TRUSTEES REPORT2023
The season passed was a success in many ways. During the year we welcomed 13 new members to the club. At a time when many clubs are struggling this is an excellent achievement. Ballyholme Ladies agreed to link with our club this year due to their NIWBA regulations and I thank them for doing so. I hope all the ladies who have joined continue to do so, and contribute to the future success of the club.
We introduced our new shirt and jacket this year. All members seemed to like the new design and quality of the gear.
On the playing front, we expected to be playing in Division 3 this year. However, we got a welcome reprieve when the leagues had to be restructured after Balmoral left the NIBA for the PGL.
Doubters would have expected us to struggle again, but we proved them wrong finishing in 6[th] position (out of 11) with a record of 10 wins 1 draw and 9 losses.
In the NIBA Intermediate Cup we were defeated in the semi-final by Dungannon, and in the IBA Intermediate Cup we were defeated in the quarter finals by a strong Ulster Transport side who went on to win the cup.
In the Super 6s we reached the semi-finals having defeated Bangor, Castle and Donaghadee on the way. Unfortunately we were beaten by Banbridge who went on to win the competition.
In further success on the bowling green a rink led by Mr Bewley won Castles 75[th] anniversary competition.
Rinks night continued to attract a good number of members. However due to extra matches having to be played on a Tuesday night the rinks were severely disrupted.
Lastly, the next 2 years will be significant for our club. At the NIBA AGM in November I will be formally proposed to be Vice President of the NIBA in 2024 and President of the NIBA in 2025. It will be 31 years since the club last held that position so as a club we are honoured and delighted to have this opportunity. It will also coincide with the 50[th] anniversary of me joining North Down in 1975.
Rodney Simpson
Honorary Secretary