Sarah Bell confirmed as the first ever female chairperson of CMRFU

Sarah Bell has been confirmed as the first ever female chairperson of Counties Manukau Rugby in the Union’s 70-year history. Bell, who has been a board member for the past four years, takes over from Gary Millington, whose tenure came to a close at the recent AGM. Counties Manukau Rugby chief executive Chad Shepherd said Bell will make a terrific leader for the organisation. "Sarah’s election as the first female chair in Counties Manukau Rugby’s 70-year history is a glass ceiling moment for our proud Union,” Shepherd explained. “Her appointment and leadership marks a continued era of progress, inclusivity, and growth for rugby in our region." Bell is a familiar face within the rugby community having grown up in the region as part of a renowned local family and she has already had a significant impact while serving as a board member. "I am honoured to be elected as the first female chair of the Counties Manukau Rugby Union in its 70th year,” Bell said. “This election holds special significance for me, having grown up in a rugby-mad family in Pukekohe, with deep ties to Counties Manukau Rugby. I have many fond memories of spending hours on the bank of the best local stadium in New Zealand. "This appointment reflects the strong values and culture that this proud union embodies. Rugby is a sport for everyone, and we are dedicated to growing, empowering and inspiring our communities through rugby. “I would also like to extend my gratitude to our former chair, Gary Millington, for his exceptional leadership and dedication over the past few years. His values, vision, and commitment have significantly strengthened Counties Manukau Rugby, paving the way for an exciting future. He, and those who came before him, have set incredibly high standards that I, along with the rest of the board, am committed to continuing." Counties Manukau Rugby Board Sarah Bell - Chair – Independent Director Andrew Foote - Director – Independent Director Mika Taito - Director – Independent Director Peter Fa’afiu - Director – Appointed Director Phil Mohan - Director – Appointed Director Kosta Lianos - Director – Appointed Director Trevor Strang - Director – Club Rugby Director Renee Maxwell - Director – Club Rugby Director Tara Coe - Director – Club Rugby Director Jack Kani - President John Bell - Vice President