RFL board’s positive feedback
IN his Christmas message to supporters, Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey expanded on feedback from the RFL’s board regarding the club’s recent application for promotion to the Championship.
Hornets were edged out by Newcastle Thunder and Mr Mazey said: “We have embraced the opportunity to take feedback and indeed only last week Steve Kerr and I met (virtually) with Air Commodore Dean Andrew OBE, Chairman of the panel that delivered the recommendation to the RFL board.
“Dean was very open and honest, taking time to talk through the process, providing us with valuable feedback some of which I was keen to share with you. This feedback has been summarised in a very complimentary thank you letter which is now on file at the club and concluded that our submission was comprehensive, visionary and honest.
“Dean also stated that the application process highlighted how the club is making significant progress under new ownership, this despite the pandemic and has quickly re-kindled old and generated new relationships with interlocutors, in particular local politicians, who can help unlock the potential of the Hornets large catchment area.
“It was commented that our bid was a credit to everyone that contributed, and It contained impact statements, letters of support and other evidence that showcased not only the effort the Club has put into the submission, but equally, the central role Hornets play in the town. It demonstrated the commitment of the current ownership is clear and brings with it a sustainable investment strategy, and a set of skills that place the club on an upward trajectory with momentum to overcome Covid pandemic fallout with the backing of everyone connected.
“Some of the highlights which received plaudits within the letter were as follows.
●●HORNETS Social Delivery Programme which has delivered to over 17,000 young people across 57 schools. The programme has an overall social return on investment of £350,000. ●●‘BACK-ON-SIDE’ programme with wider health initiatives, a focus on wheelchair rugby and development of the women’s game. These highlight the club’s outstanding community engagement efforts. ●●AN innovative engagement strategy of the board targeting fan engagement and increased attendances in 2021 and beyond. The strategy is underpinned by an outstanding social media programme that Dean revealed the panel considered has the potential to become one of the best-in-class in the sport. ●●A FOUNDATION development plan that facilitates our new and exciting ETP “English Talent Pathway’ evidenced through the Hornets commitment to community clubs and its outstanding partnership with Hopwood Hall College. This was considered best in class by the panel.
“The panel also considered the playing and coaching squad strong enough to avoid relegation from the Championship in the first season and, with a couple of additions, to cement a mid-table position.”