March 9, 2009
Dear Members:
I am pleased to report that despite these challenging times, Polo Canada is forging ahead with numerous new programs and initiatives to further enhance the importance of our organization; provide value to our members; and promote Polo in Canada and abroad.
We have made great strides in registering Polo Canada as a National Sport Organization (NSO) – thanks to the tremendous time and commitment of Col. James Taylor and Carol Pennycook. While there are still a number of details that need addressing, we are confident that we will receive this important designation. As you know, it requires tremendous resources to train and support a National Team. Therefore, in addition to our fundraising efforts and sponsorship opportunities, the NSO recognition will provide an additional source of funding through government grants and the like. In addition, it will add further credence to our on-going efforts to have Polo recognized as an official sport at both the Pan American Games and the Olympics. This is a very exciting initiative for the Association and the sport.
We are also continuing to review the opportunity to offer exclusive insurance options and know that once secured, it will be a valuable benefit to our members. I will keep you all posted on our progress.
Last year we were very successful with our Train the Trainer sessions; our youth programs; participation at the World Cup in Mexico, to name a few. This year, the board is committed to continue to offer similar, high calibre programs and playing opportunities that are exclusive to Polo Canada members.
Polo Canada is a truly distinctive organization. We provide Canadian context to the game of Polo; unify the many clubs across the country; provide excellent training and playing opportunities for players of all ages as well as umpires and coaches; and offer unique networking opportunities both here and abroad.
Shortly, you will receive your membership renewal and I encourage you, despite these poor economic times, to continue to support of this vital organization. Your membership allows us to continue to provide valuable initiatives and programs and demonstrates your commitment to the sport and allows us to be truly national. In addition to your membership, Polo Canada offers select opportunities for sponsorship and promotion – more on this to follow!
Last but not least, in our effort to provide members with even greater support and to help move the organization to the next level, I am pleased to announce that we have contracted the services of Base Consulting and Management Inc., a professional association management company located in Toronto, to serve as our Head Office. Utilizing a team approach, Base professionals combine expertise in all aspects of association management, consultancy and conference/event planning. They are highly respected professionals in their industry and bring years of experience and solid results.
Cindy Gareau will lead the team and serve as the Managing Director. Cindy has extensive knowledge of association management, working in the field since 1992. In addition to managing associations, she is an event and tradeshow planner having served as Director of Event Management for the International Facility Management Association in Houston, Texas for several years – overseeing large city wide conferences throughout the United States, as well as a multiple regional and international events and seminars. Heather Chernofsky will also be working with Polo Canada providing administrative support and management. In addition, Base has an accounting department who will also offer their assistance and expertise.
Over the next few months, with the board’s support, the office will focus on structuring the management side of the Association and begin to set the groundwork for improved communications and marketing opportunities. This is a great step forward and we look forward to a successful partnership.
Please note that effectively immediately, the new office contact information is:
Polo Canada
250 Consumers Road, Suite 301
Toronto, ON M2J 4V6
Tel: 416-494-0724
Toll Free (North America Only): 1-888-494-0724
Fax: 416-495-8723
Email: info@polocanada.ca
Once again, thank you for your tremendous support of Polo Canada and the sport in general.
Justin Fogarty
President
Polo Canada