player payments, was brought about because of the serious injury toll to players.  The increase in player payments was necessitated by the need to field 39 players during the season.

Funding channelled into amateur rugby during the season was an investment in the future grass roots game.  The climax of the club rugby season, was fought out at the Rotorua International Stadium during August, wiht the staging of six Baywide finals, in front of a large crowd.

A significant achievement for Bay rugby during the last twelve months has been a big increase in player participation.  During the last two years, player numbers have increased by nearly twenty percent, while the national average has plummeted four per cent.

Another investment in the future of the game in the Bay of Plenty was the representative program (below the Steamers).  Two Northern Regional titles, and a clean sweep of Waikato age group sides, bear testament to the talent reservoir in the Bay.

The newly elected Board of the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union - will face a myriad of challenges, to get the Union financial situation brought back on track.  It is certain, that the new Board will take a close look at the Union expenses, with each financial sector closely scrutinised.

A marketing push to get new local sponsors on Board has already paid dividends, with several commercial businesses having signed their commitment, to supporting the Bay Union.  The marketing effort will continue wiht Steamers Coach Kevin Schuler getting out to press the flesh with potential sponsors.

For more information please contact Stuart Harvey, CEO at:
E: stuart@boprugby.co.nz
M: 0274 780 970