What happened at the SOA AGM?

Thank you to all of those who took time out of their Monday evening to attend the SOA Annual General Meeting. A small group but essential for our governance joined the Board to hear our chair Jonathan Molloy summarise the SOA actions in the last year and have the opportunity to raise queries about the reports contained in the AGM Booklet.

In terms of the proposals contained within the AGM Booklet the following items were supported:-

• there would be no change to current membership fees (Families £26, Seniors £12, Young Adults and Juniors £2)
• there would be no change to current levies for events registered as regional or above (£1.25 for adults and £0.50 for juniors)
• the appointment of Johnston Smillie Ltd as independent examiners of the SOA Accounts

In terms of the nominations for Director, Ken McDonald (INVOC) was re-elected to the Board having served an initial 3 year term and Neil Polwart of FVO was elected.

Tim O’Donoghue (SOLWAY) stepped down as a Director having served 6 years on the SOA Board. Jonathan Molloy took the opportunity to thank him for everything he has done to support the Board and in particular his efforts during the COVID pandemic and to improve the safety of the sport.

There remain two Board positions which have yet to be filled – nominally the Events Director and Secretary. The SOA Board meets approximately 6 times a year (4 in person and 2 online) and is supported by the SOA Staff team. It is important that all areas and clubs in the SOA are represented on the Board to ensure we the voice of all clubs and all spheres of the orienteering community are heard. Should anyone be able and willing to bring their experience to assist the governance of the sport or want to know more about please contact either Jonathan Molloy (chair@scottish-orienteering.org) or Nikki Howard (nikki@scottish-orienteering.org) to discuss your interest.

Finally but not least, Jonathan Molloy announced that the President’s Medal had been renamed the Service to Orienteering Medal as it more accurately describes the reason for the award and now the SOA does not have a President at the moment. This year the Service to Orienteering Medal was awarded to Janice Nisbit for her efforts for over 10 years as Scotland’s Veteran Home International Manager. Janice is standing down as VHI manager after this year’s event and the medal will be presented in person shortly. Well done Janice and thank you for all your work.