Audit boost for ELA from Sport England By Neil Goulding – from LacrosseTalk April-May 2003 The ELA’s policies and management have received an encouragingly positive report from Sport England, following a recent audit on the effectiveness of the ELA programmes. Many volunteers and the ELA staff have been interviewed as part of the audit process and the initial report has now been presented for consideration by the ELA Executive Committee. Many of the findings highlight the success that the ELA has had over the last few years, particularly with its Development Programme. Points made in the report include describing the ELA as ‘a robust governing body of sport, supported by loyal and dedicated volunteers and staff.’ The Development Plan is observed to be ‘the jewel in the crown for the ELA. The recruitment, training and useage of coaches (primarily from the USA) to deliver the development programmes is an example of best practice. The development programmes are being very effectively implemented and are good value for money.’ Press and publicity also came in for praise, as did the work being done to develop the Lacrossemark scheme and the Club Player pack. The report recommended that the ELA should seek grant aid support for its IT modernisation and to formulate a coordinated plan for its good marketing and income generating ideas. A note of caution was sounded in respect of the cost of servicing the membership package and it was recommended that a ‘thorough review be undertaken to ascertain the true cost of servicing the membership, and that membership subscriptions be reviewed to ensure that these costs are covered.’ ELA CEO David Shuttleworth commented, ‘It is pleasing to receive such a positive report. ‘We are at an important time in negotiating our future funding from Sport England and some of the comments made by the auditors will certainly help us in making the case for lacrosse.’