By DAVID NAGEL
NEW West Gippsland Cricket Association (WGCA) President, Brett Armitage, has faced many challenges in his cricket career head-on and bringing a new level of professionalism to the association is one he will tackle with the same amount of gusto.
“Non-negotiable will be that we are cohesive, we work together and we are accountable,” Armitage said. “We will make decisions for the good of the association and the good of the players.”
Armitage has built a fine on-field record over the years and that understanding, combined with business acumen that includes a Diploma in Management, sees him perfectly placed to lead the WGCA into a bold and brave new era.
The perception, right or wrong, is that the WGCA has been disconnected from its clubs in recent years and it’s a perception that Armitage is keen for the association to leave behind.
“The board has promised to develop closer links with clubs and ramp up consultation,” he said.
“An us versus them mentality, through the clubs, doesn’t assist the WGCA moving forward and developing and progressing as a body.
“There’s a difference between power and authority. We have the authority but we’re not going to bludgeon clubs with it. We’ll listen to the clubs, oversee their ideas but hold them accountable … communication and accountability is key to getting this right.”
Armitage has an experienced man by his side with WGCA Life Member and former long serving secretary, Rob Hansen, being elected General Manager/Secretary. The pair will be researching successful strategies used in neighbouring cricket associations.
New WGCA Board of Management:
Brett Armitage – President.
Rob Hansen – General Manager/Secretary.
Lisa Glenn – Vice President.
John O’Brien – Treasurer.
Jacquie Morris – Fixture Coordinator.
Jeff Stephanitsch – Junior Coordinator.
Steve Johnson – Senior Cricket Coordinator.
