Bookings now live for the RYA Affiliated Clubs Conference

Bookings are now open for the RYA Affiliated Clubs Conference supported by Gallagher, on Saturday 21 November with Ben Ainslie headlining a stellar virtual cast of expert speakers and workshops.

This year’s online conference will explore the theme of ‘a different world with new opportunities’, in recognition of the challenging times clubs have experienced over the last few months, the changes that have taken place and the innovative ideas and opportunities that have since emerged.

During the event, Olympic gold Medallist Ben Ainslie will be sharing his own experiences of lockdown and how America’s Cup contender INEOS Team UK has bounced back despite the difficulties, with an exclusive video presentation.

Hosted by double Olympic gold medallist and broadcaster Shirley Robertson, the programme of guest speakers will also include Chris Grant, Sport England board member and expert in strategy, leadership and group dynamics. Chris will be examining how clubs can decide what opportunities might be right for them to move forwards with confidence.

RYA Regional Development Officer Manager, Gareth Brookes, who organised the event said: “Clubs have been through an incredibly tough six months and the conference is a chance for us to support committee members and volunteers, reflect on our experiences and look ahead to the future.

“So much has changed in society and there has been a fast-forward in trends as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. We’re really pleased to be able to announce this interesting and varied line-up of speakers, stands and workshops to help clubs navigate this new landscape.

“Please do book a ticket even if you might not be able to attend on the day as the content will be available afterwards to reach as many people as possible, from what will be the most important and accessible RYA Affiliated Clubs Conference to date”.

Delegates will be able to take part from the comfort of their own home or get together with fellow members at their club to share the online experience together (subject to Government guidance on gatherings).

Key speakers will address delegates in the morning during the main part of the conference from 10am to 1.30pm. And throughout the weekend there will be an online expo area with interactive ‘stands’ – Friday 12:00-19:00, Saturday 09:00-17:00 and Sunday 10:00-12:00 – with access to RYA expertise with our legal, racing and training teams, with bookable 1-1 appointments, live text Q&As, club case studies, regional and Home Country updates, downloadable resources and on-demand video.

Conference delegates will also be able to access club development webinar streams which will start from the 23rd November. Each stream will consist of three sessions with a session delivered each week. The club development webinar stream titles are - :

• How can your club use the RYA’s development model to help ensure a positive future for your club and members?
• How can your club successfully recruit and manage your team of volunteers?
• How can your club keep members supported and satisfied to reduce churn?
• Why a diverse membership matters and how to use a person-centred approach to deliver a great experience to a wider audience? 
• How can your club promote itself to potential new members?
• How can you minimise the impact of club activities on the environment?
• How can your engagement with the local community enable you to explore your full potential creating impact through the power of sport?

Further details about each of these streams will be provided on the booking form.

There will be technical support for those who may be unsure how to access the conference’s online content to ensure everyone who wants to participate can do so.

Book your FREE place for the 2020 RYA Affiliated Clubs Conference.

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