Bays too good!
The Bays came to play at House Brothers Oval on Saturday and after a great tussle were ahead by 15 points at the final siren.  Our lads put in a solid effort but in the end Glenelg were just a bit cleaner and stronger in close, which on a wet slippery day proved decisive.

I am sure Rick and the boys will take the loss hard and look to bounce back against an improving Eagles outfit this week at Thebby.

Our Reserves, U19’s and U17s continued to win games, face a test this week against the Eagles, who have strong teams across all grades.

Andrew Whiteman 150th
Whitey will play his 150th game this week against the Eagles at Thebby. You can only but admire the way Whitey goes about his football, he is as tough a competitor as you are likely to see on a football field.  Whitey is now part of the leadership group and sets a super example both on the field but also off the field in his preparation for each game.  Congratulations Whitey and all the best for Saturday.

City of Unley negotiations
As you would be aware we are currently negotiating the terms for all out agreements with the City of Unley.  These agreements include the hire of House Brothers Oval for training and matches, as well as our lease for 39 Oxford Terrace Unley.  It looks as though this could be a lengthy process as the City of Unley undergoes a Strategic Building review at the present time.  I will keep you posted as we work through the issues with the City of Unley.

U17 Country Champions
As you may have heard our U17 Country team won the Division 1 competition last week.  The team was made up of talented youngsters from our zone, both in the Hills and River Murray areas.  The team was coached by David Greenslade and Ray Billings.  I have no doubt that this positive result is a direct result of the “Player Pathway” programs run in both the Hills and River Murray of which both David and Ray are involved – congratulations to all involved.

Receptionist / PA Position
You may have noticed an advertisement for a Receptionist / PA at the Club.  We received over 100 applications and have commenced interviews for the position.  I would expect an appointment to be made within the next week.

Wine Auction
The Clubs major fundraising is now only a few weeks away and with tables filling fast be sure to ring Bianca at the Club on 8271 4611  to secure your table.  Thank you to Ryan Scott and his committee for the work going into ensuring that the event is a success and a big thank you to those that have donated wine and other items to the event.

Membership
We are currently sitting at 2370 members for the year – only 130 to go to reach our target of 2500 members.  Let’s all encourage those supporters that have not renewed or joined for 2008 and surpass the 2,500 mark for the season.

Go you Blues!

Stuart Totham
CEO


27/03/08

HERE WE GO!
The start of a new football season is always an exciting time, this season is no different. I am sure we are all looking forward to seeing out teams in action tonight. Our players have been well prepared, shown good trial game form and it all points to what should be an exciting opening round.

I hope to see all of you at Norwood Oval supporting Rick and the boys.

Tim Weatherald
As you would all be aware Tim has decided to retire from SANFL Football. Tim has been a great player and ambassador for the Club over the past 14 seasons. The Club will be recognizing Tim’s service at an appropriate time.

Staff Changes
Huntley Armstrong commences as our Sales and Marketing Manager in April, replacing Sam Harrold who is heading off overseas. Best of luck to Huntley in the new job and to Sam and Stella on their great adventure.

Lyndall Carpenter, our longest serving staff member is also leaving the Club. Lyndall has been a great employee and will be sadly missed by many of our Members and supporters. Best of luck Lyndall with our new role and I am sure we will see you at the Club from time to time.

We also welcome aboard Karly Vivian as a trainee in our finance department.

Membership
We currently have 2050 members this is more than last year but still short of our target of 2,500. Thank you to those that have renewed and if you have a mate or family member that is always “gunna” join, keep onto them and get them on Board for the ride in 08.

# We have experienced some delays in getting Membership packs distributed – thank you for your patience.

Player Auction
We still have some bargains available in our player auction – please refer to the website for further details. The pool of money to be distributed looks bigger than ever, so log on to sturtfc.com.au, check out what’s available and call Lyndall on 8271 4611 to make your bid today!

Wine Auction
This year’s major Club function will be held at the National Wine Centre on Friday May 24th, hosted by Julian Burton. It promises to be a superb evening with wine bargains to be had as well as other major auction items. Please look out for further details shortly.

Shout Loud Be Double Blue Proud!

Stuart Totham
CEO