Ian Edwards has been appointed President of Birmingham & Solihull RFC, taking over the role from Rona Higgins, who steps down after two and a half years in the position.

Ian takes on the Presidency having been involved with the club since 2007, during which time he has made a significant contribution across a number of areas. His involvement includes coaching within the Mini & Junior section and serving as Chair of the M&Js, and he brings with him a strong understanding of the club’s values and community. Upon taking on the role, he shared a few words:

“I am delighted to be President of such a fantastic club.
When Rona asked if I would consider taking on the role, I was very humbled.
I joined the club in around 2007 when Lewis started playing mini rugby here.
I carried on through the M&J’s coaching up until my team became adults (well, some of them).
I was also Chair of the M&J’s for a number of years.
I think we all agree Rona has done a fantastic job, and we are sad to see her stand down. If I can do half as well as Rona, I will be pleased!
I look forward to the role and seeing you all at the club.”

With the passing of the torch, we would like to share our thanks to Rona for her leadership, dedication, and commitment during her time as President. Having been associated with Birmingham & Solihull RFC for 24 years, Rona’s contribution spans a wide range of roles and has played an important part in the continued development of the club. She leaves the Presidency having helped reunite the history of the club to the present day with the return of President’s Day the last 2 seasons, championing for an accessible WC and continuing her with the dirt-trackers. Rona has also shared a few words:

“A change in Presidency
In life, changes come along on a regular basis. A wonderful change in my life, is the arrival of Skye, my beautiful granddaughter.
As she lives in Cornwall and knowing I’d want to be visiting regularly, I knew I couldn’t commit the time to the Bees Presidency, as I have done over the last 2 and a half years and that the role deserves.
Being associated with the club, in many roles for 24 years, it was a great honour when I was asked to become President of the Bees.
I want to thank all of you for your support, in whatever way it was given. I’d especially like to thank the Management Committee, who went along with my ideas, which generally involved toilets!
I am delighted to be handing over the Presidency to Ian Edwards, who has been a constant and dedicated contributor to club, over many years. I know the Presidency will be in excellent hands and I hope Ian enjoys the role as much as I have and wish him every success in the future.
Many thanks to you all.
Rona
COYB”

Birmingham & Solihull RFC would like to once again thank Rona for her service to the club and wish her and her family every happiness for the future, and look forward to the tenure of Ian Edwards as he begins his term as President.