By Phil Skeggs

A new committee was enthusiastically endorsed at the Ivanhoe footy club’s AGM on Monday night. The club’s longest serving president Rob Pearce passed the baton to club games record holder Peter Rawley (pictured below).

Rawley asked about 30 members in attendance for a much-deserved standing ovation for his predecessor. Joining Rawley on committee are former junior club president Mark Centofanti, who replaces Dom Mitchell as vice-president. 2021 Reserves coach and website editor Ross Toogood steps into the role of secretary, which Pearce also held over the past two seasons. Liz Valkanis takes over as treasurer from Kate Drapac after four years. Drapac, a supporter since she was 15, confirmed that the club was back in the black.

Rawley started as an under 19 in 1987 and was football operations director this year. He is convinced, especially after experiencing the great club vibe at presentation night on Saturday, that Ivanhoe is ready to go to a whole new level on and off the field next year.

Rob Pearce was president for a total of 10 years. His first stint was from 2000-04, then 2010-11, and 2019-21.

Rawley played 370 games, including a stint as senior captain, and is a member of the Ivanhoe Hall of Fame. Ross Toogood has played 255 games for the club.