May Update from the Chairman
19th May 2025
Overall, it's been a very good year for Grasshoppers. The 1st XV finished mid Table and arguably could have challenged for a higher ranking, nevertheless, playing some thrilling rugby. Gratifying to know is that several Colts played Senior rugby and several new players made a significant impact to the 1st XV. Developing young talent remains a strategic objective not only from within but also through alliances such as with St Mary’s University. Starting a Girls Senior team is a major milestone for the Club. The Netball Section remains very strong with 3 regular teams / squads.
The great number of volunteers active on each and every Sunday of the season are continuing to play an important part in sustaining Grasshoppers into the future. Special thanks to the Section Chairs and Coaches for their dedication and the excellent results achieved again.
The leadership organisation of Grasshoppers has been strengthened by further developing the Board (for GRFSSC) and expanding the Executive Committee, to be renamed the Club Committee. The Directors are accountable for the running of the club while Club Committee members are responsible for individual sections or specific activities and initiatives.
There are, and will continue to be, significant challenges for Grasshoppers; the facilities are superb but are expensive to maintain and need to be rented out for 3rd party income and this increases wear and tear especially on the pitches but elsewhere too. Investments required are under continuous review by the Board and expenditures are considered carefully.
Improvements to the Club’s finances have been made but those efforts will need to continue as the Club seek ways to ensure that major costs are affordable. The Club now needs to think longer term as the 3G is now 7 years old so at about its half-way mark. Costs will be further reduced where possible but revenues need to increase largely from through targeting 3rd parties but also by encouraging our members to spend more time at the Club. Member spending is down this year and membership receipts are reduced, notably and disappointingly by the Senior Rugby group.
We intend to consolidate our Senior Rugby, expand our relationships with schools and colleges, improve pathways to adult rugby and continue to develop all our coaches so that what we offer to all our members is as good as we can make it. We have built a good reputation as a sports and social venue, so we also aim to build on this to develop more income streams.
There will be continued efforts to bring some big events to Grasshoppers as this has the potential for a significant contribution to the Club.
There will be continued efforts to bring some big events to Grasshoppers as this has the potential for a significant contribution to the Club.
There have been important changes in the management of GRFSSC with the appointment of Tracy Atkinson-Reilly as Operations and Facilities Manager and she now has overall responsibility for the commercial running of the Club and all the facilities.
As ever, our Shared Values of inclusivity, diversity, respect and responsibility will be at the forefront of all our Club activities.
Rob Jones,
Chairman, GRFSSC
Chairman, GRFSSC
