Turnaround in association’s financial fortunes ‘unbelievable’

THE Otago Softball Association has made ‘‘significant financial progress’’ over the past four months.

Since announcing it owed its creditors between $40,000 and $50,000 in August, it has paid off its outstanding debts and is now paying its bills on time.

It was a turnaround association treasurer Marg Daniels called ‘‘unbelievable’’, having initially expected it to take up to two years.

‘‘During the last six months we’ve made significant financial progress,’’ she said.

‘‘We’re now in a stable position and we’re making payments at due dates.’’

She confirmed the association was ahead of the budget it had drawn up six months ago, but could not provide details.

The improved situation had come as a result of being ahead on grants, as well as having an increase in senior teams from 14 to 19, although that had since dropped to 18.

The clubs had agreed to pay increased team fees, as well as a levy of $800 at the beginning of the season.

Association chairwoman Sandy Wallace said the levy would not be required next year.

Both Daniels and Wallace said alongside the support of the clubs, the support of the creditors, the DCC and individual donations had been of huge importance.

It was believed the DCC debt was in the process of being written off.

Daniels added that the Waterloo Classic Labour weekend tournament had not been in the budget, but had brought in plenty of funds.

The association was hoping to have success with hosting both the Masters Games and under17 girls national championships.

If both went well, the organisation would have financial stability over winter, as it still had bills to pay during that period with no money coming in.

Both Daniels and Wallace also made mention of the work the executive had done.

With no paid staff, a core group of 10, alongside several subcommittees, had been vol unteering to run the sport.

The result was announced at a special general meeting on Thursday night, which had been called after the association received a letter expressing concerns from several clubs.

Wallace said the meeting had gone well and the clubs left happy with the situation.

One club told the Otago Daily

it was happy, two chose not to comment, while one could not be reached.