Area Report-Cape Breton Highland Region

Sandy Kearney

May 2006

Another successful season has come to an end in the Cape Breton Highland Region.  Although attendance was low at our annual spring meeting, there were lots of positive experiences shared.

I would like to start by congratulating four of our local officials who took part in a provincial tournament this year.  Doug MacDougall, Bill Burns, Steve MacGillivray, and Mary Alice Butts all reported positive experiences at various sites.  Three of the four officials received the final game which reflects well on our area.

This year was also the first year we have awarded three scholarships on behalf of our local area.  Two grade 12 players have been awarded a $200.00 bursary and one grade 12 official will soon be granted a $200.00 bursary as well.  These awards will be handed out on a yearly basis at the winner’s graduation ceremonies. 

A major task as area supervisor is dealing with discipline issues.  This year our area experienced four separate incidences which resulted in suspensions.  Two coaches received two game suspensions, one coach received a three game suspension, and one player received a one year suspension.  Abuse from fans is also becoming an issue in our area and will be addressed at the spring meeting.

Our numbers continue to be low which has been addressed at the annual meeting.  New officials need to be attracted to our organization and better development will be put in effect next year.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our local executive:

Senior assignor-Jimmy Martin

Senior treasurer-Gary Burke

Junior assignor/treasurer-S. Kearney (this position is available next season)

Finally, I would like to congratulate Doug MacDougall who will be taking over as Area Supervisor.  This process will be done over the 2006-07 season with taking completely taking over the following season.

Respectfully submitted,

Sandy Kearney