Thank you to everyone who attended the Field Club Annual Meeting last night at Longmeadow Country Club. Over 150 people attended and everyone on the waitlist was invited to join.
In honor of our 60-year-anniversary celebration, special guests included Jim Girotti and his wife Linda, Anne Boisvert, and Mitch Dobek. Two charter members (joining in 1964), Diane Doherty and Ann Shupack were present. Thank you Lauren Life (outgoing Social and Ground Board Liaison) for making this a special night for everyone.
Check the Longmeadow Field Club Facebook photos.
Doherty Award
The most memorable moment of the night for me was Rob Durfee’s Doherty Award acceptance speech. He spoke of the Field Club being a special place – “there’s nothing like it anywhere”. This is especially emotional as he and Darcy give up membership after 39 years to move to Maine. We will miss them!
Rob’s fondest moments were coaching Junior Paddle. Over 35 kids ages 8-14 went through the program and were taught skills and grew their love for the game. Rob said he was so proud watching their progress over the 18 week program. The Board thanked Rob for everything he has done for the Field Club over the years!
Ann Boisvert Tennis Center
The Field Club Board honored Ann Boisvert and with the naming of the Ann Boisvert Tennis Center. The board presented a plaque to Ann which will be hung outside the tennis hut. Congratulations Ann!
The plaque reads:
Ann Boisvert Tennis Center
During our 60th year celebration, we honor our long-term tennis professional and friend Annie who taught generations of members to learn and love the game of tennis. Dedicated November 7, 2024
Announcement of the New General Manager
Dan Handzel’s contract which expires December 31st, will not be renewed. The Field Club Board is pleased to announce that a new general manager, Scott Bombardier started November 1st. Dan, the Board, our EZFacility expert, Amy Tyler, and all members will help Scott in his new role.
Personally, I am already very impressed with Scott’s personality, dedication and follow through. I think you will be too. Please introduce yourselves and welcome Scott.
New Board is Elected
The 2024-2025 slate of new board of governors were elected.
President – Peggy Conley
Vice President – Nick Bucci
Treasurer – Nick Bucci
Clerk – John Lake
Assistant Treasurer – Mike Salvon
Assistant Clerk – Maddy Martin
Four never board members were elected in for three year term:
Kathleen Pittman – Membership
Jen Duval – Paddle and Pickleball
Maureen Posner – Communications and Marketing
Mike Salvon – Social and Gounds
Returning for one more year in the 3-year term: Stefania Foster – Tennis and Junior Tennis
Returning for two more years in the 3-year term: Nick Bucci – Treasurer and VP, John Lake – Clerk, and Maddy Martin – Pool, Snuggery and Tot
Senior Dues Proposal
The proposal to reduce the membership dues for singles 80 and older did NOT pass last night. After much discussion, the motion was tabled and the board will be doing an assessment of the member dues structure. We’ll report back our recommendation at the next annual meeting.
Field Club Continues to be FinancIally Healthy
The Board is very proud to report the financial strength driven by strong membership (recruitment and retention) and prudent management of operating expenses. Thank you outgoing tresurer, Kevin Sheehy.
Capital Projects Completed
Paul reviewed all capital committee improvements made including pool repairs, sealing and painting, improved drainage behind the snuggery and structural repairs to Paddle Court 2. Paul thanked members for their understanding and patience during the temporary Court 2 shutdown. The undercarriage will be inspected in the spring and any further or more permanent repairs, if needed, will be made then.
Membership
Katie Wartman thanked everyone who sponsored new members. Please promote the Field Club and sponsor new families so we can keep our membership levels up.
Thank you to the outgoing board members.
Paul Nicholson served five years on the board (3 as treasurer, two as president) and left the club financially and structurally in great shape.
Lauren Life served as Social and Grounds Board Liaison and hosted many successful events, donated the lending library, and decorated the upstairs tennis hut.
Kevin Sheehy served as treasurer for three years and left us in great financial shape.
Katie Wartman brought over 100 families and single members into the club and ran orientation sessions to help new members feel welcome.
If you didn’t pick up a Field Club 60-year anniversary sticker at the meeting, it can be picked up at the Paddle Hut. Please take one per adult member so there will be plenty for everyone.
I look forward to a new year with optimism.
All the best,
Peggy Conley, Field Club President
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