In acknowledging a difficult and challenging year, the hard working committee paid tribute to all the players, parents, coaches and volunteers for a tremendous effort due to health and safety restrictions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, and are looking forward to a brighter, less disruptive season in 2021.

Toby Fraser (under 18s) was awarded the Most Outstanding Club Person (Colleen Cooper Perpetual trophy), while Leigh Byfield took out the President's Award, by ensuring that everyone remained COVID safe during the eight completed rounds.

And while the Gropers players and supporters could not congregate for a typical end of season presentation day, many individual teams held small gatherings to present their own awards and to acknowledge the work of players, officials and family.

At the annual general meeting of the Nelson Bay Junior Gropers held recently, Dion Cooper was re-elected president and he will this year be assisted by newly elected vice-president Troy Atkinson.

Kellie Vincent remains as secretary, Anthony Workman treasurer and Mitch Fraser as registrar. Other committee members include Josh Tyacke, Leigh Byfield and newcomer Shane Jarvis.

"We will be working closely with senior Gropers new president Gavin Rocher to develop pathways for our U16, 17 and 18 players as they look to make the transition into senior ranks," said Vincent.

"The club will also host a junior girls summer seven a side series to kick off on February 5, with expressions of interest being taken from the U13, U15 and U17 girls age groups. Anyone wishing to play to should contact Leigh on 0435 818 861.

"And we are hoping for a full 2021 season in the Hunter Junior Rugby competition, fielding teams from U8s to U17s plus 10-a-side girls."

Vincent said that the shortened season in 2020 had taken a toll on the club's resources with very little income coming from sponsors and a suspension of the usual fundraising activities such as raffles and canteen.

If anyone is interested in sponsoring/supporting the Gropers in 2021, contact Dion Cooper on 0409 641 450.