West Midlands Basketball League

Mike Neal opened the meeting, welcoming everyone to the 43rd Annual General Meeting of the West Midlands Basketball League, and went on to thank the Committee for their hand work in making 2007/2008 such a successful season.

2. Minutes of the previous AGM

Copies of the minutes of the 42nd Annual General Meeting were circulated by both e-mail prior to the AGM, and within the document package issued upon arrival at the meeting. The minutes were approved and signed by the Chairman. There were no matters arising.

3. Officers Reports

Written reports were circulated within the information pack.
Dave Slade questioned the League Treasurer regarding a high interest savings account being opened in order that funds could make some money over the year. This was discussed at the last League meeting and the Treasurer assured the meeting that the matter was in hand.

4. Allocation of Honoraria

The honoraria will remain at its present level for the forthcoming season.

5. New Clubs

Representatives from Stoke Heath, Lordswood, Blazers B and Walsall Wizards B, addressed the meeting, Arup Campus were not represented. All were unanimously welcomed into the League.

6. Approval of Divisions

John Taylor gave an overview of the proposed new League structure. Stoke and Smithswood had accepted the Committee’s invitation to join the Premiere League. Aston Sills were promoted into Division 1. Blazers and Stafford Hoops were promoted into Division 2, joined by new club Lordswood. Stoke Heath, Blazers B and Walsall Wizards B were entered into Division3.

7. Alteration of League Rules (proposes by the League Committee)

Rule 3ci – payment of officials. Match fees as follows, Level 5 & 4 £17, Level 3 £16, Level 2 £15. Note. Travel expenses to remain at 15p per mile. The reasoning for this increase was explained to the meeting, it will recompense referees for their time whilst allowing teams to budget for the forthcoming season.

8. Election of Officers

The Committee were re-elected with the addition of Makis Chatzmichalis (media manager), Roy Francis and Denise Kearney. Tony Johnson has taken over as appeals secretary in place of Martin Bromage-Griffiths who has retired after 25 years with the League. Chairman Mike Neal recommended that Martin by made a Life President in view of his work and this was heartily approved by the meeting. Michael Buckle was not re-elected to the Committee.

9. Presentation of Trophies

Premiere Division Champions – Wolves CC.

Premiere Runners up – Warley A

Division 1 Champions – Stoke.

Division 1 Runners up Smithswood

Division 2 Champions – Aston Sills.

Division 2 Runners up – ProGuard Pacers

Division 3 Champions – Stafford Hoops.

Division 3 Runners up Blazers.

Rosebowl – Aston Sills

Stanley Pears Trophy – Swinfen Hall

Bernard Patrick Trophy – Ian Price

Mac Fessall Trophy – Glen Chilton

10. Any Other Business

John Taylor, explained to clubs that as he had been able to get application forms from the secretary in time he had been able to formulate a draft handbook which was circulated for proof reading. Any amendments would be made and the handbook circulated, two copies per team. Further copies will be available to download via the web site.

11. Date of next AGM

Tuesday 9th June 2009