NICK Smith has been officially appointed as Launceston Rugby Club’s chairman following the recent departure of Andrew Crichton.

Smith had been standing in until the annual general meeting which was held on Monday, June 22, but now takes on the role full-time.

The main items on the agenda were officially voting Smith in, while former captain Lloyd Duke and the recently-retired Levent Bulut were elected to the board as directors where they will work together on on-field matters alongside new head coach Steve Perry and forwards coach Will James.

On his appointment, Nick said: “Having been involved with the club for many years, I have seen first-hand the dedication of our players, coaches, volunteers, sponsors and supporters.

“Their commitment is what makes Launceston Rugby Club such a special place, and I am privileged to have the opportunity to help lead the club into its next chapter.

“I’ve been part of this club since I was eight-years-old. I’ve played down here up through the Colts, and I’ve just brought my son up through from the under 7s right through to the Colts as well, so I’ve always been a part of the club.”

Duke and Bulut are also pleased to be in their roles, the former adding: “It’s a local club supported by local businesses, and the more we can get involved the better.

“I think the best teams work to their strengths and weaknesses, so maybe they think we can add a more of a rugby side”, while Bulut added: “We’ve both been out here long enough, we know how rugby is run in regard to what a team needs and what a coach needs, so we are hoping to add to that. “I’m extremely honoured to step away from rugby on the field, but now help move the club forward.”