The future of the Coonamble Junior Rugby League Club is in doubt and the 2023 season at risk of not getting off the ground after the annual general meeting set for Sunday 13 November failed to draw enough attendees to form a committee.
With a membership of almost 200 footballers and netballers, just five volunteers attended the AGM.
The existing executive committee of Thelma and Nathan Walker, Adam and Rowena Macrae, Nathan Finn, Minn Roach, Deanna Dixon and Samantha Turnbull have all served a number of years in the leadership roles but need assistance to maintain the full range of tasks needed to run the competition.
While the majority of the existing committee will continue to be involved, they are keen to see other parents step up to learn the ropes.
The committee say the club will not form and will not field teams in 2023 if a committee is not formed this Sunday.
President Deanna Dixon was understandably disappointed with the turnout.
“We just can’t run a club of this size without more parents putting their hand up,” Ms Dixon said.
“We have a great player base, and amazing sponsors who support the kids to play the sports they love.”
“We have a core group of committed parents, but they are spread so thin,” she said.
“There are so many ways to help! From basic ground setup, to coaching, helping in the canteen, or becoming a league-safe accredited first aid officer for games.”
With good community backing the club is in a secure financial position but a shortage of willing helpers could see junior league and netball stall.
“The club, thanks to its sponsors, can contribute to qualifications such as league safe, coaching and refereeing,” Ms Dixon said.
“However, the reality is that without more volunteers, there will be no football or netball in 2023.”
A second attempt at the AGM will go ahead this Sunday 20 November, 11am at the Coonamble Bowling Club.