JSG Cymru WRU Minutes February 2024
MEETING MINUTES
Date: 20th February 2024
Time: 18:30-19:45
Location: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
Attendees:
Abi Tierney (WRU)
Nigel Walker (WRU)
Malcolm Wall (WRU)
Barrie Jones (Crys 16)
Gareth Storey (Crys 16)
Sarah Collins-Davies (Ospreys Supporters Club)
Cathy Green (Ospreys Supporters Club)
Lynn Glaister (CF10)
Dann Hallett (Dragons Official Supporters Club)

1. Introductions and Previous Communications
Following introductions, Barrie Jones commenced the meeting by congratulating Abi Tierney in both
Welsh and English on her recent appointment as Chief Executive Officer of the WRU. Abi expressed her
gratitude and conveyed her eagerness to collaborate with everyone present. She emphasised the open
nature of the conversation but acknowledged the requirement to document the proceedings. Lynn
Glaister provided a brief overview of the agenda, including discussions on the independent review,
strategy, finance, Judgement Day, and women’s rugby.

2. Independent Review
Abi Tierney addressed the attendees regarding the independent review published in November. She
emphasised the importance of implementing the recommendations effectively and transparently.
Cathy Green raised a query about including a supporter representative on the review panel.
Abi explained the panel’s composition and assured regular updates to stakeholders. The conversation
also touched on past interactions between JSG Cymru and the WRU and the need for transparent and
constructive engagement going forward.

3. Strategy
Abi Tierney outlined the ongoing process of developing a new strategy for Welsh rugby, incorporating
inputs from various stakeholders. She discussed the need for broad engagement and feedback
mechanisms, requesting a SWOT analysis from supporter groups.
The supporter groups gave an overview of their membership structures and communication mechanisms
with their associated memberships and clubs.
Nigel Walker and Malcolm Wall emphasised the strategy’s comprehensive nature, encompassing both
professional and community rugby. The discussion extended to pathways for young players and the
balance between sustaining the game financially and nurturing talent.

4. Finances
JSG questioned how the Parkgate Hotel was performing in terms of revenue generation.

Abi Tierney noted that after a difficult start, the Parkgate Hotel was now delivering. Abi went on to
provide insights into the financial challenges faced by the WRU, including debt repayment and revenue
generation. The conversation revolved around restructuring debts, diversifying revenue streams, and the
impact of events like the European finals on regional clubs.
Malcolm Wall highlighted the significance of the Principality Stadium as a revenue-generating asset and
discussed strategies for financial sustainability.

5. Judgement Day
Barrie Jones raised the issue of seating arrangements at Judgement Day to enhance the spectator
experience.
Malcolm Wall assured plans for facilitating block seating and Nigel Walker confirmed the event’s return to
the Principality Stadium in the following season.

6. Women’s Rugby
Discussions centred on integrating women’s rugby with regional clubs, pathways for female players, and
promotional efforts for women’s competitions.
Nigel Walker and Abi Tierney emphasised the need for a clear strategy to develop women’s rugby at the
right pace whilst addressing infrastructure challenges.

7. Welsh Language
Barrie Jones highlighted the importance of Welsh language representation within the WRU, suggesting
updates to the organisation’s Welsh language website.

8. Any Other Business (AOB)
Gareth Storey expressed gratitude to Abi Tierney for her time, and Abi extended her willingness to
engage further with the supporter groups.

NEXT MEETING
April 2024 (specific date to be advised).

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We are excited to confirm that the Ospreys Supporters Club has shown its commitment to the up-and-coming talent in the region, by becoming the exclusive Player Sponsor of Harri Deaves.

Following his debut in 2022, Harri has regularly featured in the squad this season, including being named in the starting line-up for our recent wins over Sharks, Benneton, Scarlets, and Cardiff together with his Player of the Match performance against the Lions in South Africa.

Speaking on the announcement, Sarah Collins-Davies (OSC chair) said:

“We are delighted to be able to support the Ospreys this season through the sponsorship of one of our brightest future stars, Harri Deaves. We are proud to be a part of his journey which we are sure will go from strength to strength in the coming seasons and we look forward to working with the Ospreys as part of a successful partnership.”

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Our new OSC badges are now available!

The 2023-24 badges mirror the colours of our new European shirt with an aqua mask on a black nickel background.

All profits from badge sales go to the Ospreys Supporters Club chosen rugby related charity

You can purchase your badge on matchday at the Riverside Bar or from our online shop by clicking on the link below.

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SECRETARY’S REPORT

This year in an effort to avoid unnecessary duplication, the chair, Grant Berni and myself, decided to agree on a set focus for our reports. Consequently, it falls upon me to offer a reflective synopsis of what, in all honesty, been something of a turbulent year for the game in Wales. What, I hear you ask, is new in that? I think that the most significant factor is the absolute chaos that followed the revelations brought to light by a small, but brave and determined band of women who ensured that the WRU was finally brought to answer for some of its significantly damaging short comings. I am sure that members will join me in hoping for a significantly improved structure at the very top of Welsh rugby.

Back now to our primary focus, that being the season for our own team, the Ospreys. URC wise, it was certainly a mixed bag of results, but within the higher tier competition in Europe, we certainly provided a reason for optimism! Personally, I have to say beating Leicester at Welford Road, was equally matched by the whole experience at Saracens. We didn’t manage the win, but we did compete and were, in all honesty, unlucky to loose that day! Results aside though, the OSC filled 5 coaches to travel to the game, a big contribution to the 2,500 plus Ospreys supporters that were there to support the team that day. Ospreys Number 8 Morgan Morris and several other players reported that the sight of the, “Black Sea,” as they left the bus on arrival, was the highlight of their season! Enough said. I should like to take this opportunity of thanking those committee members who were responsible for running, “Operation Saracens,” a wonderful achievement.

Our charity activities, once again we excelled, raising £2,000 to support our nominated charity, “Sporting memories,” run by the OITC team. Once again thanks to all involved, for their fantastic efforts and of course, to our fantastically generous supporter base, who once again exceeded all expectations! Our speculative decision to diversify in to the millinery business and produce OSC bucket hats, proved to be successful, as we add different colours to our range this coming season! The addition of , “ Toby’s Tombola, ” to post match activities, has contributed to our charity fund and provided much entertainment! Thanks also to Ospreys Rugby and local businesses, who have donated prizes.

Last season we continued to contribute to the Ospreys Online Match day Programme, with various features on our pages, focussing heavily on our wonderful supporters, teams from our feeder clubs and rising stars.  Our thanks to Ospreys Rugby, who have ensured that we have received visits from players throughout the season. I think I speak for all Ospreys supporters, when I say, that we remain grateful to the players for coming over; especially those who have arrived straight off the field!  It means a lot to us all. Our system of awarding OSCAs (Groggs) to the players awarded Player of the Month/ Season, has once again proved popular with players and supporters alike.

Congratulations to Morgan Morris on winning the Player of the Season award, for the 2022-2023 season.

I think that I have covered everything, if not please forgive my lack of memory.

In conclusion, I would like to thank everyone who makes the OSC a success! It is my firm belief that the OSC extends beyond the management committee and includes all who hold a current season ticket, the current requirement for membership. Any member wanting to help in any way, please speak to one of the committee.

From a personal perspective, I would like to say that I am honoured to have served as OSC Secretary, this past season and thank everyone for the support I have received.

Keith. J.Collins. OSC Sec.

CHAIR’S REPORT

I’d like to start by rewinding to 2020 when we started planning how to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Ospreys Supporters Club.  As well as planning events for our 10^th anniversary, we set out some ground rules on how committee members should behave, we generated clear objectives for the OSC and a plan on how to achieve them.

From an ambitious 24-point action plan that’s now three years old, we’ve made significant progress and are a long way down the road to building on what we already did, so whilst the journey isn’t over, committee members should be proud of what we’ve achieve as a collective.

Our 3 objectives remain unchanged:

1. To be the best supporters club around
2. To have OSC committee members happy with what they do
3. To have OSC members happy with what we do

We plan to continue doing what OSC members find valuable in terms of matchday experience both at home, semi-home and at away games (Saracens last season will be a lasting memory for anyone who travelled to North London last season) & we value feedback from all OSC members to help shape how we develop what we do in the future.

Working relationships with the Ospreys and Ospreys in the Community remain in good health and I’d like to thank former Ospreys brand director Paul Whapham for helping establish more robust lines of communication with the OSC over the past few seasons.  Despite it being a given that the OSC supports Ospreys Rugby, we don’t always see eye to eye and I appreciate that the Ospreys management value the voice of the OSC and do listen to our concerns when we raise them.

On another positive note, work continues as part of Joint Supporters Group Cymru and meetings with the WRU resumed after Ieuan Evans and with Nigel Walker took up the two senior leadership positions.  Meetings have continued following the appointment of Richard Collier-Keywood as chair & we aim to continue to provide a voice for supporters of the professional game with the governing body.

I’d like to thank the committee members for their hard work throughout the season and say thanks to Nigel Maggs, who stepped down during last season.

Thanks again to the committee members, to the Ospreys and most of all to our membership – here’s to the new season.

Grant Berni, OSC Chair

TREASURER’S REPORT – Year ending 30/06/23

We opened the 2022 /23 season with a carried forward balance of £2,214 and at the 30th of June
2023, we reported a closing balance of £5,307.

Within that, I would just like to take some time to highlight some figures of material significance:

We received £500 in sponsorship money from Sportsbreaks.com. We would like to note our thanks to Sportsbreaks.com for their support in recent seasons, enabling us to fund our Player of the Month and Player of the Season awards.

Badge and Tombola proceeds totalled £2,507 – thanks for this must go to the loyal supporter base and Riverside regulars for their ongoing support. As a result of their generosity, we have been able to donate more than £2,000 to Ospreys in the Community and their Sporting Memories Project. The donation has been made since the closing of the 22/23 season accounts and will be reported in next season’s figures.

In terms of expenditure, we spent £775 on Groggs / our Player of the Month and Season awards. As previously noted, the majority of this cost has been covered by the sponsorship received via Sportsbreaks.com.

Badge sales covered the initial outlay of £588 to purchase the badges, with any profit then added to our fundraising for OitC.

Following a successful trip to Saracens for our last 16 Champions Cup tie, we made a profit on bus sales of £1,446. It is never our intention to make money on such trips and even in a climate of ever increasing costs, we endeavour to make transport as affordable and accessible as possible. The money generated from this trip was as a result of unprecedented uptake and a significant effort to organise five supporter buses for the game. Some of the profit offset the £130 loss made on the Neath bus, enabling us to keep that service running.

We have expanded our supporter merchandise offering with the sale of OSC bucket hats. Sales covered the initial outlay on these, with any profits intended for investment in enhancing the supporter match day experience.

Other small items of expenditure incurred as a result of running our core activities, can be shared as part of the full end of year account. We have continued to be self-financing and again, have not required financial input from Ospreys Rugby.

We have continued to develop our online shop and the option for contactless payment has proven popular with supporters. The efforts of committee members to continually improve what we can offer and in the most convenient way possible, is hugely appreciated by myself
and others involved.

Louise Collins-Davies, OSC Treasurer

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The Ospreys Supporters Cub’s Annual General Meeting will take place at 18:30, Monday 13th  November at the Swansea.com Stadium.

All OSC members (season ticket holders) are invited to attend and to stand for election to the committee should they wish to do so (providing conditions laid out in the constitution are met – see the link below). If you have the energy, commitment and the skills to contribute to the OSC, please email keith@ospreyssupportersclub.com to find out more or to submit an application to join the committee.

Applicants will need to meet the conditions laid out in the OSC constitution, (link below). 

Further details about the AGM and committee and can be found here in the OSC constitution

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Meeting Minutes: JSG WRU Meeting

Date: 10^th May 2023

Attendees:

• Nigel Walker (WRU)
• Ieuan Evans (WRU)
• Malcolm Wall (WRU)
• Barrie Jones (Crys16)
• Keith Collins (OSC)
• Grant Berni (OSC)
• Lynn Glaister (CF10)
• Simon Harrington (CBSC)
• Dan Hallett (DOSC)

Agenda Item 1: PRA Deal and Payment Strategy

• Nigel Walker provided an update on the PRA deal, stating that it is currently subject to banking consent. NatWest has granted the required permission, but the process with the Welsh Government is ongoing. Some advanced payments have been made to the regions to support them during this delay. The lending arrangements and due diligence have caused the process to take longer than anticipated. The completion is expected within the next couple of weeks, and the WRU is in daily contact with the Welsh government to meet their requirements.
• Lynn Glaister raised a question about whether the WRU proceeded with the agreement without making the necessary arrangements with the Welsh Government. Nigel Walker assured that this was not the case.
• Malcolm Wall emphasized the importance of the deal’s long-term planning opportunities and highlighted the need to develop academies, improve player pathways, and enhance commercial efforts to attract more funding for the game. The WRU and the regions are working together to create a plan to raise additional funds during the six-year framework.
• Barrie Jones inquired about the expected completion date of the deal. Nigel Walker acknowledged the time sensitivity and stated that every month that passes the more difficult it has been for the regions but everything possible was being done to assist, the regions. The WRU is working closely with the Welsh Government to expedite the due diligence process and aims to complete it within the next couple of weeks.

Agenda Item 2: Professional Rugby Strategy

• Lynn Glaister expressed concerns about the number of players being released from clubs. Nigel Walker explained that player releases at this time of the year are common, and the regions have retained the majority of their players. Cardiff is an exception, where some players have been released due to specific circumstances. Nigel Walker confirmed that a strategy day is planned next month, where the WRU and regions will collaborate to develop a comprehensive strategy for professional rugby in Wales.
• Lynn Glaister emphasized the importance of having a comprehensive strategy that provides hope for the future of Welsh rugby. She also inquired about the duties of Mick Hogan, who has been brought in as a consultant to the PRB (Professional Rugby Board). Malcolm Wall clarified that Mick Hogan’s role is solely focused on improving the commercial performance of the regions.
• Barrie Jones sought assurances that the WRU would not adopt the Scottish or Italian models of reducing the number of professional teams. Nigel Walker assured that the PRB has discussed and voted to stick with the four-region model, and there have been no changes in this regard.
• Ieuan Evans highlighted the significance of improved commercial performances to sustain the four regions and stated that it’s the size of the cake, not the size of the slice, that matters.
• Dan Hallett inquired about the progress on the independent ownership of the Dragons. Nigel Walker stated that the conclusion of the independent ownership is on track within the specified time limit, without disclosing the specific timeframe.

Agenda Item 3: Squad Sizes

• Nigel Walker mentioned that squad sizes in the regions have traditionally been around 48-50 players. However, going forward, he anticipates squad sizes to be reduced to 40-42 players. This reduction presents a challenge but also an opportunity to give younger players a chance. He clarified that this does not mean having a team primarily composed of 18-20 year-olds. The intention is to review the inclusion of 21-23 year-old players who traditionally wouldn’t have had such opportunities. The adjustment has been made for financial reasons, and the squad sizes will be kept under review.
• Lynn Glaister sought clarification regarding the squad size target of 40-42 players, citing information that Cardiff is likely to have only 39 players next season. Nigel Walker acknowledged the slight deviation but mentioned that initial discussions with the regions indicated a target of around 42 players. He acknowledged the challenge this presents but assured that it would be monitored closely.
• Dan Hallett raised concerns about player safety in case of a run of injuries in specific positions, such as props. Nigel Walker emphasized that player safety is of utmost importance, and they would not field a player between 17-19 years old who is not capable of competing at that level. He mentioned the consideration of loan systems if a region is unable to field a complete team due to injuries.
• Regarding the impact of call-ups to the national squad and Six Nations on squad sizes, Dan Hallett highlighted the possibility of some teams being significantly reduced, with Ospreys potentially losing a full team. Nigel Walker stated that the URC season starts later this year, allowing time for players to join their teams after national duties. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with Ospreys about the challenges they may face during certain stages of the season. The situation will be monitored closely.
• Barrie Jones emphasized that the World Cup period will be challenging for all professional sides. Nigel Walker acknowledged the difficulty and affirmed the need to find solutions.
• Keith Collins raised concerns about the potential for increased injuries if more players are away with the national team. Nigel Walker discussed a conversation with an Ospreys colleague, who mentioned that the team had a relatively good year in terms of injuries. However, if the attrition rate increases, it will pose a challenge. Player welfare and fixture fulfilment are paramount, and measures such as loan systems will be considered to ensure safe participation if a team cannot field a complete squad.
• Keith Collins expressed his appreciation for the response and the consideration of player welfare.

Agenda Item 4: WRU Cost Savings

• Lynn Glaister inquired about cost reductions within the WRU and whether all parties are sharing the burden. Nigel Walker confirmed that the WRU has been actively seeking cost-saving measures over the past three months. Initially, there was a significant gap between available funds and planned expenditure, but this gap has been closed through cost-cutting and savings across various areas.
• Dan Hallett raised the topic of the finance director leaving, which leaves a vacancy at the top of the organization. Nigel Walker explained that the deputy finance director will assume the role temporarily, and the position will be advertised in the Autumn.
• Lynn Glaister mentioned that fans would like more details about the cost savings made. Malcolm Wall clarified that the funding provided by the WRU to the professional clubs has not been reduced; rather, the focus has been on ensuring that clubs manage their spending within their income. He emphasized that investments in development have not been cut as they are vital for the long-term future. While there have been cost cuts within the WRU, Malcolm Wall expressed concerns about the perception that funding had been reduced

Agenda Item 5: WRU Enquiry

• Barrie Jones requested an update on the WRU enquiry.
• Nigel Walker informed the attendees that an independent review, chaired by Dame Rafferty, has been ongoing for approximately 10-11 weeks. Two reports have been received so far, and interviews have taken place with more scheduled in the coming weeks. The report is expected to be delivered within the next three to four months.
• Lynn Glaister acknowledged the importance of independent reviews and expressed the need to move forward.
• Nigel Walker stated that the organization is committed to implementing the review recommendations in full. He highlighted the progress made by the organization over the past 18 months, recognizing the continuous need for improvement. The report is eagerly awaited to understand the existing gaps and receive recommendations for further improvement. The organization strives to become more inclusive and enhance its contribution to Welsh rugby.
• Ieuan Evans emphasized the importance of not being stagnant during the independent panel review and expressed the determination to continue evolving across the entire organization.
• Lynn Glaister inquired about potential conflicts between the major reforms being implemented, such as executive changes and November elections, and the review recommendations.
• Nigel Walker expressed confidence that the announced governance changes, including the introduction of independent non-executive directors and the goal of having at least five women on the board, align with best practices. The organization has designated Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) champions on the main board and executive board, established a whistle-blowing hotline, and formed an ED&I steering group. He assured that these initiatives will not contradict the review recommendations.
• Ieuan Evans emphasized the need for continuous review, assessment, and measurement in governance, emphasizing that it is crucial for all organizations.
• Lynn Glaister asked if the WRU would be involved in promoting wider diversity of governance within the regions.
• Nigel Walker explained that discussions regarding diversity of governance have been taking place over the past few months. It is the responsibility of all organizations involved in Welsh rugby. During the district visits to discuss governance changes, several clubs requested assistance, and the WRU has committed to providing support. The organization aims to understand the current gap and learn from the ongoing review to share knowledge and work collaboratively with clubs and regions.

Agenda Item 6: Any Other Business (AOB)

• Lynn Glaister informed the attendees that the URC has reached out to the Joint Supporters Group (JSG) to seek opinions regarding their PR and communications. A meeting has been scheduled with the URC in the near future.
• Ieuan Evans expressed his satisfaction with the URC’s initiative.
• Malcolm Wall confirmed the awareness of the URC’s request and stated that the received report will be incorporated into the strategy days mentioned by Nigel Walker. The organization is collecting input from various stakeholders, including themselves.
• Barrie Jones asked if there was anything the organization would like to see from JSG.
• Malcolm Wall expressed the need for increased support at games to drive progress and achieve bigger and better outcomes. He thanked everyone for their support and emphasized the importance of its continuation.
• Barrie Jones provided an example of the successful marketing of the European Challenge Cup quarter-final by the Scarlets, resulting in a significant turnout of local attendees. He expressed the hope that these attendees would continue to engage with the organization.
• Ieuan Evans emphasized the positive influence and impact of scenes and support like those witnessed at the quarter final. He highlighted the value of parochial support in fostering the game of rugby union.
• Keith Collins mentioned the remarkable support of over 2000 Ospreys fans during an away game against Saracens. He shared the players’ awe at the overwhelming turnout. He also stressed the importance of shedding the perception that it is the Welsh Rugby Union versus the four regions, and instead promoting unity.
• Nigel Walker emphasized that it is Welsh rugby as a whole that needs to succeed, not just the regions or Wales. He highlighted the interdependency between the success of the regions and the senior men’s team. Sustainable success requires successful regions.
• Keith Collins expressed frustration over having to play URC games with a depleted squad and welcomed the Union’s willingness to collaborate rather than work against the regions.
• Lynn Glaister shared positive feedback regarding the Women’s 6 Nations, noting that friends who attended the games and had not previously watched rugby were now considering attending pro games at the Arms Park due to the enjoyable atmosphere. She thanked Nigel for the improvement in the women’s game and highlighted the potential for traction in the women’s rugby market.
• Nigel Walker acknowledged the efforts of Ioan Cunningham’s coaches, support staff, and players, highlighting their hard work and deserving rewards.
• Lynn Glaister inquired about the timeline for appointing the new chief executive and chair.
• Ieuan Evans confirmed that they are currently in the process of shortlisting candidates for the independent chair, and subsequent appointments will follow. It is anticipated that all positions will be filled before the end of the year, with the independent chair being the first appointment.
• Lynn Glaister asked if the commitment to having either the Chair or Chief Exec be a woman still stands.
• Nigel Walker affirmed the aspiration to have five women on the board and either the chair or chief executive position. However, the organization recognizes that the best candidates for the roles need to be selected, and achieving the aspiration might require multiple stages rather than a single step.
• Ieuan Evans reassured attendees that they are pleased with the number and quality of candidates.
• Barrie Jones concluded the meeting by expressing gratitude to all attendees. He noted that the minutes would be agreed upon by all parties before being issued to the members. The next meeting is scheduled for August 9th.

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