Talent, local knowledge and facilities will be key areas

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Appreciating its people will be key to the Poverty Bay Rugby Football Union hitting its straps, says new chairman Hayden Swann.

That means nurturing talent and tapping into local knowledge, as well as continuing to push for facilities the region can be proud of.

“Coming out of last year, we’ve got a strong emphasis on local coaches, local players and supporting development of our clubs,” Swann said.

“I’m also really keen to work with the council and funders to have playing facilities that are well looked after. We need to be proud of our facilities.”

Swann has taken over from George Brown, who remains on the union’s board.

Brown had provided “strength and steady leadership” as the union changed its governance structures.

“It has been a pleasure to serve as the deputy chair under George for the 2018 season,” Swann said.

The union was in an “exciting” position this year, ready to develop and support players, referees, volunteers, coaches, clubs and schools.

Swann, principal at Makaraka School, said intermediate and high school students needed to play in meaningful competitions as “the future of our game lies with players coming through”.

Those players should have good playing facilities, which could also help grow participation in sport.

The Gisborne District Council has a strategy for upgrading sports facilities such as Rugby Park in the next 30 years and has committed initial funding to plan and implement it.

Brown thanked the board for their teamwork in what was, at times, a challenging year.

“Working with a very loyal and supportive board is a highlight,” he said.

Brown said Swann had his full support.