The Taranaki Rugby Football Union made a $80,973 loss in 2021 against a background of COVID and uncertainty.  The result was announced at the 136^th Annual General Meeting of the TRFU held at the Inglewood Rugby Club tonight.

TRFU Chair Andrew Thompson said while the result is a loss, impacts were felt through COVID and investment in the Chiefs who are also facing financial challenges. 

“The TRFU has maintained a strong cash position over 2021 through exceptional and often prudent spending across all parts of the business. We also acknowledge the support from our commercial partners and community funders during the 2021 year. Their generous support of Taranaki Rugby is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with you all.”

“The impacts of COVID, and closure of Yarrow Stadium continued to impact our financial performance. Taranaki Rugby continues to feel the ongoing loss of key infrastructure with Yarrow Stadium closed. The inability to maximise spectator attendance during the season, which provided both a home semi-final and final at the TET Stadium & Events Centre in Inglewood are rare opportunities that you strive to capture.”

Thompson was thankful for those organisations and individuals who threw their support behind the organisation in such a fluid environment.

“Thank you to all our commercial partners, especially Principal Partner Yarrows The Bakers for their continued involvement in supporting rugby in Taranaki. I would also like to thank the New Zealand Community Trust, Toi Foundation, Taranaki Community Rugby Trust, Lion Foundation, Pelorus Trust and the Aotearoa Gaming Trust who help us to deliver our community rugby programmes to participants around Taranaki Maunga.”

Lyal French-Wright finished his two-year term as TRFU President with Vice President Cherry Blyde becoming the new and first female TRFU President an historical occasion for the union. Kevin Barrett has been elected the new TRFU Vice President.  

Kevin Murphy retired from the board as an Appointed Director after joining in 2018. Sarah Mako, was successful as the newly Appointed Director.

Click HERE to view a full copy of the Taranaki Rugby Football Union 2021 Annual Report.

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Article added: Wednesday 25 May 2022