Cardiff Rugby Board Meeting Summary – January 18, 2022

Following the appointment of David Allen as a supporters' advisor to the Cardiff Rugby board, it has been agreed that a brief summary of the meetings will be published to increase transparency and communication with supporters.

Cardiff Rugby Board Meeting Summary – January 18, 2022

The previous minutes were approved and actions discussed.

Dai Young delivered a retention and recruitment presentation with an overview of the season to date.

Dai stated that we should always be aiming for top six in URC and Champions Cup qualification

Richard Holland’s Executive Summary:

• The rugby department’s repatriation from South Africa, Welsh Govt/UK Govt support
• URC’s re-scheduling plans for postponed fixtures – Lions and Stormers (away) and Scarlets (home)
• The ‘misfits’ Champions Cup performances against Toulouse and Harlequins
• Cardiff Rugby’s current position in the Champions Cup table having fulfilled fixtures in comparison to teams awarded 2 points when unable to fulfil fixtures. Communication sent to EPCR seeking clarity on decisions and suggesting compromises
• The alignment of Cardiff Rugby and Cardiff RFC proving to be a successful development tool
• Cardiff Arms Park lease – 3-year extension agreed between CAC and Cardiff Rugby, short term extension required whilst 3 year agreement is drafted
• Pentwyn elite performance facility and health & fitness centre – current position and timescales presented
• Intention to set up joint sub-committee to plan for 150^th season of Cardiff rugby

Nadine Griffiths’ Foundation Summary:

• Commercial and staffing updates
• Nadine expressed willingness to work with supporter organisations on community projects
• The WRU's current plans for Women’s and Girl’s Rugby
• The Community Foundation and Benevolent Trust merger
• Community engagement and delivery

Rhys Blumberg’s COO’s Summary:

• Commercial and staffing updates
• Ticket and hospitality reimbursements following postponed and behind closed doors fixtures, including Cardiff RFC
• Ticket and hospitality future pricing
• Media value of fulfilling Toulouse and Harlequins fixtures
• The completion of a data capture initiative initiated by the professional teams and Two Circles, and in collaboration with the WRU, has seen a significant increase in opted in contacts. A plan is now being implemented to ‘on-board’ these potential customers.
• In response to supporter feedback, opportunities to wear best-selling blue and black kit over remaining games will be explored
• EHO Inspection – 5* rating

Neil Bryan’s Finance Summary:

• 2021-22 quarter 2 (for the 6 months ended 31^st December 2021) profit and loss, balance sheet and cashflow
• Planning for the return of crowds from Leinster onwards (29^th January)
• Claims submitted to Welsh Government for behind closed doors fixtures

Martyn Ryan gave an overview of the latest position regarding the loan agreement between the Welsh Government and the WRU.

Alun Jones gave an overview of the PRB’s current agenda points.