The Otago Rugby Football Union has scored at each end.
The union yesterday announced an operating profit of $161,106 for the financial period ending November 30, 2016. And, happily, it also reported an increase in playing numbers.
Last financial period the ORFU recorded an operating deficit of $163,107 but it has reversed its fortunes, mainly due to the revenue it generated through hosting the All Blacks-Wales test in June.
Otago also hosted a Mitre 10 Cup semifinal and final which boosted its coffers.
A further $107,500 was received to invest in the development of a gym and office facility.
The 2016-17 financial year is budgeted to deliver a lower result but will depend on the number of Mitre 10 Cup games hosted in the region.
The bottom line is not the only area in which the union is looking healthier.
The union implemented a new structure at the start of 2016. An emphasis on supporting the recruitment and retention of coaches was identified as critical to the future of the union's community rugby programme.
A role supporting club and secondary school volunteers and administrators was also established and the results have been gratifying.
There has been an increase in players and total player numbers are up 2.9% to 7843. The stock of female players aged 13-20 has risen by 9% and there has also been a 6% increase in registered coaches.
''To see the growth in the number of coaches who work directly in developing players across the region was a fantastic outcome for the year,'' ORFU general manager Richard Kinley said.
''To continue to build on this growth the union is committed to providing a strong ongoing support and development programme for all our players, coaches, referees administrators and volunteers.''
