Ballinamere GAA Club Strategic Plan

Transcription

1 Ballinamere GAA Club Strategic Plan

2 Contents Chairman s Address 3 Message from Underage Chairperson 4 Message from Ladies Football Chairperson 5 Camogie 6 Message from Scór Chairperson 6 Message from Strategic Plan Chairperson 7 Ballinamere Club Listings 8 Club History 9 History of Club Crest 10 Methodology 11 Mission, Vision, Values 12 Coaching and Games Development 13 Club Structures and Administration 15 Finance and Fundraising 17 Facilities and Development 19 Communications / PR and Social / Cultural 21 Appendix A 24

3 Chairman s Address Táim an-bhró dúil bheith mar Chathaoirleach ar chlub Baile na Maor im blain agus an phlean seo a lainseáil. Ballinamere GAA Club has been central to the community in this area since its foundation over 130 years ago. Over those many years the club has served the members and the community extremely well. These are exciting times in the club, membership & participation across all ages continue to rise, with our young & not so young people enjoying the benefits of community and team based sport, exercise, competition and camaraderie leading to lifelong friendships. With a larger membership comes additional pressure on our facilities. In that regard I m delighted to say that we are currently finalising plans for our new development which will be a welcome boost to the club. With that in mind, I wish to thank our patrons who have contributed to our development fund to date as we look forward to nurturing our wonderful club for future generations. This plan will provide us with a roadmap to grow and develop our club, and outline where we would like to be in five years time. We want to attract the maximum number of young people to play our games, make it a safe and enjoyable experience and yet, create an environment where they can be ambitious to compete at the highest possible level. Over the period of the plan we will critically assess our position and measure our progress through a process of regular reviews. On the occasion of the launch of our Strategic Plan , I would like to acknowledge the contribution of our club and committee members to it completion, and I believe that with the support of the club members, the aims of our five year plan can be brought to fruition. Míle buíochas daoibh go léir. Donal O Brien Cathaoirleach

4 Message from Underage Chairperson Ballinamere/ Durrow GAA Underage Club has enjoyed a period of significant growth in terms of player participation, coach recruitment and on field success over the past few years. Four years ago we had 155 boys & 49 girls registered with just 14 coaches active. Today we have 231 boys & 108 girls registered with an incredible 48 coaches involved. There have been a number of key driving factors including: The setting up of the club nursery catering for children between the ages of 4 & 6. The unprecedented growth of our Ladies Football. The recruitment and training of 34 new coaches. The development and nurturing of relationships with key personnel in both Durrow & Ballinamere national schools. The provision of almost year round well organised and high level coaching to our children including SAQ & fitness testing. The high level and professional quality of our communication & interaction with our valued parents. The development of our social committee who provide 2 BBQ s a year but more importantly the refreshments after matches where parents, children, coaches & opponents can interact. A continued & ongoing emphasis on looking after our players' welfare. In this regard measures such as Child Protection courses and annual Garda vetting are now ingrained in our culture. The embracing of the Go Games model which has had a direct influence on our player development and retention. The hard work and unity of our small decisive committee has been vital. Close and valued working relationship with both Ballinamere and Durrow adult clubs with the inter- club forum being a particularly beneficial initiative. 2 nd largest cúl camp in Offaly. To continue the good work that has been done we need to ensure that we can continue to train and field 19+ teams. As mentioned earlier neither Durrow or Ballinamere have ever been found wanting in terms of support particularly when it came to provision of pitches. However we have simply out grown the facilities and we need more room. I urge you to please support the fund raising efforts that will be undertaken over the next 12 months by Ballinamere GAA as they seek to develop the new pitch at Ballinamere. Michael Duignan/ Eoin O Ceilleachair Cathaoirleach Cóiste na nóg

5 Message from Ladies Football Chairperson Ballinamere Durrow Ladies Football began seven years ago with about six girls and one coach. This year we now have in excess of hundred girls registered together with 16 coaches. We are delighted with the progress we have made and have so many people to thank for helping along the way. The first year we played only challenge games, mainly against Clara who were very helpful with advice and support. The Ballinamere Durrow Underage Club were extremely supportive to us as were Durrow Football GAA Club. The first few years, we trained on the same night as the boys but as numbers grew in both girls and boys this was no longer tenable. So thanks to the two clubs mentioned we got our own evening to train, Thursday, which we still have today. In fact, we now train up to four times a week with different teams. Following on from the challenge games we entered an U10 team in a league six years ago and we began to grow from there. Two years later we qualified for our first Offaly County Final beating St. Broughans in an exciting semi final. While we lost the final narrowly to Shamrocks, we were up and running. The following year we won our first silverware when our U14's won the Shield Final by beating St. Rynaghs. Later the same week on a memorable Sunday morning we won our first County B Final when our U12's beat Rhode after extra time. Since then we have won several competitions including another U12 County Final and a B Feile Final both last year. We are proud to be now playing in the A championships this year and competing very well in both U12 and U14. We are also very proud that for the first time this year we had a strong and competitive U16 team, who went on to become County Champions. However winning competitions was never the main motivation behind setting up a Ladies Football Club. It was, and still is, to provide enjoyable exercise, a sense of belonging and an opportunity to learn new skills for the girls of Ballinamere Durrow. It gives them a chance to meet their friends and make new ones in a positive environment. As previously mentioned we certainly could not have achieved the participation levels we have without huge support from the Ballinamere Durrow Underage Club, Durrow & Ballinamere Clubs, various sponsors but most of all an incredibly supportive group of parents, so many of whom help out in coaching, at committee level or simply show great support by tirelessly chauffeuring the girls to training in Durrow and Ballinamere and all over Offaly for matches. No matter what plans we put in place, we could not continue without this commitment. For the last two years in particular we have worked closely with the boys club and I think it has enhanced both clubs as so many parents have children in both camps. The sharing of courses in coaching, first aid, child protection and Garda clearance, as well as equipment and facilities are areas where it has been an advantage to work together. The nursery, SAQ training & fitness testing during the winter and the enjoyable club barbeque are also things in which both boys and girls participate. A challenge now will be to continue to grow the club, maintain the participation levels and to progress to minor and adult level. I feel that if the support we have received up to now is anything to go by we have every chance of succeeding in these aims. John Lydon Cathaoirleach Peil na mban

6 Camogie Ballinamere has strong links with Tullamore camogie for the last 40 years. The camogie club has coaches from Ballinamere at all levels in Tullamore and they have a provision of players and pitches. Tullamore camogie have registration for their members from Ballinamere and Durrow at our underage night. Hopefully the strong link with Tullamore will continue to promote camogie. Message from Scór Chairperson Bail ó Dhia oraibh. While we will strive to promote Ballinamere s club games and coaching programmes at all levels we will also endeavour to promote the cultural side of our club, promoting and celebrating both the diversity of our membership and our community s longstanding Gaelic traditions. As part of our proposal to strengthen our club s role within the wider community we strive to promote the cultural side of the club and to attract people who, though might not have any interest in becoming an active club member but who will appreciate an opportunity to enjoy community based social events with a Gaelic hue. All our members and supporters are connected through traditional and new media. Our club is a social outlet for people of all ages and gives people an opportunity to promote their sense of Irishness. We will increase the use of Irish language in our club affairs and encourage people to use whatever cúpla focal they have. We will include the use of Gaeilge ag an gcruinniú where members will be encouraged to meet and greet trí meán na Gaeilge. We will develop a strategy to develop bi-lingual signage around our club grounds and community centre. We will continue to promote Irish song, music & dance in the Ballinamere area. Our vibrant community centre will continue to be available for weekly set dancing classes and monthly céilí. Our local youth who have a grá for Irish music will continue to be welcomed to practice in the community centre as they prepare to participate and contest in seisiún, scór, Fleadh Cheoil na héireann, Mummers festival etc. They in turn will showcase their talents to entertain different social groups in our area, eg Active Retirement Group. There have been many local families synonymous with Scór down through the years in the local Ballinamere area. We will continue to re energise and promote Scór and Scór na nóg among club members as a great opportunity for people who may not participate in our games to become involved and become part of the Ballinamere club. Go néirí an tádh leis an bplean Forbartha. Beir bua!

7 Message from Strategic Plan Chairperson A chairde, It is with pleasure as Chairperson of the Club Strategic Committee, that I present to you the Ballinamere Strategic Plan It is envisaged that the plan will provide a framework to grow and develop our club further in the next five years, in a co-ordinated fashion. The plan is devised in a manner which encourages people to take ownership and responsibility for club development in all areas. It is foreseen that each person involved is fully aware of their role in the club, that these roles be monitored by the club executive, and that suitable people are assigned to each role. The success of the plan will ultimately be decided by the strength of the people assigned to the various positions. The GAA has become a massive organisation and society now demands much more of it than it once did. It now must involve itself in issues such as Health & Safety, Child Welfare, Garda Clearance, Registration, Coaching Standards, Organised Games for all groups, and much more. We are extremely lucky to have had such forward thinking people involved in the club since its foundation, who have taken the club from strength to strength. We must now hand on the club to the next generation in an even better place. Much of the heavy lifting has already been done, which has resulted in excellent facilities largely debt free and with a good club structure at adult and minor level. The planned new development will put us at the very highest level in terms of club facilities. The GAA has undertaken a massive transformation in the past fifteen years, and it is the greater inclusion of ladies in its activities which has been the revolutionising factor. Ladies and volunteers now form a central role in the club, both in the playing of its games, and partaking in the organising of its activities. This has resulted in full family involvement in the association which has many positive effects. The club must enhance and develop our already good relations with our sister club Durrow, in a manner which benefits both clubs. Finally, I would like to thank all people who played a part in the delivery of this plan. Ní neart go cur le chéile Pat Cleary Chairperson Strategic Plan Committee

8 Ballinamere Club Listings Club Officers: 1. Chairperson 2. Vice Chairperson 3. Secretary 4. Treasurer 5. Assistant Treasurer 6. Public Relations Officer 7. Coaching & Games Officer / Minor Club Representative 8. Club/School Link Co-ordinator 9. Club Registrar 10. Children s Officer (appointed not elected) 11. Designated Person (Child Protection) (appointed not elected) 12. Irish Language & Culture Officer 13. ASAP and Health & Wellbeing Officer 14. Club Development Officer 15. Pitch & Facilities Officer 16. Health and Safety (including responsibility for public and property insurance) Note: a) It is important that each officer understands their role in the Club & carries out their duties as required. (see Appendix A for information on Club Officer Roles). Each Officer must prepare & present a report for AGM every year. b) The Club Executive is formed with the above 16 roles plus 5 additional members. (at least, max of 8) c) The Chairperson & Secretary will attend County Board Meetings. A club delegate also to be elected. d) The executive to form sub-committees.

9 Club History Early Years The origins of Ballinamere GAA Club date to the late 1880 s. A priest ministering in Tullamore Parish was eager to promote the aims of the newly formed Gaelic Athletic Association. Following the death of a young man participating in a faction fight which was a common sport at the Fair Green in Ballycowan, he grasped the opportunity to actively promote hurling as an alternative. In the early years of the GAA, promoting Gaelic Games and Irish culture was a strategy used to stimulate Irish identity in a period of civic discontent. The clubs formation was influenced by the O Brien, Craven and Horan families. with Pat O Brien being the first chairman. Hurling was the favoured sport and the club participated in Offaly championships in the early years, however progress was stalled following defeat by Drumcullen in SH final in The Parish Rule, War of Independence, Civil War and its ensuing issues made it very difficult for the GAA clubs to function effectively. Ballinamere was no different resulting in a lapse of activity until revival in Fielding a team in the newly introduced Juvenile grade was a basis for success in later years. The 40 s and 50 s brought unprecedented success with five championship wins Junior 44, 50, 59 and Intermediate 45, 53. After a barren period, success was again attained with Junior Hurling 80, Junior Football 83, 98 and Junior Hurling These set the scene for further achievement. Club Progress In the early decades Ballinamere like many had no fixed abode. As was the norm then, clubs were dependent on the goodwill of local landowners for the use of a field for hurling or football. The development of the present pitch with dressing rooms in 1980 secured the future of the Club. Ballinamere / Durrow Minor Club formed in 1982 to coach young players. It was a natural progression in 2006, when both clubs linked as adult level, Ballinamere becoming a Hurling Club and Durrow a Football Club. Modern Era Championship success followed with Junior B Hurling 06, 14, Junior A 2010, U This progression paved the way for success in 2013, winning Offaly Intermediate and a historic Leinster Junior Hurling Championship. The club s most successful year concluded with Ballinamere being named Offaly GAA Club of the Year. These achievements together with quality coaching at underage have reinvigorated the club. Underage hurling and football teams are now consistently competing for A championships. Ultimate success came in 2016 with a Minor Hurling Championship win a first A championship for B/D. Additionally the club was awarded Offaly GAA Bord na Nog club of the Year This emerged through persistent efforts from players and coaches. In 2016 the club embarked on its ambitious development plan to provide a second pitch with all ancillary infrastructures. The integration of GAA and Community Centre in Ballinamere has enriched the GAA Club. Embracing community will ensure the successful delivery of the joint ambitious plans for Jack Wyer Pitch, Walkway and Playground. A bright future beckons for Ballinamere GAA Club. History is merely a reminiscence of past deeds and failures. Achievement is reliant on vision, ambition, and action.

10 History of Club Crest The Ballinamere Crest uniquely depicts the location, history and traditions of the Ballinamere community. Ballinamere is located in the Barony of Ballycowan within sight of its castle. It was built in 1626 by Sir Jasper Herbert and his wife Lady Jane Finglas who controlled the lands of the Barony. The castle is the main feature of the crest. The violin represents Irish culture, music and Dan Cleary s Ballinamere Ceili Band, famous throughout Ireland and England in the 1950 s and 60 s. The handshake portrays the lengthy tradition of welcome and friendship afforded to all who reside and engage with the community. The hurley s epitomise the association with hurling in Ballinamere. Tradition revels the game was introduced in the latter half of 1800 s by a local priest anxious to calm energetic young men. This was in response to the death of a man participating in faction fights at the Fair Green in Ballycowan. The Club colours of Green and Gold are prominent in the crest which was designed by Aisling Molloy and adopted by the club in 2004.

11 Methodology The purpose behind our planning process for this document was clear: we needed a plan that would: Be consistent with the amateur ethos of the GAA. Make use of the skills, experience and qualifications of our members and anyone else who could assist us. Seek to ensure that all sections of our club were involved and represented. Provide a vision and clear plan of where we would like to be in five years time. Key Dates: Decision taken by Executive to Committee to prepare a new Strategic Plan - January 2016 Strategic Plan Committee hold first meeting and Focus Groups formed - February 2016 Public Forum Meeting - May 2016 Focus Group meetings as required Summer 2016 Strategic Plan Committee meet to review Focus Groups recommendations October/November 2016 The Public Forum Meeting took place on Thursday 20th May 2016 and was chaired by Bill Kavanagh representing Leinster, Offaly & Kilclonfert GAA.

12 Mission, Vision, Values Ballinamere GAA Club fully supports the Mission, Vision and Values of the Association. The GAA s values are the heart and soul of our Association. In every Club around the world they are what binds us, what makes us unique and what attracts more and more players, members, volunteers and supporters. Mission The GAA is a community based volunteer organisation promoting Gaelic games, culture and lifelong participation. The GAA is a volunteer organisation. We develop and promote Gaelic games at the core of Irish identity and culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that our family of games, and the values we live, enrich the lives of our members, families and the communities we serve. We are committed to active lifelong participation for all and to providing the best facilities. We reach out to and include all members of our society. We promote individual development and well being and strive to enable all our members achieve their full potential in their chosen roles. Vision Our vision is that everybody in the community has the opportunity to be welcomed to take part in our games and culture, to participate fully, to grow and develop and to be inspired to keep a lifelong engagement with our Association. Values Community Identity Community is at the heart of our Association. Everything we do helps to enrich the communities we serve. We foster a clear sense of identity and place. Our centre and pitch are the hub of the community. Amateur Status We are a volunteer led organisation. All our members play and engage in our games as amateurs. We provide a games programme at all levels to meet the needs of all our players. Inclusiveness We welcome everybody to be part of our Association, regardless of race, creed or gender. We are non sectarian & non political. Respect We respect & trust each other on and off the playing fields. We operate with integrity at all levels. We listen and respect the views of all. Player Welfare We provide the best playing experience for all our players. We structure our games to allow players of all abilities reach their potential. Teamwork Effective teamwork on and off the field is the cornerstone of our Association. Ní neart go cur le chéile (There is no strength without working together).

13 Coaching and Games Development In 2022 we will be able to say: Our underage Club s teams perform to their full potential because we have the best possible coaching and games development structures in place to support our adult section. Our underage section is one of the best. We have achieved excellence in coaching standards thereby helping players achieve their full potential. We are providing games for our young players in a safe and enjoyable environment. Our Club s adult teams perform to their full potential because we have the best possible coaching and games development structures in place supporting our adult section. Key Projects: Club Coaching Officer The position of the Club Coaching Officer was created in The officer will coordinate the activities of the club coaches and managers to provide a safe, smooth and rewarding progression for all its players from U6, U8, U10, U12, U14, U16, Minor, U21, and underage players playing at adult level through the Pathway to Elite Performance (PEP). They will also be responsible for progression of adult hurling through appropriate coaching. It is the responsibility of the Coaching Officer and underage committee to nurture young coaches and to provide a consistent programme of games, supported and complimented by quality coaching sessions. Club School Link The Club-School Liaison Officer will have close links with the local national and secondary school s to monitor the participation and progress of all the club s players within the schools system. The officer will help co-ordinate a balanced programme of training, rest and games between school and club activities. The club intends to build on and strengthen the existing club -school links with the expansion of our school liaison programme. The club will liaise with the Ballinamere and Durrow National schools and provide whatever support is required in terms of coaching, equipment etc. We will also maintain contact with post primary schools in the area -Killina Presentation School, Coláiste Choilm, Sacred Heart & Tullamore College. Laochra óga Programme (4 to 6 year olds) The club intends to enhance our existing academy programme that commenced in It is proving very popular in creating a safe and secure environment for an age-appropriate introduction to sport and Gaelic football, hurling and camogie. The academy will not be just concentrating on GAA skills but also fundamental skills known as the ABC' s (Agility, Balance, Coordination). Children will follow a programme to develop their individual motor skills (jumping, throwing, catching). The club will be seeking more coaches to get involved particularly parents and minor players. Coach Education The club will put in place a programme that ensures every player is coached by a person qualified to the appropriate level. We already have an excellent record in coach education, with 4 foundation, 48 Award 1, and 3 Award 2 level coaches. This coupled with ongoing in-service training and monitoring will ensure we continue to reach for the highest standards possible. Code of Best Practice and Code of Behaviour The club will continue to support and promote the GAA s Our Games - Our Code, the joint Code of Best Practice in Youth Sport and will also update and publish our own Code of Conduct, for players, coaches & parents. Coaches cannot coach without Garda vetting or code of best practice.

14 Coaching and Games Development Action Outcome Sought Timescale Milestone Responsibility Club Coaching Officer appointed with appropriate support in place. Ensure best possible coaching structures are in place operating at the highest standard Annual Durrow & Management Ballinamere Committee of coaching officer both senior appointed clubs Club-School Link - appointment of School Liaison Officers (SLO) Improve and enhance the relationship between schools and the club to ensure Gaelic football & hurling are being coached. Annual Durrow & Ballinamere SLO appointed Management Committee of Underage Executive Enhance existing Development Academy Programme for 4 to 6 year Olds Increase participation and provide platform for our young players to experience Gaelic football, hurling & camogie in a safe environment. Annual Co-ordinator Appointed Underage Executive & Coordinator Go-Games model in place for all U8/ U10/U12 players Ensure all our players get appropriate games in fun environment that promotes skill development. All season All teams entered Hurling & Football & Ladies Underage Executive & coaches All coaches to receive GAA Coach Education and have access to highest standard of resources. Ensure that a development plan is in place for our coaches to be the best they can be. All season Ongoing coach education Underage Executive GAA Code of Best Practice and Code of Behaviour in place. Promote respect throughout the club and ensure all children participate in a safe environment. Preseason Complete Club Children s Officer Adequate programme of games in place for all teams including challenge games and tournaments outside of county. Set target number of games and training sessions for each age group per season. Start of season Coaches involved in decision process Underage Committee & Club Coaching Officer Appropriate training and equipment to be in place with regard to First-Aid and Defibrillator Ensure all coaches are suitably trained to safeguard the welfare of our players and supporters. Pre-season Assigned qualified medic with each team Underage Executive Existing off-season training programme to be developed and enhanced. Introduce all players under 18 to the importance of mobility and conditioning exercises. SAQ Training indoor. Fitness Testing. Pre-season Coach participation Underage Committee Increase participation across all grades Monitor playing numbers and maximise player retention. All season Annual review Underage Executive Review of coaching standards Assess performance and improve standards throughout each year Ongoing Coaching Officer and all coaches to report Club Coaching Officer Past / current senior player involvement with underage teams Aim to have at least 1 past or current senior player as a mentor to each underage team senior player per panel Senior & Underage Committee s

15 Club Structures and Administration In 2022 we will be able to say: The administration of Ballinamere GAA Club is structured to maximise effectiveness and efficiency so that it is fully compliant with the Official Guide and the Club Constitution. The workload of the club is shared evenly and officers are being developed at all levels in the club. Key Projects: Annual Review of Strategic Plan It is proposed that the Club Strategic Chairperson will submit an annual review of this plan to the club s AGM. Health and Wellbeing Officer and ASAP Officer In order to provide the highest standards of Health and Wellbeing at the club and promote positive healthy lifestyles, the club will prioritise the above roles to facilitate the delivery of the GAA s various initiatives including Medical and Player Welfare, Mental Health, Alcohol and Substance Abuse (ASAP), Mouthguards, First Aid etc. Enhance existing relationships with Ladies Football and Scór We already have excellent relationships with both of the active and successful Ladies Football Club. We proposed to build on this so we can continue to prosper as partners into the future. Health and Safety Officer (including responsibility for public and property insurance) This officer will devise a Health and Safety Statement and update as necessary on an annual basis, and advise the Club on public liability insurance. Appoint Pitch & Facilities Officer This officer will be pro-active in maintaining and enhancing the club facilities. Nurture family ethos in club activities The club will look to create opportunities for parents to get involved with the many aspects of the club. Currently we have two club BBQ s and coaches and parents evenings. We hope to involve all parents with our walking track& playground in association with Ballinamere GAA Community Development committee.

16 Club Structures and Administration Action Outcome Sought Timescale Milestone Responsibility Club Executive continue as governing body of club with clear goals and objectives in compliance with Official GAA Guide. Efficient and appropriate leadership and decision making Ongoing Regular meetings Club Executive Continuous development and training of current and future club officers. High standard of competent club officers sufficiently briefed for their role. Attendance at County Board in-service training. Annually In-service for all committee members Club Executive Health and Wellbeing Officer & ASAP Officer role prioritised per new GAA guidelines. Suitably experienced person to lead the updated GAA policy. Annually Positions to be filled Club Executive Enhance existing relationships with Ladies Football. Continue to communicate and promote shared interests Ongoing Regular contact Secretaries of Ladies, Senior & Underage Develop and maintain a Safety Statement and advise the Club regarding public liability insurance. Annual review 2017 New Safety Statement Pitch & Facilities Officer & Health and Safety Officer Club History Project Club History Book 2016 Project completed Club Member Improve Ensure all aspects of club are represented at Committee level. Review extent of representation on Club Committee 2017 gender balance, players rep etc. All Committee s Nurture family ethos in club activities to encourage parents and other family members to participate and enjoy the facilities. More family involvement and attendance at club activities like BBQ s and social evenings 2017 New reasons for people to visit club Senior & Underage Committee

17 Finance and Fundraising In 2022 we will be able to say: Ballinamere GAA is a model of financial excellence and operates in surplus each year. We have the financial stability to plan future developments from our own resources and invest in developing our games. Key Projects: Support structures for Financial Committee The club are well aware of the substantial workload that currently exists for our finance committee. We will endeavour to spread the workload across the various fundraising activities for the day to day running of the club. The Development committee have taken responsibility for fundraising for the new development. Programme of Fundraising Activities All of our committees need to communicate and liaise with Durrow, Ladies, Underage Club & Development committee at the start of each year when planning fundraising events to ensure an adequate time spread between initiatives. We are all relying on the generosity of the one community whose support has been unwavering despite the economical situation. It is only fair that we do not over do our reliability on this good will. Increase lotto sales Our weekly lotto is a welcome revenue stream for the club. Thank you to the supporters and the work of the lotto committee. We will look at getting more support from senior players and parents of underage players as well as upgrading to an online lotto facility. Management of Running Costs All of our teams and committees have a collective responsibility towards managing the running costs of the club and associated buildings. This can range from ensuring that all membership fees are kept up to date, to supporting energy management initiatives through to reducing team/field expenses.

18 Finance and Fundraising Action Outcome Sought Timescale Milestone Responsibility Executive Committee to put in place appropriate support structures for finance committee. Provide assistance to Finance Committee to manage the expanding club finances 2017 Spread of workload Executive & Finance Committee Programme of fundraising events to be agreed at start of each year to ensure all activities are properly planned and timed. All club committees to communicate with each other regarding dates and type of fundraising initiatives 2017 Programme of events agreed at start of season All Committees Club to continue the promotion of existing and new sponsors and ensure maximum exposure. New sponsors with new methods to increase brand exposure 2017 New Corporate Sponsors Executive & Development Committee Lotto committee to investigate methods to increase ticket sales. Increased revenue 2017 New online lotto facility Senior Committee Club to continue financial management in order to reduce costs and all outstanding borrowings. Reduction of existing loan and continue to balance books Ongoing Maintain existing financial stability Executive & Finance Committee Membership - data base to be enhanced and club to actively promote larger uptake. Ensure maximum membership is realised Ongoing Increase membership Underage Executive & Club Registrar Energy Audit to be reviewed annually Reduction of energy costs Annual Minimise energy consumption Pitch / Facilities Manager

19 Facilities and Development In 2022, we will be able to say: Ballinamere GAA has state of the art facilities for the playing and promotion of its games and aims. We have 2 pitches, 4 dressing rooms, all weather training area, ballwall & walking track to allow the club grow into the future. Key Projects: Continue to develop and maintain facilities to the highest standard In conjunction with the Development committee & Pitch & Facilities Officer, the club will set out a Development Programme at the start of each year based on the various items contained within this document to ensure a co-ordinated and phased approach over the season. Upgrade training pitches Work to commence in 2017 on the redevelopment of the main training pitch and the new Jack Wyer Pitch. The end result will be a full size and level pitch with enhanced drainage which will be available for use in Consideration will be given to the development of the existing pitch within the lifetime of this plan. The Development committee will be responsible for the above. Replace score board Options to be explored regarding new digital score board. Provide walking track Walking track to be provided with floodlighting and an appropriate membership scheme put in place to allow maximum availability to the community. Investigate feasibility of astro training area and ball wall This was a recurring suggestion from members. Continue to manage main pitch and use only for matches to ensure existing high standard is maintained In conjunction with all the other proposals, the club are keen to enhance the existing policy of protecting the main pitch from over use and to ensure it is kept to the highest standard possible. This will require buy-in from all members and particularly coaches and team managers. This will helped great with the completion of the back training pitch. Our new pitch will be used as a match pitch and our old pitch will be used for training. Existing floodlights will be used for training.

20 Facilities and Development Action Outcome Sought Timescale Milestone Responsibility Continue to maintain all facilities to highest standard Top class facilities available to all our members Ongoing Annual Development Plan Development Committee & Pitch Officer New pitch Full size playing pitch 2018 Availability to all teams Development Committee Replace Score Board New digital display 2018 In place for all home games Development Committee Provide walking track Provision of walking track around perimeter of grounds 2018 Initial walkway by 2017 Development Committee Investigate feasibility of astro training area & ball wall Development plan option 2018 Availability to all teams Development Committee Continue to manage main pitch for winter training and use only for matches to ensure existing high standard is maintained Buy-in from all members, team coaches & managers 2017 Quantity of playing hours per week as per best practice guidelines Pitch & Facilities Officer & Underage Secretary Consider the provision of suitable storage/ equipment store facilities for machinery Adequate storage for protection and security of machinery 2017 All machinery to have safe storage place Development Committee & Pitch Officer

21 Communications / PR and Social / Cultural In 2022 we will be able to say: Ballinamere GAA has the most modern and effective methods such as text systems etc. in place to communicate with its membership and wider community and has a responsible brand. In addition, the club is a social outlet for people of all ages and gives people an opportunity to promote their sense of Irishness Key Projects: Develop a Club Website The club will prioritise the provision of a club website to include underage. This would help with online registration, documentation etc. Develop a regular newsletter Membership database to be updated to ensure addresses are obtained from all members for club communication. It is proposed the newsletter will include information on club activities & the new development. Continue to utilise social & print media to communicate with members Club will enhance existing online presence via social media and utilise local newspapers with club news. Investigate potential of holding an annual club family day The club will consider having an annual event on Lá na nclub as a celebration of the family involvement which is the backbone of our clubs. We will continue to hold parent and underage BBQ s. Encourage all team coaches to use cúpla focail and improve promotion of Gaeilge throughout the club s activities. The club supports the GAA ethos that our native language should work in tandem with our Gaelic games and will therefore encourage all officers and coaches to use cúpla focail where possible. Team mentors to provide photographs and match reports We should not underestimate the power of photographs as a club promotion tool in local & social media. All coaches should ensure that a squad photo is taken for all teams every season. Encourage the provision of club gear across all grades. Promotion of the underage club crest and colours through sportswear will be encouraged across all age groups. Guy Clothing now stock all Ballinamere/Durrow gear.

22 Communications / PR and Social / Cultural Action Outcome Sought Timescale Milestone Responsibility Design a Club website. Club profile to be raised further via website to provide information hub for supporters Increased Club awareness PRO Investigate potential of holding an annual club family day. Lá na gclub and club BBQ s One day celebration for everyone involved in the club 2017 Consensus on date Senior, Ladies & Underage Committee s Encourage all team coaches to use cúpla focail and improve promotion of gaeilge throughout the club s activities. Officials and team mentors to lead by example in use of Irish language including texts etc 2017 Appreciation of our language & culture Irish Language & Culture Officer Team mentors to provide more photographs Increase club profile through local & print media 2017 Parental consent required PRO & Team Coaches & Underage Secretary Maintain and enhance existing text message service including review of recipients. Encourage all members and supporters to sign up 2017 Increase in recipients Underage and senior secretary Provision of club gear for all ages Ballinamere/Durrow gear available in Guy Clothing 2017 Promotion of Underage crest & colours Underage, Ladies & Senior Committees.

23 Ballinamere GAA Club Ballinamere County Offaly

24 Appendix A Club Officer Roles Role of Chairperson The Chairperson is the principal officer of a GAA Club. As well as chairing Club Executive Committee and other Club meetings, the Chairperson has prime responsibility for ensuring that the Club is a well organised, well managed and an active unit. The Chairperson should be dedicated to the job, have good communication skills, have the ability to delegate key tasks and above all, be a person of integrity in the community. The contribution of the Club Chairperson to the effective working of a Club can never be underestimated. Role of Vice Chairperson Each Club is required to have a vice-chairperson on the Club Executive, in accordance with rule 7.2 of the Club constitution. The role of this officer is to assist the main officer in carrying out their role in the Club. The vice-chairperson will preside as chairperson of Club meetings in the event of the chairperson being unable to attend. Role of Secretary The Secretary is the chief administrator in the Club. The duties are many and varied and call for a high degree of dedication. The Secretary has more to do with the practical running of the Club than any other officer. He/she should be a good organiser, be methodical and above all, be reliable. The duties dovetail with those of the Chairperson and it is essential that both officers work as a team of which the Secretary will very often be the more active person. Role of Treasurer The Club Treasurer has responsibility for the safe-keeping of the funds of the Club. He/she is responsible for recording all income and expenditure and for reporting on the financial position of the Club to the Club Executive Committee on an on-going basis. It is important to note that the Treasurer does not have to be an accountant to perform this role. However, he/she must have the ability to record all financial transactions, control expenditure in the Club, plan and assist in fundraising and provide regular reports to the Club Executive. Role of PRO Communications is one of the most important activities in the Association. The success of all units depends to some degree on the national and local image of the Association. Everyone in the GAA who has a role in their Club, no matter how small, has a part to play in effective communication. There is always a need for a proper flow of information in the Club so that everyone understands how the Club operates. The main function of the Club PRO is to communicate with the general public on behalf of the Club, presenting a positive image of the Club and Cumann Lúthchleas Gael in the local community and beyond. Role of Vice Treasurer The role of the Vice Treasurer is to assist the main officer in carrying out their role in the Club.

25 Role of Coaching & Games Officer The main role of the Coaching and Games Officer is to promote best practice in coaching and games development in the Club, helping to ensure that there is a regular programme of games for all players. This is one of the most important officer roles in the Club and each Club should appoint a suitable person to the position. The coaching and games officer should work closely with the Club Chairperson and the Club Executive to help put in place the best possible coaching and games development structures for the Club. The coaching and games officer should ensure that Go-Games are adopted as best practice in the Club, that a Cul Camp is organised each summer and that a regular programme of games is provided for child and youth players by participating in internal blitzes and blitzes with other clubs etc. He/she should ensure that all Club coaches have received the appropriate GAA Coach Education training and that Club coaches use all available resources, including the GAA Fun-Do coach education pack. For more information on all aspects of coaching and games activity, consult the games development section of this manual and the Games Development section of the GAA website, Role of Club/ School Link Co-ordinator Increasingly, the role of Club/School Co-ordinator and the Club/school link is becoming one of the key roles in helping to develop Gaelic Games in the Club. All clubs should ensure that there is a Club/school link in operation in order to promote the games in the local schools. The main responsibilities of the Club/school co-ordinator are to liaise with the local school teachers to promote Go-Games and the Ú-Can Awards in the school and to work closely with the Club Coaching and Games Officer in all aspects of coaching and games development in the Club. For more information on the Club/school link, consult the games development section of this manual and the Games Development section of the GAA website, Role of Club Registrar Each Club is required in have a Registrar on the Club Executive, in accordance with rule 7.2 of the Club constitution. The Club Registrar is responsible for ensuring that the Club is up to date in the registration of players and members. Each year, a Club must complete two registrations i.e. the registration of Full and Youth members and the registration of players in accordance with rule 2.2 and 2.3 of the Official Guide. Registration is now facilitated on the on-line GAA Player and Member registration system, which is the only acceptable method of registering players and members with the GAA. Each Club Registrar is provided with a password to this system and therefore the Club Registrar needs access to broadband internet and have reasonable PC skills. For more on this consult the section on membership and registration. GAA CLUB MANUAL - MAKING THE MOST OF OUR ORGANISATION 53: Club Registrar In accordance with rule 7.2 of the Club constitution, the Club Registrar is responsible for ensuring that the Club is up to date in the registration of players and members.

26 Role of Club Children s Officer The Club Children s Officer is a senior position of responsibility within each Club and careful consideration should be given when selecting a person to fulfil this role. Children's Officers are selected by the outgoing Executive and automatically takes up their role on the incoming Executive committees, and are not elected as occurs in other Officer roles. This position is compulsory in the Club. Formerly known as the Youth Officer, the title of this post reflects the legal status of a child which in Ireland is defined as any person under the age of 18 years of age. The Children s Officer shall have as his/her primary aim the establishment of a child and youth centred ethos within the Club and will be viewed by many as the link between the children/young people or their parents and the Club. The person chosen for this role shall have the confidence of parents, mentors and children alike as somebody that can represent the views of others and ensure that the Club acknowledges and delivers upon their responsibilities at all times. The Club Children s Officer shall be a person of high integrity, shall have good communicative skills and shall have knowledge as to how the Club can ensure the rights of young people are respected and maintained. It is the responsibility of the Children s Officer to regularly report to their Club Executive or Management Committee on how Club policy and procedures and the participation of young people in the Club may be impacting on the welfare and safeguarding of under age players and their coaches/mentors. The Club Children s Officer should; 1: Ensure, in as far as possible, that all Players, Coaches/Team mentors, Parents/Guardians, Officials and spectators adhere to the GAA Code of Best Practice for Youth Sport and Code of Behaviour 2: Assist with organising the delivery of the Child protection Awareness Programme within the Club and other appropriate training in consultation with the Club s Designated Person (see below). 3: Distribute copies of the GAA Joint Code of Behaviour at Club level and ensure that all mentors in particular sign and abide by the Code. 4: Assist the Club in establishing the Club Code of Best Practice Committee, which will adjudicate on breaches of the code within the Club. Club Children s Officers do not have the responsibility to investigate or validate child protection allegations or concerns within the Club. The liaison person appointed by the Club to deal with such concerns is the Club s Designated Person as per the GAA Guidelines for Dealing with Allegations of Abuse (Fourth Edition). For further and more detailed information on this role within the Club, consult the Child Welfare section of the GAA website, Role of Designated Person All Clubs must appoint a Designated Person who on behalf of the Club shall be responsible for dealing with any concerns relating to the possible abuse of children.this is a compulsory position in the Club. Each County is also required to appoint a County Designated Person. If deemed appropriate, Provincial Councils may also appoint a Designated Person, who shall assist and advise Club and County Designated Persons on their roles. Designated Persons must have the ability to approach child welfare and protection matters in a sensible, balanced, facilitative and non threatening manner and should be aware of the responsibilities that they are required to fulfil on behalf of their Club/County and the GAA. The person chosen must be fully aware as to how allegations of abuse referred by them are subsequently dealt with by statutory agencies and authorities within their jurisdiction and how reports to the GAA National Designated Person are processed. It is the County Designated Person who shall in most instances report allegations of abuse to statutory authorities on behalf of Clubs in their County, having discussed such decisions with the relevant Club Designated Person. The reporting of allegations of abuse may also be made by the National Designated Person on behalf of the GAA. It is important to