Dear Players, Parents and Carers,
I hope you have been enjoying the season, sadly it is now drawing to a close. We are delighted that we had a season at all, and while not perfect, was still a great opportunity for our kids to enjoy the sport.
The purpose of this email is to update you on some decisions that were made at the AGM, and to provide information on wind ups. A separate email will be sent to all coaches and managers about specifics, but we want you to be aware of the following.
Last game:
The last game for everyone will be 18th/19th September, unless you have a bye.
In this game, Hawks intend for it to be 1v2, 3v4 etc to ensure everyone has close games as their final game. No awards will be given out for the winners of each division.
The fixtures will be finalised by Monday, please double check your game time, opponent and venue before heading to your game.
Immediately after the game, we will ask that ALL players return their singlets, through their manager. PLEASE ensure you bring a change of clothes - perhaps think of others in the team, and pack 2 shirts.
Refunds
At the AGM, it was recommended that Raiders refund $50 to each player in U10, including miniball, through to U18. This was based on the $175 that you have paid Raiders. You also pay Hawks $150 and Basketball WA $30. Hawks usually charge us about $40 per player, they have reduced their costs, we have also incurred less costs than usual, hence the refund. Unfortunately this will not apply to those who have already received a partial refund, under 8's and players in the integrated basketball program.
The manager of your team will be given the money, you will need to liaise with them to receive your refund.
Payment will ONLY be after a player's singlet as been returned in good condition. If you do not give it to your manager, there is another option to drop if off on the Wednesday evening at our Youth Wind up, but this is NOT the preferred option.
Junior coach payments
We are very grateful for the time and effort all of our coaches, but especially our junior coaches put into the club. In recognition for this, as occurred last year, and discussed at the AGM, we will be thanking our junior coaches by paying them $70 for those coaching under 10's and above. We will also pay $40 for those coaching Under 8's. These payments will be made on the night of the Youth Wind up.
Junior wind up (U8, U10, U12). All participants in under 12 and below will receive a medallion for their contribution to the team. These will be given to the managers to hand out at the conclusion of your last game.
Unfortunately due to COVID restrictions in WA, we are unable to host our usual end of year wind up. We encourage teams to have their own wind ups. Please liaise with your manager regarding this.
Youth wind up. (U14-U18, and Raiders Inclusive)
This will still go ahead on Wednesday evening 23rd September, but will be a different affair to prior years. It will be held in the Newman school gym.
Teams will come in age groups and have their awards presented in front of their peers. Please see the times below:
6.00pm year 7 boys and girls teams
6.45pm year 8 boys and girls teams
7.20pm year 9 and 10, girls and boys teams. Thank You and recognition to Junior Coaches.
8.10pm Raiders Inclusion team, year 11 and year 12 teams
After your presentation session, you would be welcome to return to the club rooms for a soft drink and snack for the players. The bar will be open for adults.
Needed - Co-ordinator of Under 8, year 1 program
We have a very strong committee for 2021, however, unfortunately we do not have any parents with a child currently in pre-primary, going into year 1. Our under 8, year 1 program has been very successful in the last 2 years, and we are very keen to ensure this continues. We need one parent who has a year 1 who is keen to play basketball step up and take on the role. Peter Zafiropolous managed the program exceptionally well this year, in the footsteps of Damien Cooley. It would be a shame for it not to occur in 2021. Please email me, or Peter, if you would like to know more information. It is not an onerous task.
Sponsors
A massive thank you to our sponsors this year; Pincho's, Reuben Peters from Select Mortgage Services, ConocoPhillips, RIO and the City of Stirling particularly in such a difficult year.
I also wish to acknowledge with a big thank you to Paul Summers from Surgical Dynamics, who sourced and donated essential products to get us back on the court early on in COVID. Without these we would never have had as smooth an introduction back into the season. We would welcome people who are interested in sponsoring to get in touch with us early so we can plan any merchandise with you in mind. Please contact Matt Green if you wish to find out more.
Prize nominations
Every year, we give some prizes to coaches and managers who show initiative and seem to go over and above in supporting their team. These are judged on submissions from players and parents from within the team. I would be grateful if you feel that your coach or manager has done an exceptional job, if you could email me and advise why they should receive an award. We have the following awards that we welcome nominations for:
Junior Coach of the year (Under 10 or Under 12).
Junior Manager of the Year (Under 10 or Under 12).
Youth Coach of the year (Under 14-Under 18)
Youth Manager of the year (Under 14-Under 18)
Thank you to all Players, Parents, Carers and Committee members for your understanding and assistance throughout this difficult year. We hope you enjoy the last games of the season and look forward to welcoming you back next year.
Kind regards,
Richard Nolan
President NHR Raiders Basketball Club