The Board of Directors series continues with Dennis Verge, a member of the Bowls Canada Board of Directors since 2020. Dennis currently holds the Treasurer position and is a dedicated volunteer at all levels of the sport.
Q: How did you first get into lawn bowls and how have you been involved with the sport over the years?
A: I was introduced by a co-worker and loved the game after the first roll. I started as a club bowler when I retired, joined the club Executive almost immediately, and have been involved ever since. I was involved in bowls South Island, a group of 11 clubs in and around Victoria, and I was Treasurer at Bowls BC as well. I love competing and one day I will hopefully play in the Nationals.
Q: What do you like most about the sport?
A: I love the social aspect of it. My wife and I enjoy all the activities of the club. I especially like that anyone can be a terrific bowler, regardless of physical ability. It is a sport for everyone.
Q: What are your responsibilities as Treasurer on the Bowls Canada Board of Directors?
A: As Treasurer, I support the Board in all matters that affect the financial health of the organization. This includes helping develop fiscal policy, providing leadership in governance and supporting BCB staff in decision making.
Q: Why is it important to have a board of directors?
A: The Board of Directors provides direction and governance and adds many years of bowling expertise. The Board is also a requirement for not-for-profit organizations.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish while on the board? What personal skills and attributes do you believe will help you achieve this?
A: BCB is in a good position due to competent management and I hope to continue to maintain this. I am a CPA with 40 years of experience in the private and public sectors, managing for profit companies and not-for-profit organizations.
Q: What new challenges has this presented to you?
A: Learning how sport organizations are managed, how they are funded in Canada, and how I can add to the growth of the sport are all new to me. I would love to see bowls as an Olympic Sport and I would love to see the sport grow beyond a demographic of primarily the retirement community.
Q: When you’re not playing or volunteering with the sport, how do you spend your time?
A: I love to golf, travel and spend time with family and friends. With four lovely grandchildren, there are many opportunities to do so. Our favorite destination for travel is Europe, and I hope to get back there this year.
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
A: I can often be seen playing in bowls tournaments with my twin sister Dorothy, who is as competitive as I am. Everyone assumes she is my wife given the same last name. Not funny!
