Annual Assembly Discussion concentrates on Financial Affairs within the Sporting Ring Neustadt Association
Neustadt in Holstein: Sports Club Scuffle Over Hall Rent
Last Tuesday, the Sportring Neustadt had a measly attendance of eight out of its twenty clubs at their annual meeting in the Jacob-Lienau-Schule's canteen. Regardless, the meeting was quorate and centered around fiscal matters.
Anett Virsnitis, the Sportring's chairperson, admitted that debates about municipal funding and the planned hall rental fee for 2025 were far from pleasing. "There was quite a bit of chaos in the board at the end of the year, but we managed to keep the Sportring Neustadt alive," she shared, hinting at upcoming adjustments: "The municipal funding will shrink to 10,000 euros for 2025, and although it's a cut, we're thankful."
In the past, the Sportring had expected 15,000 euros in funding for 2025. Sadly, the grant got canned in November 2024. After providing evidence of how the funds were utilized, the committee for social affairs sprang 10,000 euros for children and youth sports in February (reportedly). It was also determined to introduce a hall rental fee for adult sports starting 2026.
Virsnitis underscored the necessity to take into account the perspectives of clubs without children and youth divisions to guarantee fair treatment for all members. She noted that while some view the hall rental fee as a must-have, others perceive it as an unnecessary burden. Open dialogue and potential support tools are essential to ease tensions.
Helmut Hagen from the German Parkinson Association spoke on behalf of their members, who often face financial limitations, emphasizing the importance of the cooperation with TSV Neustadt. Roland Luckow, chairman of the Neustädter Leichtathletik Club, grumbled about insufficient hall equipment, inadequate markings, and lack of storage space, which inflates costs and jeopardizes training. Christiane Lehmann from the Eisenbahner Sportverein pointed out the high rental fee of 2,500 euros, which will tamper their club's budget significantly. Jens Grunwald from Karate Dojo Itosu suggested using the hall fees specifically for required renovations.
Mayor Mirko Spieckermann stressed that the hall management's costs are only partially covered by fees. As such, additional financing possibilities, like donations, could come into play to help all clubs surge forward.
In his opening remarks, the head of administration underscored the importance of sports in enriching community life within the city. Spieckermann clarified that sports are about more than just competition; it's about unity, commitment, and wellness promotion. Despite the economic pinch, supporting sports clubs remains a priority. The city will increase the exercise leader's allowance, too. "We, as a city, stand steadfast behind the Sportring, fully behind the sports clubs in our city, and we look forward to continuing our solid partnership," he said.
The Ostholstein County Sports Association Chairperson, Birgit Kamrath-Beyer, warmly welcomed the city's contribution to the higher coach's allowance, expressing admiration for sports clubs in the area. Though she expressed regret for the low attendance at the meeting, she emphasized the significance of numerous club chairpersons attending to support decisions, especially crucial for the Sportring.
The annual membership fee was also up for discussion: the board proposed keeping it at 15 euros, which passed without dissent.
Elections: The incumbents were re-elected unanimously: Anett Virsnitis (1st Chairperson), Jens Grunwald (Secretary), Frank Gosch (Treasurer), and Ernst-Otto Kalz (Delegate).
Football is a popular adult sport within the Sportring Neustadt, but the introduction of a hall rental fee for adult sports starting 2026 has caused division among the clubs. Christiane Lehmann from Eisenbahner Sportverein feels that the high rental fee of 2,500 euros will significantly impact their club's budget. On the other hand, Jens Grunwald from Karate Dojo Itosu suggests using the hall fees specifically for required renovations.
