Little did I know when accepting the position of Chairman at the 2019 AGM that the world would change!
Indeed, as I enter my 3rd Term of Office, I have yet to experience the wonderful occasion of the Annual Dinner where I could delight in recognising the yearly achievements of all our Match Officials.
Although the pandemic is not fully under control, as a committee we now feel more safe and secure to recommence face to face monthly meetings and I am eagerly awaiting our first meeting of the new season which will be held at York Hospital Club on Thursday 2nd September 2021.
Given what has happened over the past 18 months, it has been difficult to motivate and inspire colleagues. Some will have found other interests and hobbies and others will have simply moved on in their personal circumstances.
However, at York RA we have a dedicated Team of Officials who have maintained a high level of interest over these difficult times and as a committee, we are keen to bring back good times.
We pride ourselves on being able to encourage top quality guest speakers to our meetings and we are always seeking out ways to entertain, educate and put together a meeting content which will aide the development of all Match Officials/Mentors/Observers and others interested in Refereeing.
I am confident that as we move forward and the new season evolves, enthusiasm for Football at local level will rise back up and our game will see many of you regain the enjoyment of Refereeing and get back on the progression ladder, in hope of achieving your full potential.
We here at York RA are committed to helping each one of you derive much enjoyment from your games and our meetings are designed to build on the superb work of the NRCFA but doing so in a relaxed, informal and enjoyable setting.
It is my hope, as we get back to all things normal, that we can build up our membership for the benefit of our membership where all will be welcome, particularly our Junior Referees and their parents.
So, as I enter my 3rd term, looking forward to the dinner next year, can I encourage you to come along to our meetings, enjoy yourselves and learn a little along the way.
I wish you all a successful Season and I look forward to meeting you and sharing your company in due course.
Best Wishes.
Alan
Alan Kaye, Chairman
York Referees’Association