Here is the info for the upcoming EPRU AGM. Please note that formatting may be a bit off on the website but all of this information will be emailed to Club Leadership so please consult those documents if any questions arise.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/9695002652
Meeting ID: 969 500 2652
AGM Agenda:
I. Call to order
II. Roll call
III. Referee Report – Len Borcky
IV. Budget – Ray Fritz
V. Board Election – Micalah Morrison
VI. Proposed By-Law Changes – Micalah Morrison
VII. Club Competition Report – Dave Codell
VIII. Player/Club Registration (New Rugby Xplorer System)
IX. Collegiate Competition Report – Scott Stratton
X. Women’s 15s – Kristen Ailberto
XI. Open discussion
XII. Adjournment
Board Election info:
Returning Members:
Dave Codell – Philadelphia Gryphons
Ray Fritz – Philadelphia Gryphons
Liz Malazita – East Penn Rugby Referee Society
Micalah Morrison – Brandywine
Scott Stratton – Harrisburg
Doc Zimmerman – Jersey Shore
2022 Candidates:
Alexander Diegel – Old Gaelic
Artrice Sanders – Philadelphia RFC
Chris Ward – Blackthorn
Daniel Abel – Hibernian RFC
Julian Bellman – Doylestown
Karen Hall – Phoenixville
Kirby Gordon – Reading Valley
Kyle Antoian – Philadelphia Whitemarsh
Lindsay Watson – Brandywine
Lorraine Avery-Easterwood – Wilmington
Morgan Mattia- East Stroudsburg University/Philadelphia RFC
Ryan McHugh – Schuylkill River
Ryan McLean – Philadelphia Whitemarsh
Tom Saunders – Northeast Philadelphia
Candidate Bios:
PLEASE NOTE! The candidate bios will be emailed to Club leadership in a much better format that will include more info. If anything looks a little off in terms of formatting etc that is not the fault of the candidates. Please have your club leadership consult the official document that was emailed out.
Alexander Diegel
Email: diegelam@gmail.com
Member Club: Old Gaelic Men
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
To the voting members of the EPRU Board,
I write to you to express my interest in serving as an EPRU Board Member. My intentions as a member of the Board are to provide a strong and measured voice in regard to the vision and development of our Union. I believe the experiences from my rugby career, particularly on the administrative side, will prove to be of value within the EPRU. The experiences mentioned above stem from being part of Club leadership for the past decade and culminate in my current position as Old Gaelic Rugby Club President. The fact that a team of my peers trusted me to steer the ship is a source of tremendous pride for me, and not a role I take lightly. I truly believe that I am ready to take that responsibility to the next level within our Union.
As much as (of course) I have my own Club’s interests at heart, I trend toward strengthening the EPRU as a whole. That is evident in the formation of the Central Penn 7s Program, an endeavor that was new for our (South Central Pennsylvania) region, and which I was a driving factor in creating. The key ethos behind creation of this program was to raise the level of play, with a goal of sending a second EPRU team to Club 7s Nationals. It’s a lofty mission that we hope to complete in the non-too-distant future.
I do sincerely hope that the voting members of this party see that my loyalty to this Union will make me a great fit for a Board Member position, as we continue to prove that the standard of play here in the EPRU is on par with any across the country.
Yours in Rugby,
Alexander Diegel
Old Gaelic Rugby President
Founder, Central Penn 7s
North American Rugby Journalist
• President, Vice-Captain, Assistant Forwards Coach, Old Gaelic Rugby
• Founder, Central Penn’s Premier 7s Program
• Received 200 Level Coaching certification through USA Rugby (2018)
• Vice President, Captain, Potomac Exiles (2014-17)
• Captain, Capital/Old Glory Selects (2014-17)
• Communications Officer, Maryland Exiles (2012-14)
Artrice Sanders
Email: artrice.sanders@gmail.com
Member Club: Philadelphia RFC
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
I would be interested in nominating myself as a member of the EPRU Board of Directors. Although I have not played in many years I would love to step back into the administrative/support realm for future players.
• Drexel University from 1999-2001
• Philadelphia Women’s Rugby Club from 2001 – 2008.
Chris Ward
Email: wolfman9472@verizon.net
Member Club: Blackthorn
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
I would like to help the union take care of the game.
• Assistant coach EPRU college Women’s All-Stars
• Head Coach Moravian University
• EPRRS Ref
• Coach youth rugby at blackthorn
• East Stroudsburg University Alumni President
• Player for Blackthorn
• Premiership Scholarship winner
• Played at ESU
Daniel Abel
Email: Danvschef@yahoo.com
Member Club: Hibernian Rugby Football Club
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
EPRU Nomination ,
My name is Daniel Abel I am the newly appointed president of the Hibernian Rugby Football Club. Formerly the Vice President. I am an active player in the men’s club division. As well as a certified level 200 coach. I have been coaching with Yardley Makefield Rookie Rugby for 5 years. I previously coached the Hibernian U19 Bulls. As a club we are rebuilding our youth clubs to include U15 and U19 Boys and Girls with Yardley Makefield as our feeder program. I am nominating myself for an EPRU Board position. I have a love for the sport and the culture that comes with it. I have 3 kids that are rugby players my eldest son was a PA all state player. Both my youngest daughters currently play for Yardley Makefield. Ellsea 8 has been playing for 5 and Sofiya 13 has played for 6 years. I would love the opportunity to grow the sport of rugby in PA.
Very motivated coach with 1O years’ experience coaching various age groups from men to kindergarten. A mentor to new and old players with a very positive attitude. Worked with various clubs as well as outside organizations to grow the sport.
● Active level 200 coach with current certifications
● President Of Hibernian Rugby Football Club
● Active coach for Hibernian U15 and U19 Clubs (boys and girls)
● Active player
● Active coach for Yardley Makefield Rookie Rugby ages Pre K to U13
Please don’t hesitate to contact me at Danvschef@yahoo.com or (215)913-7895.
Julian Bellman
Email: julbellman@gmail.com
Member Club: Doylestown/Harpooners
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
If elected, I would love to work on increasing the EPRU brand (this includes figuring out how to get more eyes on all the matches and teams in the league). I would also prefer to work on league wide comradery. Rugby should be a game played by many and inclusive to all. The feel from rugby around here is a little standoffish. It would be nice to get the groups to engage with one another in activities other than just on the field. I know the league spans a great distance, but I would try to see how we could get other activities going to build up the EPRU rugby network and engagement. I know these are both large undertakings and might not be easily handled, but those are where I feel we could use more guidance. However, I am open to suggestions and if the majority want to go a different route, I don’t mind pivoting and helping where I can.
2021-Current – Doylestown Rugby
• 2021-Current Player
• 2022 Junior Boys Assistant Coach
• 2022 Men’s Team VP
2020-Current – Harpooners (Player)
2020 HSBC World Rugby Seven Series (Team Liaison)
2010-2012 – Albright Rugby (Player)
2019-2021 – Providence Rugby (Player)
2018-2019 – Albright Rugby (Head Coach)
2012-2018 – Doylestown Rugby
• 2012-2018 Player
• 2014-2016 Website Person
• Helped create and write the By-Laws to get Doylestown it’s 501c(3) status
Note – outside of being a USA Rugby Level 200 Coach, I’m also a USA Rugby Level 100 Ref and USA Rugby Level 100 S&C Certified. I am also the D2M Coordinator for EPRU.
Karen Hall
Email: hall.karen07@gmail.com
Member Club: Phoenixville Women’s
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
I’ve been around the game of rugby for most of my life including high school, college, and beyond and I’ve had the opportunity to play against or alongside players from every Club in our Union. I know the landscape very well and am always on the lookout for ways to stay involved in the rugby community. My experience and perspective would be valuable on the Board for the benefit of our membership regardless of division.
Rugby Resume:
• Started playing rugby for Brandywine women as a high school junior and remained through graduation.
• Played varsity rugby for West Chester University under well-known coach Tony DeRemer.
• Rejoined Brandywine upon college graduation and remained there until 2018.
• Joined Phoenixville women in fall of 2018 and remain an active player for the club.
• In this time, I’ve played on too many social/tournament sides to count and also played for the EPRU Women’s 15s side that earned a win against New York Rugby Club this spring.
Kirby Gordon
Email: Kirby.gordon93@gmail.com
Member Club: Reading Valley
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
To the EPRU,
This letter serves to demonstrate my intent to run for a Board Member position. I have been a player, referee, and division coordinator within the EPRU and believe that I have much to offer on the Board. It’s important to grow this sport and create an inclusive place for anyone who desires to be part of that growth.
When I began playing in Fall 2018, I was looking to make friends and be more active. Rugby gave me those things and much more. I’ve gained confidence and amazing support systems through this sport and hope to give that experience to others. As D3 Coordinator, I helped to organize the Lentz Cup in Spring 2022, which allowed for some teams to play against some new faces. I’ve also been involved with All-Star programming, which has given players the chance to further develop their skills and play against higher level teams outside of the EPRU.
I also believe it’s worth noting that diversity, equity, and inclusion are important to me personally and as an active player. Rugby is a sport for all, regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and any other identifier that people may have a prejudice against. Blackyardigans Rugby Club was started to create a space for Black players to be unapologetically themselves and have a supportive network of players that understand what it’s like to be Black in a predominantly white sport. While teams like the Blackyardigans are important, it is also important that the EPRU ensure that all players feel welcomed onto any of our teams and that no player feels worry or concern that they cannot be their full self around their own team.
It is my hope that I have your vote to become a board member for the Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union. I look forward to doing the work to grow this sport and creating a safe space for everyone within the EPRU.
Sincerely,
Kirby Gordon
NON-PLAYER EXPERIENCE
• Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Referees Society – Level 1 Referee
February 2022 – Present
• Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union – Women’s Division III Coordinator
Spring 2022 – Present
• Phoenixville White Horse Women’s Rugby Club-Recruiting Coordinator
Spring 2019 – Summer 2020
PLAYER EXPERIENCE
• Reading Women’s Rugby Club (Reading Valley) (Summer 2021 – Present)
• Blackyardigans Rugby Club (Spring 2022 – Present)
• Phoenixville White Horse Women’s Rugby Club (Fall 2018 – Summer 2020)
AWARDS
• Reading Valley Most Valuable Player, Fall 2021
Kyle Antoian
Email: kyle.antoian@gmail.com
Member Club: Philadelphia Whitemarsh
Professional Resume
Letter of Intent:
I am running for the board after a 2-year hiatus because I am taking some time off from work and would like to spend more time helping build community rugby. Having served in administrative roles on the EPRU, Empire GU, and with clubs like NYRC and PWRFC I feel I am uniquely qualified to continue driving the EPRU”s strategic objectives. Some of my accomplishments during my tenure ad a rugby administrator include:
• Complete rewrite of EPRU by-laws in 2019, including securing a pro-bono legal counsel for the EPRU
• Secured corporate sponsorship in 2019 to fund “EPRU Match Balls” for all EPRU members free of charge
• Created and managed a new competition model in Empire GU (when GUs did not yet exist and were being formed out of LAUs)
• Negotiated new sponsorship and equipment deals at NYRC and PWRFC generating significant revenue for both clubs
Along with my administrative roles noted in my resume, I am also proud to note that I sit on the board of Play Rugby USA, a NY based non-profit focused on bringing rugby to under-served communities in NYC (I have served on this board since 2019 and currently chair their Governance Committee)
Thank you for considering my application and let me know if you have any additional questions.
EPRU
• Board Member: 2018-2019
Philadelphia-Whitemarsh RFC
• Head Coach: 2015-2017
• Attack Coach: 2017 – Present
Empire Geographic Union (GU)
• Men’s Competition Chair: 2012-2013
• VP Rugby Ops: 2013-2014
New York Rugby Club
• Board Member: 2012 – 2015
• U19 Boys Coach: 2011 – 2014
• Asst. Men’s Coach: 2009 – 2015
Duke University RFC
• President: 2003
• Captain: 2005-2006
• Coach: 2004 – 2006
• 4 Year Starter: 2002 -2006
Conestoga High School RFC
Berwyn, PA
• 2 Year Starter | 2000-2002
Lindsay Watson
Email: lindsay.m.watson@gmail.com
Member Club: Brandywine Women’s
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
I wish to be considered for another term on the EPRU Board of Directors. Not only have I been an active member of the EPRU Board of Directors for the last eight years, I’ve also been involved as both a player and administrator at the college and senior club level in the EPRU for more than 20 years (Franklin & Marshall College and Brandywine WRFC). I’ve used my professional experience to serve on both the Budget Allocation and Finance Committees and also served three years as Treasurer. I’ve also worked as a member of the Election Committee to bring on new directors who collectively represent the membership as a whole. If elected to another term, I hope to grow our membership by making rugby culture in our geographic area more inclusive; all participants should feel welcome regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity. I’ll advocate for the small college teams, the clubs that are struggling for numbers, the players who want to play at the elite level and those looking for great fun on a Saturday. I’ll continue to show up, listen to the perspectives of others and ask the tough questions, always stressing the importance of data-driven decisions and transparency to our members. Thank you in advance for your consideration.
Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union Board of Directors September 2014 – Present
• Treasurer/Executive Committee – September 2015 – August 2018
• Finance Committee – September 2018 – August 2019
• Election Committee – 2015, 2019, 2021
Brandywine Women’s Rugby Football Club August 2006 – Present
• Active Player/Member for 14 consecutive years, Board member for 13 consecutive years
• Recruiting Chair – 2007
• President – 2008-2010, 2013-2016
• Treasurer – 2017-Present
• Backs Captain – 2007-2008 (2008 MARFU Champions, 4th Place Nationals)
• Forwards Captains – 2011-2012
• Cheesesteak 7s Tournament Co-Director – 2009-Present
USA Rugby Event Staff May 2016 – January 2017
• National Collegiate 7s Championship, Cary NC – May 2016
• National Development Summit, Baltimore MD – January 2017
Franklin & Marshall College Women’s Rugby January 2000 – May 2003
• Treasurer – 2001-2002
• President – 2002-2003
• Co-Captain/Player Coach – 2002-2003
Level 200 Certified Coach
• Indiana University of PA Women’s RFC Assistant Coach – May 2014 (Div II 3rd Place Nationals)
Lorraine Avery-Easterwood
Email: lorraine.avery19@gmail.com
Member Club: Wilmington
Dear EPRU Board of Directors & EPRU Community,
It would be an honor to serve on the Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union Board for 2022-2024. To collaborate.
My years as a past president and various team administrative support for my home club helped me to prepare for such a position. I have had the opportunity over the last 5 years to experience the rugby culture and community by playing and supporting not only my home club but other teams such as the Olde Girls, and the Wandering Warriors. I continue to seek out these experiences to learn more about the sport and supporting those who want to grow the sport at all levels. This has driven me to obtain certifications in refereeing, rookie rugby, and coaching, attending the Women’s Rugby Coaches & Referees Association conference, becoming an individual of the USWRF Pioneers Club, and donating to causes such as the XV Foundation.
I am grateful of this opportunity to apply for the board position, I would serve proudly and fervently. I would bring all of my experiences from my rugby, professional, and community leadership to strive to make decisions and for our Union. Furthermore, I would continue the commitment and legacy that the previous Boards have provided.
WILMINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION
May 2018 – Present
• Active Women’s Team Player
• Women’s Team Manager 2019-2020
• President 2020 – 2022
• Rookie Rugby
MISCELLANEOUS RUGBY EXPERIENCE
• WRCRA Conference 2019
• Member USWRF Pioneers Club
• OLDE GIRLS – CAN AMS 2021-2022
• Wandering Warriors – Savannah 2022
• Referee Certification 2019
• Coaching Certification 2021
Morgan Mattia
Email: morganmattia14@gmail.com
Member Club: East Stroudsburg University/Philadelphia RFC
Letter of Intent:
Collegiate rugby players are currently the largest membership group of the EPRU. However, these collegiate athletes have the lowest representation on the board that not only oversees their rugby seasons but their rugby opportunities. Collegiate rugby players are an essential part of this union as they are the building blocks of the future. Most rugby players have been introduced to the sport during their college careers. Therefore, their experience in college determines whether or not they continue to play rugby in general but more specifically in the EPRU. As a current player in the EPRU’s collegiate sector, I want to be the representative for all EPRU collegiate athletes.
As a board member, I intend to put my focus on improving the intensity and competitiveness of the women’s collegiate side. I feel as though this part of the EPRU needs more. More games in regular seasons, more select side opportunities, clinics, and all-stars. There is a lot of rising talent that can bring great success to this union, but it needs to be seen. To do so, the EPRU needs to create more opportunities for women to play competitive rugby. The EPRU needs to shift its focus to the younger generation of rugby players and spend more time and effort expanding their rugby opportunities.
Although I want to make the changes stated above, I am very thankful for everything the EPRU has done for me. Becoming a member of the EPRU has given me a rugby family, my best friends, and moments I will never forget. I want to get involved as this organization has taught me so much more than just rugby, and I want others to experience the same.
Rugby Resume
Teams Played for:
• East Stroudsburg University Women’s Rugby Club
• Philadelphia Women’s Rugby Club
• EPRU Collegiate Allstars
• EPRU Women’s 15s Select Side
• U23 Mid-Atlantic USA Young Glory Allstars
Awards/ Accomplishments
• Member of the Small College 7s National Championship team of 2022
• Small College National 7s Championship overall MVP 2022
Leadership Positions
• Vice President of East Stroudsburg University Women’s Rugby Club
Ryan McHugh
Email: rmchugh04@gmail.com
Member Club: Schuylkill River
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
I have proudly served on this Board for the past two years (one on the Executive Committee as Disciplinary Chair) and have truly enjoyed the experience and would be honored to continue in this role. During these past two years, I have assisted in the creation of the inaugural EPRU 7s Circuit as well as the Lentz Cup. I have also supported the initiative of reimbursing new coaches and referees through the Dana Bateman Memorial Grant Program. I am also a staunch supporter of providing financial assistance to our members for travel come National Playoff time.
I began playing rugby in 1997 while at St. Joseph’s University and can honestly say it was one of the best decisions of my life. I fell in love with the game immediately, not only because of the athletic demands, but more importantly the real life applications such as teamwork, communication, dedication, and perseverance that it teaches. I owe this game immensely, as a majority of best friends, employment opportunities, and travel have come through rugby. I am a big believer in paying it forward and that is why I want to continue the work the Board does for our fellow ruggers and continue to grow the game, as I know the positive change it can have on one’s life.
I have been playing for 25 years and am still an active player for Schuylkill River Exiles. In this time I have played for St. Joseph’s University, Media Rugby, Caves and Ditches (CanAm), and Schuylkill River and have captained each of these sides to some degree. I currently sit on the Board of Directors as Match Secretary for Schuylkill (I held the same position at Media) and previously was the Treasurer. I also serve on the team’s Advisory Board.
I am a Level 200 Coach and have been the Head Coach of Schuylkill River Exiles 7’s Open Side in the past. I have been an assistant coach at St. Joseph’s Prep, Princeton University Women’s Rugby and Cabrini University Men’s Rugby. Along the way, I have also coached at Temple University(men) and Neumann University(women). In past years, I have helped run rugby clinics at the Boys and Girls Club in Northeast Philadelphia (which I am hoping to bring back) and worked with Narberth Rugby on their flag rugby program . I am also a certified referee.
I am passionate about the game and even more passionate about giving back to it and always growing it. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Ryan McLean
Email: Joseph.Ryan.McLean@gmail.com
Member Club: Philadelphia Whitemarsh
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
I am stating my intent to be a candidate for election to the EPRU Board of Directors. I have been an active member of the EPRU since 2011, holding a number of different operational and administrative roles for clubs in the area.
Currently, I am the President of Philadelphia-Whitemarsh RFC where I oversee club operations. In this position, most recently, I coordinated the Surfside 7s Referee Clinic that was a strong success with 19 participants; many of which ref’d their first matches the next day during the tournament.
I have a strong desire to grow the game of rugby. In addition, I have a good knowledge of the local rugby landscape and wish to provide my help in furthering the society and its members. One goal of mine if elected would be to provide better transparency and communication between the overseeing organizations (USA Rugby, EPRU, MAC, etc.) and the rugby clubs / players.
Playing Career:
• Conestoga High School 2007-09
• Marquette University 2009-10
• Philadelphia-Whitemarsh RFC 2011-Present
Coaching Career:
• Conestoga U13 Head Coach 2014-18
• St. Joe’s Univ. Forwards Coach 2021-Present
Administrative:
• Philadelphia Whitemarsh RFC
• Vice President 2018-20
• President 2020-Present
Certifications:
• USA Rugby Referee Level 100
• USA Rugby Coaching Level 200
Tom Saunders
Email: tmsaunders925@gmail.com
Member Club: Northeast Philadelphia
Rugby Resume/Letter of Intent:
Having played 11 years of rugby, I feel like there are many ways how I can give back to the rugby community and grow the game especially in my home union. I think I can be an asset to the EPRU in many ways. For the last 2 years I have helped organize the Philadelphia 10s tourney. I was also reached out to by Union President Dave Codell to help organize last year’s EPRU Origin Tourney and have goals to make it even better this year. Having played multiple forms rugby at a high level and having my Level 200 cert in coaching has helped me see the game in a different perspective and believe helped my game grow. In conclusion, I would like to nominate myself for an EPRU board position and be to great representative for all of the EPRU!
I have 11 years of rugby experience…
Teams played for
• Father Judge rugby
• Northeast Philadelphia rugby club
• Philadelphia Fight Rugby league
• Have played select side for Philly United and USARL all stars in rugby league.
Leadership Positions
• Last 2 years have been the Men’s President for Northeast Philadelphia rugby club.
Certifications
• Level 200 coaching
Awards/ Accomplishments
• 2019 EPRU champion and Mac champion
Proposed Bylaw Amendments:
PLEASE NOTE! The Proposed Bylaw Amendments have also been emailed out to Club Leadership in a document with much better formatting. Please have your club leadership consult the official document to ensure they are seeing the changes proposed. Proposed deletions should appear as struck through while proposed additions should appear in bold.
Amendment Proposal Changes Submitted
CHANGE #1
Section 3.03
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.
(a) The Union shall hold an “Annual General Meeting” (or “AGM”) each year.
(b) The AGM will be held in the month of September January of each Fiscal Year until or at such other time as the Board may determine from time to time.
(c) The AGM shall be conducted for the purpose of electing Directors to the open Board or Director’s seats under the terms of Section 4.03, creating additional Officer positions and/or removing Officers under the terms of Section 5.01, ,and transacting any other business the Board considers necessary or advisable.
Member: This date is not “in season” and provides a better change for participation. It is also more convenient for our college women’s side because their leadership should be well established, unlike Aug and Sept when they are just getting back to school.
ExCo: January is time of year that we are planning our championship events, playoffs, Lentz Cup, etc. It’s difficult to bring a new Board in at that time. Additionally, if Competition Coordinators were to be elected at the AGM it is asking for the coordinators to be swapped out midway through the competitive cycle. This was previously discussed and Scott Stratton indicated that the teams have leadership in place heading into the fall. If the collegiate coordinator isn’t asking for this, then we should not be concerned. Not in favor at this time. With how much planning was going on last January, wiping the Board clean and starting over is not in the best interest of the EPRU and its members.
BoD: 9/10 opposed (90%)
CHANGE #2
Section 4.06 VACANCIES.
Any vacancy in the Board arising at any time and from any cause may be filled by a majority vote of the Board. The Board will draw from a list of qualified candidates from the previous election and confirmation of willingness to serve. Each Director so elected shall hold office until the end of the term of the vacating Director.
Member: Our method of choosing a candidate to fill the position (a voting position) needs to be better defined. We cannot just say…”hey, Jane Doe would be good on the board….” We need to contact more candidates. Actually, we first need to decide if the position should be filled. Are we “required” to fill it immediately??? That needs to be defined as well. I think the fact we have a board position open right now that is not filled is opening us up to some serious criticism. But we can’t just toss any person in there. The recent suggestion to fill the position a random candidate was very inappropriate.
ExCo: This is an attempting to have it both ways. This change seeks to limit replacement candidates but the reasoning says it is because “we need to contact more candidates.” Additionally, the reasoning suggests that we need to decide whether the position should be filled but goes on to say that having an open board position is opening us up to some serious criticism. So again, trying to have it both ways, we need to determine whether the position should be filled but not filling it opens us to criticism. If there is an opening on the board throughout the year we wouldn’t want to limit ourselves to people who were in the previous election. However, the Board could always decide to put out an open call for candidates if contacting more candidates is the concern. Not in favor at this time. There are no benefits of limiting our candidate pool. The suggested changes don’t correlate with an increase of candidates.
BoD: 9/10 opposed (90%)
CHANGE #3
ARTICLE VI
COMPETITIVE GROUPS
Section 6.01 RESPONSIBILITIES. Each Competitive Group shall have a Coordinator that shall
(i) coordinate and implement the competition of its assigned Competitive Group with the relevant USA Rugby or NATIONAL COLLEGE RUGBY Competitive Region governing body, and, as necessary, USA Rugby or NATIONAL COLLEGE RUGBY directly.
(ii) (ii) foster the interests of clubs within the Competitive Group to the relevant USA Rugby or NATIONAL COLLEGE RUGBY Competitive Region governing body;
(iii) (iii) represent the Completive Group as a whole on before the relevant USA Rugby or NATIONAL COLLEGE RUGBY Competitive Region governing body;
(iv) (iv) attend the AGM each year and report on the progress of the Competitive Group and any developments with respect to the relevant USA Rugby or NATIONAL COLLEGE RUGBY Competitive Region governing body
(v) (v) fulfill such other obligations as the Board may determine is consistent with then current guidelines of the relevant USA Rugby or NATIONAL COLLEGE RUGBY Competitive Region governing body. The Coordinator(s) of each Competitive Group shall also report to the Executive Committee no later than then 2 months prior to the start of the competitive season date of each AGM in regards to competition structure of its Competitive Group.
Member: NCR needed to be added to this section. It was an oversite when we last did revisions. Section 6.01v as it is writing means competition coordinators need to let the BOD know the schedule by the AUG/SEPT AGM. This is too late. Teams need time to secure pitches and plan. Prior to Covid, the MAC schedule was completed by the end of June, approved by the MAC committee, and sent to the GU’s in July. True, there will be some late issues, and changes can be made, but the plan needs to be in place. To be sure… 6.01 and all its subsections allude to the fact that it is the job of the competition coordinators to set the schedule. Individual schools/clubs can schedule their own “friendlies” but the Divisional Schedule and playoffs are the jobs of coordinators.
ExCo: There are two separate things going on here. The first is adding National Collegiate Rugby (note that the proposal says “College” but it would actually be “Collegiate”) to the competitive groups and the second is the change to Section (v). Adding in NCR makes sense, we clearly want to include our Women’s Collegiate teams in anything we are doing, but input from Scott would confirm to make sure we are not overlooking something. It is unclear what the change in Section (v) is meant to accomplish? The latest schedule to come out this year was D3M which was sent on July 14 and even that was delayed by circumstances outside of the coordinators control such as the lengthy discussion about teams moving up to D2 or down to D4 (and the creation of an EPRU D4). Is the suggestion that this be formalized instead of just being something that happens anyway? In favor of these changes with more clarification and input from Scott, as they are mostly just cleaning up what we already do.
BoD: 3/10 opposed (30%)
CHANGE #4
Section 6.02 ELECTION. At least one Coordinator for each Competitive Group shall be elected by a majority of votes cast by the Officers of the Board of Directors. Each Coordinator shall be elected from a slate of candidates that are Officers, Directors or Participants of Members in good standing. Such candidates shall be selected by the Nominating Committee or in any other manner determined by the Board that is permitted or required by the then current guidelines of the relevant USA Rugby Competitive Region governing body. Coordinators may not be current members of the Board of Directors and therefor have no voting rights on the board.
Member: I believe in the separation of the competition from the business side of the sport. Coordinators need to operator separate from the BOD. Mixing decision making on competition with allocation of funds can, will and has been a conflict of interest. We also need to follow the rules set down by USA Rugby and elect our coordinators by vote, not by appointment. I believe this should also be done by the BOD as a whole and NOT just the exec committee as stated in the current by-laws. We must inform our members of the need for competition coordinators. We have major issues with the one’s we have now. Some of them need to be replaced. (Only one coordinator actually helped with the EPRU Championship). We also need to define who is planning the Lentz Cup and this needs to be part of the coordinators job, not the Board of Directors
ExCo: This change is akin to asking Scott and Ray directly to step down. This would limit our ability to put people in positions they may be suited for. For the conflict-of-interest argument, our coordinators and EPRU board members already come from EPRU Clubs so the potential conflict already exists. There is no proof of additional conflict just because someone serves both roles. Not in favor.
BoD: 9/10 opposed (90%)
CHANGE #5
ARTICLE IV BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 4.01 POWERS AND DUTIES. The Board shall have full power and authority to control and manage the affairs and property of the Union in accordance with applicable law and with the purposes and limitations set forth in these By-Laws. Without limiting the generality of the powers and authority set forth in the foregoing sentence, further specific powers and responsibilities of the Board include, without limitation:
(a) Powers:
i. To establish and oversee the activities of the Executive Committee, Nominating Committee, Disciplinary Committee, any other standing and ad hoc committees of the Board, and any advisory groups of the Union;
ii. To have full authority with respect to the distribution and payment of monies received by the Union from time to time;
iii. To obligate or otherwise bind the Union to any legally enforceable contract; iv. To hire and fire employees; and
v. To take any other action which is permitted under applicable laws, including the ability to delegate any of these powers or authorities to the Officers of the Union and/or standing and ad hoc committees of the Board.
(b) Duties:
i. Shall attend the Annual General Meeting
ii. Shall attend majority of Board of Directors meetings
iii. Shall serve on a standing or ad hoc committee
iv. Shall at all times in meetings of the Board of Directors represent the best interests of the EPRU as a whole regardless of Club affiliation
v. Shall disclose to the Board of Directors any rugby related disciplinary, professional, or legal history that could jeopardize the reputation, business, or financial status of the Union
vi. Shall disclose memberships in organization both rugby and non-rugby related which may cause a conflict of interest to the Union
Failure to fulfill the duties could result in “for cause” removal from the Board, as outlined in Section 4.05.
Member: My disgust for Section4.01.b.vi was made clear when this was added. I have shown this to lawyers and other officers of unions and every one of them felt the by-law was overreaching and intrusive. It is too broadly defined and could allow board members to dig into personal lives, medical histories, and legal affairs not pertinent to our business. As it is written, I would have to disclose any rugby cards I got, my professional file and every one of my traffic tickets, DUI, and… marital issues that involved legal advice. It is not defined what “jeopardize the reputation, business, or financial status of the Union” as it is written, any member of the board could randomly decide. I added Section 4.01.b.vi because since becoming a member, “conflict of interest” has been one of our biggest problems. It has been painfully evident on numerous occasions that our members do not put the needs of the EPRU first. I personally struggle with this as a member of the EPRRS and take great measures to distance myself from any discussion or vote that involves money. What constitutes a conflict of interest needs to be reviewed by the BOD.
ExCo: Regarding section (v): We held a special interim AGM in February of 2021 and where a quorum was established and that this section passed with 100% approval. Regarding section (vi): Micalah is putting together some sample forms. Not in favor of the two proposed changes juxtaposed together. The conflict-of-interest form being created does not target deeply personal conflicts of interest. Members of the board should disclose other boards/affiliations they are a part of if the affiliation is in direct conflict with EPRU. As for section (v), it protects our members and it protects us as Board members.
BoD: 9/10 opposed (90%)
CHANGE #6
Section 4.03 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS.
(a) Each class of the Board of Directors shall be elected from a slate of candidates presented by the Nominating Committee of the Board of Directors at the relevant AGM. Each class will be comprised of the positions vacated by those Directors whose terms are expiring (the “Open Board Seats”). Nominees are required to be members of the Union that are in good standing with their Member team, the Union, and USA Rugby or National Collegiate Rugby. Member clubs shall have no more then one member sitting on the Board of Directors at any given time.
Member: [Note: The member who brought forward this prospective change claims that it is Dave Codell’s idea. Dave Codell expressly denies this and is not in favor.] Prior to Covid and during another administration it became evident clubs were attempting to load the board. We could have potentially had 3 members from the same club sitting on the BOD. We have and have had multiple members of the same club sitting on the Executive Board. When you combine multiple club members on the BOD there is imbalance of power.
ExCo: This amendment asks the entire ExCo to resign (club affiliations below). There is an indication that this issue arose in 2019 or earlier, however during the amendment of the bylaws in February of 2021 this was not proposed.
We currently have 11 Board members, and the majority would be impacted by this.
1. Lindsay Watson – Brandywine
2. Micalah Morrison – Brandywine
3. Ryan McHugh – Schuylkill
4. Liz Malazita – Schuylkill/Referee Society
5. Dave Codell – formerly Schuylkill, currently Gryphons
6. Ray Fritz – Gryphons
7. Scott Stratton – Harrisburg
8. Jenn Stratton– Harrisburg
9. Bryan Dewease – formerly Harrisburg , currently Roses
10. Becca Sliver – Philly
11. Doc Zimmerman– Jersey Shore
This is almost everyone. Hence why, prior to the AGM, it is disclosed who is on the Board, so decisions can be made intelligently and transparently. Not in favor.
BoD: 9/10 opposed (90%)
CHANGE #7
Section 5.08 POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE OFFICERS
d) Treasurer. The Treasurer shall collect, account for, budget and administer the funds of the Union. The Treasurer shall maintain the financial records of the Union, assure their transparency to the membership in a manor fit to the Board of Directors, and give these records to her their successor in good order.
Member: I just changed a little wording, but I believe we need a statement and ACTION to make sure our finances are transparent. All of our members need access to our budget. It should be posted on our website.
ExCo: Now that we have better control over the website (the blog function can be used to pass this kind of information to our members even if the plug-in makes it difficult to attach directly like it was done once previously). There is not an issue with the budget being posted on the site (similarly but not related to this proposed change – meeting notes can be posted like they were for July). The “ACTION” referenced in the reasoning needs more explanation. In favor of this change.
BoD: 2/10 opposed (20%)
Given the reasons above the ExCo is in favor of changes 3 and 7 but opposed to changes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6. The Board of Directors as a whole is in concurrence with the Executive Committee.
