An open letter from the Chairs of both Regions regarding the Proposed Merger of LSERSA & SRSA Regions

Both of us (Sandy Telling and Keith Evans) along with SRSA’s previous chairman Benny Hill have discussed the pros and cons of this proposal on many different occasions since the middle of the year. It has been discussed by Snowsport England at both Board and Council level and there is general approval by them of the proposed merger, provided that the majority of clubs within both regions agree.

Below we have listed many of the questions we have heard during the past months with answers as to how we see the way forward.

But REMEMBER - it is YOU - the members of the clubs of both regions who will make the final decision – not us!!

Are we going to keep both sets of summer league alpine races?

Yes. The clubs in both regions have indicated their wish to maintain the existing alpine race format currently in place.

Will it be difficult to administer such a big region and how will we ensure that every club gets “their say” ?

Both regions have had an AGM and elected officers to act as a committee to administer the region. It is suggested that both these committees merge to ensure each set of clubs has representation on the new committee. The additional work getting the new region off the ground will need extra volunteers.

Will there be opportunities to try other disciplines within the new region?

Yes. Development of all disciplines within the region will be important to ensure the justification of additional resources from both SSE and Sport England.

What will the new region be called?

A new constitution and new name will have to be agreed by all members and by SSE.

What is the aim of a merger?

The aim is to provide improved support to the region and the clubs so that new resources are available for new clubs to develop and existing clubs to expand.

How will this be achieved?

By pooling our resources and investigating better access to funding whether through the Sports Council, sponsorship or other grant aid bodies, such as SportAid or County Sports Partnerships.

What will happen to the finances of the two regions?

The funds existing within the current regions will be ring fenced for them until such time as the clubs can agree a common strategy for the use of those funds.

Will there be more opportunities for training? (from beginners right up to the regional squad.)

Hopefully, we will be able to “pool” our resources in terms of coaches and Slope availability thus providing more of what ALL our members require.

What Next?

If we are generally agreed we will have to set a date for an EGM (provisionally 17th January at Bracknell) where full discussion can take place and ideas can be swapped. If agreement is reached, the current regional committees will be disbanded and a new regional committee formed, or both existing committees will be combined.

The benefits for our clubs will be increased membership, more people participating, better competitions and improved quality of athletes. This will result from a larger pool of volunteers, improved resources and support for all disciplines and a high quality of coaching.

A way back if it doesn't work should be a contingency!!!!!!!!!

Keith Evans (Chairman SRSA)
Sandy Telling (Chairman LSERSA)
18th December 2006