Ulster Rugby Annual Report 2015 - 2016

commitment and hard work of the Treasurer, Finance and Commercial & Marketing Committees and the Management and staff. The Ulster Branch is very appreciative of all their efforts. However, the financial challenges that lie ahead are significant. Clear evidence is already being seen of increased player costs in the professional game due to the additional TV revenue gained by English and French clubs, which they are using to attract and secure players. To be able to compete effectively in Europe, Ulster will have to meet these increases and look to further develop the depth in our squad. Whilst commercial income in terms of gate receipts and sponsorship income has been successfully grown over the last few years, the scope for further growth is more limited as match attendance is already high and we are currently in a number of 3-4 year sponsorship deals. It must be remembered that gate receipts and commercial income are closely linked to success on the pitch. The Management Committee is currently investigating what we can do to meet the additional costs and also actively engaging with the IRFU on ways to ensure that the Ulster team stays competitive by having the necessary resources to compete with the challenges being faced. The Management Committee has also developed a more comprehensive risk register with all activity areas within Ulster Rugby being required to identify and review risks and then initiate actions to avoid, manage or mitigate those identified. These risk registers are being regularly assessed and updated and are proving to be a useful tool in ensuring the continued success and development within Ulster Rugby.

KINGSPAN STADIUM DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING FACILITIES Whilst the main works on the stadium and training facilities were completed last season, there has been plenty to keep the Development Committee, chaired by Cecil Watson, busy. Some outstanding work, minor enhancements and rectifications work has taken quite a bit of time to complete and resolve. It is also clear that there will need to be a 10 year investment plan for the stadium to ensure that it is properly maintained and that the quality of the facilities are kept at a high standard. A highlight of the year was the official opening of the Nevin Spence Centre on the 27th August 2015 by the DCAL Minister Carál Ní Chuilín. It was also very fitting that Nevin’s mother Essie and sisters Emma and Laura were present for the opening. The centre is an impressive education and heritage centre which contains interactive and audio-visual content which will enable visitors to explore the history of rugby in Ulster and the benefits that the game has for supporters, players and society in general. It will also provide a dynamic stimulus for learning in alignment with the school curriculum and Ulster Rugby’s existing grassroots’ programmes. The Nevin Spence Centre is complimented by the Innovation Lab and the Digital Skills Centre which are located in the press box area. These allow groups of school children to look at and learn about multi-media and broadcast design and production. The technology and facilities are in line with the Science and Technology learning requirements of key stages 2 and 3 of the school curriculum. By the end of April 2016, the centre has had nearly 7000 visitors through its doors.

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