Sadly no Croquet AGM, prize-giving and tea could take place this year. This is a really popular event in our calendar, with much of the section attending to celebrate success on the lawns and to socialise with fellow Members. But not possible in 2020. Instead the reports of the Chairman and Captain had to be read (and hopefully enjoyed!) by Members in the comfort of their own homes, and providing their own tea.
However, the content of the reports presented good news for the section: participation in the shortened summer tournament was close to normal, plus a great achievement by the Roehampton Club team to reach the final of the national Golf Croquet Interclub competition. Congratulations to Tim Russell, Harry Fisher, Mark van Loon and Dan Pearson on their efforts.
More good news was the number of new Members joining the section, we have expanded by c.35 Members and this included enthusiastic young Members, enabling the establishment of a Youth Section, which is very exciting.
The health crisis caused by the pandemic has provided croquet with the opportunity to show what a safe sport it is, perfect for social distancing and fun to play. It offers competitive play but is accessible to all and it is easy to learn the basics. Roehampton Club Members new to croquet have discovered what a great sport it is and how fantastic our lawns are thanks to the hard work of our brilliant grounds staff team.
Plans are already being developed for 2021, to cement the progress we have made in this most difficult of years, and of course we continue to welcome newcomers to croquet.