THERE is a changing of the guard at the Muswellbrook Heelers Rugby Union Club.
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After four years at the helm, president Tim Pike has stepped down.
At the club’s recent annual general meeting at Highbrook Park, Shane Wanstall was elected as the man to replace the popular leader.
And, Pike praised the new president.
“Shane, an employee at Drayton, has been a member of the Heelers for the past two years,” he said.
“His support on the paddock and to the running of the club made him an ideal choice for president.”
Pike will assist as vice-president while newcomer Harry Hobden takes on a similar position.
“Harry is a local and has spent his secondary schooling at the rugby proud college Shore in Sydney,” he said.
“He’s come back to assist his father Phil in the local business, Muswellbrook Steel Supplies, who have been a sponsor of the Heelers for the past couple of years.
“Mark Everingham was re-elected as treasurer.
“This will be his seventh consecutive season on the committee.
“His treasurer’s report shows the club to be in a sound financial position.”
Other members on the executive include Kurt Everingham, Pat Kirkwood, Ben Heriot and Matt Turner.
Wanstall said he was looking forward to working with the new committee.
“It will be a challenging year in 2015,” he told the Chronicle.
“And, experienced club member David Rose will be the Heelers’ representative to Newcastle Hunter Rugby Union (NHRU).
“Next season is a rebuilding period for the club.
“We’ve lost a lot of guys to retirement or have left the area due to work commitments.
“In his report, the outgoing president thanked the players and coaches for another successful year.
“The Heelers’ first grade side won the Club Championship and finished minor premiers.
“They only just missed out on winning the grand final; going down to Singleton.
“Second grade made it to the finals too.
“The club was also successful in picking up the prestigious Cecil Bourke Medal at the NHRU presentation night.
“This was won by Allan Johnstone or ‘AJ’ as he is known locally.
“All-in-all, it was a good year for the Heelers following on from 2013.”
Wanstall indicated that the coaching positions, trainers, team managers and other support roles would be advertised soon.
Anyone interested should apply as training will start early in the new year.