A message from Mark West - 2024 Manly Brothers President

This is the first official club correspondence since the AGM which was held on 19th November, and my first as Club President. 
 
First of all, I want to acknowledge all of the hard work which Greg has put into the role over the past few years. Despite the health challenges he has faced in the last couple of seasons, he has continued to devote his time and energy into the club, and I wish him all the best as he continues this battle.
 
For those that I am yet to meet, I am Mark West (better known at Nolans as ‘Birdy’), and I am currently involved with our U12’s team (U/13’s in 2024), and have been for the last 7 years. My involvement with Brothers goes back to 1986, where I was the ball boy for my brothers under 6’s side, until I strapped on the boots myself in 1988. Since then I have played over 25 seasons in the cerise and blue, including our lone senior premiership in 2007 (one which I hope we can add to in the near future!). I have been a player, trainer, manager, committee member, sponsorship coordinator, and have now stepped into the role as president that I always aspired to one day hold. I look forward to giving it the best shot I can.
 
Other committee members elected at the AGM were:
Vice President – Peter Burge
Vice President – Gary Malcolm
Treasurer – Foxy
Secretary – Jacky McCauley
Marketing and Comms – Rebecca Simpson and Francesca Dolly
Coaching Coordinator – Trent McCann
 
Last year saw a large increase in general committee members volunteering for the club, and I step into the role knowing there are people in the club willing to put in time and effort to ensure the ongoing success of the club. With their support, and the support of all our members and supporters, I look forward to seeing growth in participation, and engagement across the club.
 
There will be some things that as a committee we will need assistance with, such as setting up the fields for home games, cooking the BBQ, assisting in the canteen, and planning social events, etc. We will welcome and encourage any assistance that you may be able to provide.
 
Our biggest challenge will be to establish teams in our U6-U9’s age groups this year, as last year we did not have 6’s or 7’s, and our 8’s were only able to field a team by being propped up by the younger kids playing above their own age group. The focus will be to instil confidence that we are providing a safe and enjoyable environment for kids to learn about our great game of rugby league, and to encourage participation, and an active lifestyle for kids of all skill levels.
 
Registrations have opened (click here to commence registration, or here if you need a step by step guide to help you through), so please jump in and get your child registered, and we encourage all returning and new players to do the same.
 
I’m looking forward to a really successful, and enjoyable 2024 at Manly Brothers. I’m looking forward to meeting those of you I have not yet met, and catching up with all of the familiar faces in the new year.
 
If you have any suggestions for things you would like to see done at the club, I look forward to your suggestions / comments / feedback. You can email me at president@manlybrothers.com.au
 
I hope you all have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.
 
Birdy