As another season for CJIHC draws to a close, I have been asked for my thoughts on the season overall and where we go from here.

My immediate feeling is one of immense frustration. CJIHC officers have held a number of discussions with the Devils management with a view to implementing the wishes of parents that CJIHC should merge with the Devils Community Foundation (DCF). A proposal has been on the table for months waiting for the Devils to sign. Despite CJIHC agreeing to wait until after the end of the Elite League season to conclude matters, at the time of writing we are still waiting for the Devils to get back to us. Hopefully this will be concluded one way or another sooner rather than later as time is short to prepare for the new hockey year on 1st August.

I am delighted that all our teams have fulfilled their commitments with energy and enthusiasm throughout the season and have been a credit to the club. My thanks go especially to the managers and coaches of each team and other committee members who undertake an enormous amount of work behind the scenes to enable our children to enjoy the sport. The involvement of Brent Pope and various Cardiff Devils players in assisting the team coaches in training sessions has, I'm sure, been welcomed by all this season.

It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the enormous contribution made by Paul, Mandy and Dave Oliver towards ensuring the survival of CJIHC during very difficult times. I have nothing but admiration for their expertise and commitment. It is these guys who ensure that the club operates correctly within the law and ensure that we do not fall foul of EIHA regulations. These are the guys who give up their weekends to travel the country to attend EIHA and Conference meetings on our behalf to ensure that Cardiff is well represented. They have also ensured that the club remains financially viable, which is no mean task, considering significant increases in ice rental, referee expenses and transport costs. Their commitment has been remarkable particularly bearing in mind that for much of the season, Mandy has been carrying out her duties from London and Dave from Johannesburg. Paul has been covering for both of them locally in addition to his Director of Coaching duties.

The next twelve months is a time of uncertainty that we must continue to manage carefully. Hopefully, the merger with the DCF will proceed without much further delay. The licence to operate the Cardiff Ice Rink is going out to tender soon. The EIHA are considering proposed changes to the upper age groups. Whatever happens, CJIHC will ensure that teams continue to play successfully out of Cardiff next season.

Once the Devils decide what they want to do, officials can be put in place to manage the juniors going forward.

Lastly, thanks to all the players who have represented CJIHC this season and the parents who have made such a commitment in terms of their time, and financially, to ensure that their children can enjoy this great sport.

Best wishes for an enjoyable and successful 2009/10 on and off the ice.

Dave Newton
Interim Chairman
CJIHC