Why retiring chairman leaves lasting legacy
ROGER Jones may have held almost every role on and off the field that was possible in 55 years with Clifton CC but his chairmanship over the last 20 years led to his biggest impact.
Jones borrowed a bike to get to his first game at the club 55 years ago and steps down as chairman with the club in a strong position.
In paying tribute to his spell in the chair, the club’s Nick Webster writes: “As he became chairman, Roger introduced budgets and forecasts and turned the committee into a far more professional management system with his business acumen and clear thinking giving the committee focus and clarity.
“He has always reflected the ECB and DCB strategies and was one of the first to recognsie the necessity of Clubmark and having a development plan.
“He has worked hard to continually update the development plan and this document has governed the way the club have improved over the past 15 years.
“Each area of the club has clearly defined goals and intentions which Roger has managed and monitored to see huge improvements during his tenure.
“It is well known within Derbyshire cricket circles that the development plan established by Roger is used as a template by many other clubs.
“While doing all of this, Roger continues to enjoy his passion for coaching.
“Over the years as a level two coach, he has coached all age groups and is very keen to develop women’s cricket at Clifton.
“He currently coaches the women’s senior team, which is seeing numbers grow on an almost weekly basis. It is due to Roger’s undying commitment to developing the team and quality coaching.
“In 2009 Roger won the East Midlands Sports Unsung Hero award – part of the BBC
Sports Personality of the Year awards – when his services to the club, game and wider community were recognised.
“He works closely with the local village to deliver Clif-fest every year and the community summer fair held at the Chapel Lane ground which raises money for three local charities.
“Roger has an ability to bridge the age gap and is massively respected by everyone at Clifton.
“His efforts have earned him his new role as honorary president and he will continue to offer his support from his experiences.
“He has improved every facet of the club.
“The hours he has given are immeasureable and his passion is undimmed and unrelenting.
“The growth in participation in recent times has been managed smoothly and impressively and the club is very different to the one Roger first borrowed a bike to get to some 55 years ago.”