High-stakes vote at EP Rugby meeting
TRugby he stakes Union will’ s be annual high when meeting rival on factions Saturday. face off in a presidential election battle at the EP Whoever emerges triumphant will face enormous challenges over the next four years as they attempt to transform EP into a powerhouse. Feelings are likely to run high and a blood-on-the-floor style meeting is on the cards as warring groups wrestle for control.
Apart from the presidency, there will be also be a tussle for the positions of deputy president, vice-president, finance, provincial affairs, club affairs and game development.
Clubs must decide whether they want another four years of incumbent president Andre Rademan, who has admirers and detractors.
If the clubs opt for change, then Vernon Stuurman is expected to assume power of a union which has endured much trouble in recent years.
A vote for Rademan would signal that clubs want stability, but if they pin their hopes on Stuurman they will want the union to move in a new direction.
Rugby fans will be watching the result of the election closely and will be hoping delegates elect the best man for the job.
Though EP Rugby have managed to stabilise their finances in recent years, the union has much work to do if they want to match the monetary muscle and success of rival unions.
Rademan has been credited with turning the EP’s financial fortunes around thanks to prudent governance, and it remains to be seen whether this allows him to remain in power
It is hoped the new executive will build a solid franchise for the province and strengthen relations with the Border Rugby Union and universities, and also set up an academy.
Acquiring equity and sponsorship funding will be key to the success of EP Rugby so that a high-performance environment can be put in place.
Club rugby must also be high up on the agenda of the new executive because it has proved that it can be a solid conveyor belt of talent.
Once the annual meeting has been held, EP coach Peter de Villiers is expected to meet with the new executive to map a path forward.
It’s almost time for delegates to cast their votes!