Coach Bert Ramage has taken over the presidency of Arran Rugby Club.
There was a mood of elation in the Ormidale Pavilion at the club’s annual meeting last Monday, as two days earlier the team had secured promotion to Division Two, West Regional League, with a nail-biting one-point victory over Hyndland and the players had held a few celebrations at the weekend.
Outgoing president Chris Marriott gave his annual report before handing over to Bert Ramage who was unanimously appointed after being proposed by Chris and seconded by Murray Boal.
Chris said: ‘I’m sure everybody is chuffed to bits with Saturday’s result. Twelve months ago Bert said that he was going to have a serious team and he has more than delivered.
‘The guys have come on superbly and shown great commitment. I think we should give a round of applause to Bert and the coaching team.’
Bert then gave his own coach’s report and praised the contribution of first team captain Murray Picken. He said: ‘We gave it a crack this year and like Chris I never expected to really get promotion. I have to thank the players for their efforts, and parents and coaches for support.’
He said he would be giving up all the club administration duties from now. ‘I just want to coach a team and it is up to the committee to decide which team,’ he added.
It was agreed that Bert will coach the seniors and some of the senior players would train the high school midi players. Murray Boal and Chris Marriott will once again coach the minis. Bert said: ‘Some of the senior boys could coach high school boys and girls and then go on to their own training.’
Margo Wheeler was reappointed treasurer, Ann Tattersfield was appointed secretary and Niall McMaster was appointed senior club vice-captain.
The club has 76 registered players and looks to be going from strength to strength.
