"The Minis not only hosted a hugely successful tournament in October 2012, but also competed in many others, winning many trophies across all age groups. The Juniors, couldn't quite match last season's whitewashing of all Bucks cup and league competitions, but still managed two Bucks cup wins and league winners at all age groups. Again. their season was brought to a successful conclusion at the A&C 10s tournament in April.
The four senior teams all played well. The 4XV went all the to final of Herts & Middx knockout, unfortunately losing their last game. The 3XV went one better winning their BBO league and securing promotion. The 2XV had a frustrating season with many clubs withdrawing again from the Shield league. And our 1XV finished the second half of the season strongly to take eigth place in the league, the highest achievement ever for the club - and also made the Bucks Cup Final, but no date could be agreed, so it was shared between A&C and Marlow.
One of the most significant achievements was the launch of the Academy, giving 24 boys aged between 15 and 18 the opportunity to develop their ability and skills. This has been a major success thanks to the leadership of Matt Allen and David Choules.
Off the pitches, there have been many successful events - the annual Fireworks, Sportsman Dinners and Summer Ball to mention a few.
The capital investment continues with the redevelopment of the car park and ongoing improvements to all pitches. The drainage scheme on 2XV pitch was very successful enabling a full season of play and over this summer new drainage was been installed on 1XV pitch. And, with the recent blistering heatwave we have been able to make full use of our invaluable borehole, allowing pitches to be watered every day.
All present were asked to join in thanking all AGOs, coaches, volunteers and Committee members for their contribution and support throughout the season.
The major challenge last season had been coping with some unexpected financial challenges. Revenues were hit towards Christmas due to weather interruptions reducing the number of home matches etc; maintenance costs included a new boiler and kitchen equipment; other costs included bills from previous season which had not filed by suppliers. However, excluding depreciation, the club managed to balance income and expenditure. Tight controls will need to remain in place to ensure this season's budget is met and the club continues its stable financial position.
Looking forward to next season "off the pitch", we have launched our new Pitchero website and we are planning our biggest ever Club tour to Arnhem to pay tribute to former Chiltern player Lt Jack Grayburn VC on the 70th Anniversary of the Battle for Arnhem. "On the pitch" we look forward to the excitement and quality of Level 5 rugby with our 1XV, three other senior teams all in new leagues and even the reinstatement of our vets team, the Chiltern 100s. Of course, Minis. Juniors and Academy will go from strength to strength.
Treasurer Jane Grundy presented the Annual Accounts (unanimously approved) and accountants Myers Clark reappointed. The Executive Committee was elected with all members successful, but the roles of Bucks CRFU and RFU representatives were split, and Dave Neale, player and 3XV coach, was elected as Bucks CRFU rep.
Subscriptions for next season were proposed by Membership Secretary Sarah Greenstreet (unanimously approved), including the adoption of new Membership Cards which will also be payment cards to buy food and drinks in the clubhouse with 10% discount.
The "Spectator of the Season" award was won jointly by Juliet and Rob Maxey. The meeting was closed by President Peter Osborne proposing a vote of thanks to the Chairman and his Committee for another great year."