The Ontario Jesters Club
Minutes of 2018 Annual General Meeting
Held 6:00PM, Wednesday, November 28 at the Toronto Cricket and Skating Club.
Chairman
Bert Keene
Secretary
Tony Altilia
The chairman declared a quorum was present and the meeting was formally called to order.
Minutes of the AGM meeting held December 13th, 2017
It was resolved that the reading of the minutes of the meeting be dispensed with. The motion was proposed by Tony Lafleur, seconded by Rea Godbold and received unanimous approval.
Financial Report
Bob Ferguson has assumed the role of Treasurer from Ed Bracht and in Ed’s absence reported that the finances are in good shape with $150k in reserve which includes restating the investment assets on a cost basis. The Jesters continue to allocate increasing amounts of money to the Jesters University Squash League and Junior Squash. There is room for more fundraising with the goal of increasing the reserve close to $200k.
BC Jesters
Mr. Keene welcomed John Hungerford, the incoming National Jesters Chairman and Bill Bowen and thanked them for attending our AGM.
University League
Alex Carter filed a report outlining the growth of the league. In the past 8 years the league has grown from just 8 men’s teams to a current 25 men’s and women’s teams. Squash Ontario has assumed much of the leagues administrative duties. Mr. Carter requested greater Jester presence as ambassadors at league matches to assist with enhancing the club’s exposure. Players and coaches alike are increasingly engaged with the University League.
Junior Development
Jeff Deverill filed a report showing a 40% increase in participation since 2015. The Jesters have committed $12,500 to support Junior Squash. Mr. Deverill reported that referees are now being paid a more meaningful amount and that Junior Squash is all about developing relationships to help grow the game. More clubs are employing pros specifically to enhance their junior programs. Windsor Squash and Fitness, the Ontario Racquet Club and the Granite Club were sited as three excellent examples. A request was made for Jesters to travel to White Oaks for the Ontario Junior Open in March 2019. The Jesters will be providing funds to support the year end banquet and provide for a motivational speaker.
Chairman’s Report
Mr. Keene thanked Ed Bracht for his 15 years of loyal service as Financial Treasurer to the Jesters Club of Ontario. Ed’s dedicated and detailed efforts have solidified the Club’s tremendous current financial position.
Jay Nash from London Ontario was recognized as the “Barry Grant” Jester of the Year. Jay continues to be a leader in the London squash community. His Nash Cup Pro event has grown in stature and is the only tournament in the world where the Women’s prize money exceeds the Men’s. Jay has shown his support of our University Squash League by directing donations from his event of $3000 for each of the past few years.
Election of Executive
Derek Riley recognized Mr. Keene for a job well done as Chairman and proposed the following Nominee for election to the Executive Committee for the following year:
Bert Keene, Bob Ferguson, Rea Godbold, Jay Nash, Al Hunt, Alex Carter, Jeff Deverill, Tony Altilia, Strachan Jarvis and Ian Crozier.
The motion was proposed by Mr. Riley, seconded by Mr. Nederpel, and received unanimous approval.
Meeting Termination
There being no further business to discuss, on motion duly made, it was resolved that the meeting be terminated. The resolution was proposed by Mr. Godbold, seconded by Mr. Clarke and approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:00pm.