WITH THE October by-elections fast approaching, Sport caught up with last year’s IMG chair, Andy Button-Stephens, to find out exactly how he spent his year and what the job involves for those thinking of putting themselves forward.
gair rhydd: So, what exactly does your job as IMG Chair entail?
Andy: Basically it was my role to co-ordinate all aspects of the IMG, both netball and football, initially organising captains’ meetings to make sure all the players were happy. The fundamental responsibilities are generating weekly fixtures, reporting results to the gair rhydd sports editors and ensuring facilities, first aid and referees are organised. However, the role is not limited and there are many opportunities for the expansion and improvement of IMG, which will hopefully be facilitated by the appointment of an additional IMG administrator this year.
Do you think it’s necessary to have some prior involvement with IMG?
Yes, it is not essential but it is good to have some idea of what is going on. I never actually played for an IMG team but was always involved socially and this drove me to get more involved.
Any tips for this year’s candidates?
I think it is important that the candidates are approachable and friendly; the students need to be reassured that the Chair is there for them. Ultimately IMG Chair is about keeping the students happy. A unique campaign always helps, so it’s best to start planning early.
In your year as Chair, what changes did you make?
Frustratingly I could only make small changes as so much of my time was taken up with the week-by-week organisation. Hopefully, this should be taken care of by the administrator this year, leaving the chair with plenty of time for improvement.
So you still feel there’s a lot that needs improving within IMG?
Definitely. I didn’t manage to achieve a lot of what I set out to do. I feel IMG can be greatly expanded with many more students participating.
You expressed early concern about refereeing; this still seems to be a problem. Do you think it’s important for this year’s candidate to finally resolve it?
Yes. It’s difficult because it’s costly and requires trained referees but it definitely needs sorting out.
Is this the same with the IMG Rugby set-up?
The situation with IMG Rugby is a real shame. It’s all based on health and safety and hopefully we will have an official statement from the WRU in the next few weeks. However, the introduction of Touch Rugby this year is an exciting new venture and it will be good to finally get IMG Rugby off the ground.
Finally after your year as Chair, how much does IMG mean to you?
IMG has been a massive part of my university career. Wednesday nights in the union were my favourite, seeing all the teams in their IMG shirts taking part in the obligatory post-match banter. It was being IMG Chair that made me more passionate about the union and this persuaded me to run for Student Union President.
While Andy has done an excellent job of running IMG this year, the importance of getting an enthusiastic new Chair seems crucial in preventing any more frustration among captains and players. Hopefully, the role this season will allow IMG to move forward.
If you are interested in becoming IMG chair this season please see the Cardiff Union website, www.cardiffstudents.com.
