Wednesday's Ruck & Maul on Thursday!

                             DISCOVERY SPORTS CLUB


Over the past year or more, we have discussed the DSC Clubhouse's financial and operational challenges. To address these issues, the DSC Executive, composed of CW Rugby and Castaways Soccer members, has been working diligently to revitalize the Clubhouse.  We hope that this letter will provide an update on all that we’ve already accomplished, what we are currently working on, and what challenges still exist.

Past Efforts

We want to quickly acknowledge the significant contributions of our dedicated Rugby and Soccer members who have tirelessly worked to keep the Clubhouse thriving. Over the many years of the clubhouse’s existence, their volunteer hours, stress, and worry have been considerable. We are truly grateful for their efforts and are committed to honoring their legacy.

Current Goals

While we have made progress, the Clubhouse still faces challenges. However, we are optimistic about its future and believe that with continued effort, we can overcome these obstacles. To achieve this, we have set the following goals:

Improve Governance: We are committed to strengthening the governance of the DSC through clearly defined roles and procedures outlined in our bylaws and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This will ensure that the Clubhouse is managed effectively and transparently.
Develop Longer-Term Plans: We are developing a comprehensive plan for the long-term sustainability of the Clubhouse. This plan will include financial projections, operational strategies, and fundraising initiatives.
Increase Membership: We are working to find new ways to increase our membership and attract new members, while retaining existing members. This will help to increase revenue and ensure the Clubhouse's continued viability.
Enhance Facilities: We are exploring opportunities to upgrade and improve the Clubhouse facilities. This will make the Clubhouse a more welcoming environment, making it more attractive to members and the community.
Strengthen Community Partnerships: We are building stronger relationships with local businesses, organizations, and community groups. These partnerships will provide additional support and resources for the Clubhouse.
Successes

Financial Support: We have received generous donations and secured a loan to address urgent financial needs, such as replacing the furnace and water heater. A recent donation enabled us to update the cash register, making it easier for customers to pay with cards instead of cash. This has noticeably helped the bottom line. Additionally, we have been able to cover one year of property taxes, approximately $20,000, thanks to the early payment of dues by clubs.
Community Support: Local businesses have been instrumental in supporting the Clubhouse. Please do what you can to promote and support these generous local businesses.
Yorkshire Landscaping has generously donated a half day of work on a regular schedule to maintain the yard and bushes. 

Ryan Vending has donated a new credit card/coin operated vending machine, with all profits going directly to the Clubhouse. 

Pacific Painting Brothers has provided time and materials to paint two of the upstairs offices, increasing our potential for new rentals. 

Good Grade Plumbing is completing the heat pump and hot water tank installation by generously providing volunteer time of a CW dad, saving the Clubhouse significant expenses.  
Maintenance: Finding a small budget in the DSC finances, we were able to begin much-needed work to repair, sand, and paint the front stairs/porch at DSC. This work is ongoing, thanks to the volunteer hours of Soccer and Rugby members who put in extra hours after their regular day jobs. Their dedication is truly inspiring.
Clubhouse Operations: Our hard-working bar managers have brought in many new summer bookings, including the innovative rental of the outside back parking area for night parties. This has helped to increase revenue and lighten the burden on our volunteer staff. Our new bar staff have also been instrumental in supporting the Clubhouse. They have helped to lighten the burden on our volunteer staff and have brought in new business. We are always looking for new bar staff to join our team. We invite you to consider the Clubhouse for your next event. Whether you're planning a birthday party, a corporate gathering, or a casual get-together, we offer a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Our spacious venue is ideal for a variety of occasions.
Reinforced Viability: The reinvigorated DSC board has demonstrated the Clubhouse's viability through sustained efforts and positive achievements. This success bodes well for the Clubhouse's future as we continue to seek new opportunities and strive for further growth.
Challenges

Office Space Rentals: We have been actively marketing the office space upstairs but have only secured one new tenant in the past year. This is a missed opportunity to generate significant revenue for the Clubhouse. Given the low rental fee, it's surprising that more businesses haven't taken advantage of this affordable and convenient workspace. We are determined to continue our efforts to attract new tenants and maximize the potential of our available space.
Neighborhood Challenges: The current state of the neighborhood poses additional challenges for the Clubhouse. We frequently deal with homelessness and garbage, which can create safety concerns and deter potential visitors. We are working with the City of Victoria to address these issues and ensure the safety and well-being of our members and visitors. We are hopeful that the upcoming construction projects will help to revitalize the neighborhood and make it a more desirable place to live and visit.
Navigating the Future: Despite our recent successes, the Clubhouse still faces significant challenges that could hinder its long-term viability. While we have been able to maintain our momentum, there is a risk of volunteer burnout and financial difficulties. These challenges are compounded by the ongoing construction projects in the surrounding area, which may present both opportunities and obstacles for the Clubhouse's future.

Moving Forward

To ensure the Clubhouse's long-term viability, we need your continued support. Please consider the following:

Community Involvement: Use the Clubhouse for events and spread the word about its offerings. Volunteer your time to projects, such as maintaining the grounds, helping with events, or working the bar. If you have specific skills or expertise, consider lending your talents to the Clubhouse. Your contributions are invaluable and make a significant difference. Contact for DSC is [email protected]

Neighborhood Development: We are actively pursuing opportunities to partner with the construction company coordinating the BC Housing building project next door. Our goal is to secure office space rentals for their workers, which would provide a significant boost to our revenue and help to ensure the Clubhouse's long-term sustainability. We are excited about the potential benefits that this project could bring to the Clubhouse and the community.
Financial Contributions: Donations are welcome and greatly appreciated. Your generosity will help us to continue providing essential services and maintain our facilities.

AGM Reminder

Please join us at the upcoming AGM to learn more about our plans and how you can get involved. It is scheduled for 6:30pm at the Clubhouse on October 23rd. Look out for the agenda and reminder on October 9th.

Rugby and Soccer seasons are taking off again over the coming weeks, we all hope to see you at the pitch and post games at the DSC Clubhouse.

On behalf of the DSC Executive,

Tom Earles, President [email protected] 2365625663

Brent Johnston, Vice President [email protected] 2502179472

DSC Board Members: Riley Ilnicki; Kelsey McKinnon; John Wolfe; Gord Kehoe; Julia Morgan; Jena Croft; Brea Garnett; Deanna Carlson; Alex Rodriguez; Briar Poulin; Bella Colantonio.



                                               KAMLOOPS YOUTH SEVENS

This coming weekend will see some 140 CW players and almost thirty parents hit the road for the Annual Kamloops Tournament.  This has become an iconic event and an almost "must" to start the age grade seasoon. We wish for safe travels, good rugby and fun to all the participants and volunteers.


                   SUBLIME ENTERTAINMENT

The Ruggernut dips the cap to players on the Japan and Samoan National teams for their display of rugby in last weeend's Pacific Nations Cup semifinal.  There were 76 points scored as both teams committed to running rugby and an old coach's mantra, "let the ball do the work" and, "your job is not over until the player you passed to has passed the ball"!  The support by forwards and backs and the speed and accuracy of transfer was a credit to both squads.  Given this action, there was virtually no need for TMO reviews and apart from hydration breaks, the game flowed delightfully. Japan will face Fiji in what also promises to be lip-wetting final!  Unfortuantely, you will need to scope your guide as we have no television announcement.