Former Chairman and player Alan Cullotty has become the latest club stalwart to be inducted into Bournville’s Hall of Fame.
Alan was presented with his Hall of Fame certificate and badge by Alistair Blacklaw in a packed Avery Fields clubhouse before the National Two West match against Loughborough Students.
The induction recognises almost half a century of contribution to Bournville RFC as a player, county player, captain, Chairman and more recently as a strategist.
“It’s a real pleasure to have the opportunity to induct Alan into the Bournville Rugby Hall of Fame. It is thoroughly deserved recognition for someone who has contributed so much to the club both as a player and off the field over many years,” Blacklaws said
“Alan has always set high standards and has played an important part in some of the biggest developments in the club’s history. It is also great to have him back actively involved with Bournville again and helping us plan for the future.”
Alan first arrived at Bournville at the age of 17 having never previously played rugby. Within a year he had established himself in the First XV at centre. He was a fast and elusive runner as well as a hard-running, hard-tackling back and became the club’s leading try scorer.
After several seasons, he moved to Bromsgrove to test himself at a higher level and achieved his ambition of representing the county. He eventually returned to Bournville where he went on to captain the Second XV and play for the Vets.
His contribution off the field was equally significant. Alan helped raise standards throughout the club. He introduced a code of conduct and helped secure sponsorship which enabled Bournville teams to be properly and consistently kitted out. He also played an important role as the club strengthened its playing side and began to climb through the leagues.
As Chairman Alan introduced the Bournville Executive, creating a more streamlined management structure with greater clarity and accountability. He also helped restructure the club’s commercial approach. Events developed during this period including the Bournville Golf Day, Sportsman’s Lunch and Winter Ball became important parts of the club’s calendar and helped strengthen its commercial position.
Alan was also instrumental in the discussions and strategy which ultimately led to Bournville establishing its permanent home at Avery Fields.
More recently, Alan has returned to play an active role in the club, chairing the Strategy Group producing the recently published five-year plan which will shape the club’s plans the future.
“I was very honoured to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Bournville has been a big part of my family’s life for many years and I’ve made a lot of good friends through the club. I’ve always simply tried to do whatever I could to help Bournville move forward. To receive this recognition in front of so many former players and friends was very special,” Alan said.
“I would also like to recognise my wife Karen, my daughter Laura and my sister-in-law Katrina. They have supported both me and Bournville enormously over the years and have made their own significant contributions to the club. My thanks go to them and to everyone at Bournville for this recognition.”
Alan’s brother Paul, himself a former Bournville player, was MC for the occasion and joined Alan for a photograph following the presentation.
