Dear Member
NIGEL HOPKINSON
Nigel has decided to step down from the Committee. On behalf of the Club Committee, I want to thank him for his 5 or so year’s service which resulted in excellent coverage in the local press of our Competitions and Matches.
GERALD DE VILLIERS
Gerald, an active Men’s Section Member, has agreed to take on the role of Club Vice Captain on October 1st. Here is what he says about himself.
“Born in South Africa, a long time ago, I started playing golf aged about 10, learning from my dad while caddying for him. I have been a member of Rustenburg GC, near the famous Sun City resort as well as Westlake GC in Cape Town and Houghton & CMR GCs in Johannesburg. More recently I was a briefly a member at Batchwood Hall GC and joined Little Hay GC in 2021. I have been welcomed at the club by the members and quickly settled in, despite being labelled a bandit from time to time, but all in good spirit. My best handicap so far is 12, and I am working hard to get to that level again, and even lower if possible.
I played cricket for about 10 years for Shenley Village CC where I served on the committee as 4th team captain, gaining promotion twice and winning our division as well. I have also served in various capacities on the Board of the St Albans County Club, including a one-year tenure as President.
I am passionate about sport in general and golf especially and I am excited about serving Little Hay GC in the years to come. I enjoy the course, the members, and the culture of Little Hay, and feel like this is my golfing home.
Professionally, I have Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. I have worked as a project manager and director in the banking sector for about 30 years, specialising in anti-financial crime projects. I have taken a career break from that now, and am working on building an independent consultancy.”
I look forward to working with Gerald and he and I are planning to play with as many Members as possible over the coming months AND raise money for Charity. Details of this to follow in October.
NIGEL LEWIS
Nigel joined the Club this year and has since worked hard to get his first Handicap.
He is a qualified Chartered Accountant (FCCA).
Here is how he summarised his experience to me in a longer document.
” I hold a Master’s in Business Administration degree (MBA). I have 40 years finance experience gained at various levels – Dept., Division, Subsidiary and Group in a major UK financial institution, a national manufacturing company, a National Charity, an Educational Academy and a multi-national financial start-up. In terms of security checks, I had Security Clearance from the Ministry of Defence in one role.
Outside of employment, I hold / have held Committee / Area positions in a residential community and for a classic car club.”
Nigel has very quickly picked up the reins of the Treasurer Role and is bringing his financial experience to bear with planned improvements to our forecasting and reporting systems.
SUPPORT YOUR CLUB
We continue to have unfilled vacancies on our Committee for Competition Secretary and Club Secretary.
The Club cannot function without the help of volunteers like Gerald and Nigel coming forward. Every Member has skills and experience they can offer. Please contact me if you think you can help.
With Best Wishes for enjoyable golf all year round.
Regards
Phil Gonzalez
Club Captain