Ken Fann, in his first trophy presentation as PNB President, hands the runner PNB Women's Pairs trophy to Amanzimtoti’s Leigh Callaghan and Lynn Joubert.
Image: Supplied
When Ken Fann was entrusted with the presidency of Port Natal Bowls, his reaction was a mix of pride and resolve. Proud, he says, of the confidence placed in him by the district; resolute because he understands precisely what the role demands at this moment in the game’s evolution. For Fann, this appointment is not ceremonial.
It is corrective, purposeful and rooted in a deeply personal conviction that bowls must be administered with discretion, dignity and professionalism — values he believes were previously compromised to the detriment of bowlers.
That conviction has been shaped by long service. Over the years, Fann has worn many hats: selector, team manager, executive member, Vice President and Convener of Selectors. Each role, he believes, revealed both progress and persistent shortcomings within the district.
Committees, he notes, have improved in calibre and competence through the deliberate recruitment of committed individuals with diverse expertise. Yet, he remains frank about the distance still to be travelled. His preparation for the presidency was cemented during his time as Convener and Vice President — a period he credits to the mentorship of former president, Steve Kelf.
Fann describes his leadership style in simple, uncompromising terms: firm, forthright and compliant. Compliance, in his view, is fidelity to the Constitution that governs the bowls fraternity. Within a district comprising clubs of varying size, history and influence; such consistency is essential.
Collaboration, he admits, has historically been uneven, with too much focus on dominant clubs. Under his watch, smaller and lesser known clubs will be more actively involved and recognised.
His vision for the district is clear and youth-focused. Fann wants to enhance discipline and growth among younger bowlers through exposure, while ensuring that senior players do not create bottlenecks that frustrate emerging talent.
Integration and transformation, supported by deliberate efforts to grow inclusive and multicultural club membership, are mandatory imperatives. By the end of his term, he hopes to see genuine cohesion between memberships of affiliated clubs, all working towards a common goal: building a stronger district together.
The junior question looms large. Declining trial numbers, from 40 juniors in 2025 to as few as 12–15 more recently, underscore the challenge. Fann is candid: older members must embrace renewal and create opportunities, or risk discouraging committed young bowlers from remaining in the game.
He advocates a more welcoming club culture, stronger visibility at development events and proactive marketing of bowls in schools. Encouragingly, he notes, it is often smaller clubs leading this effort.
Beyond youth, sustainability remains a concern. Funding shortfalls and the practice of minimising affiliation contributions through social membership structures threaten the district’s financial health. Competitively, however, Fann is unwavering. Wearing the district badge, he says, is an honour, and those selected must display not only ability, but professionalism and decorum.
Communication, finally, is where he hopes to draw the district together. An open-door policy, direct engagement and encouragement for clubs to participate fully in Port Natal competitions form the backbone of his approach.
With strong relationships across other districts and growing national recognition, Fann enters the presidency with clarity and purpose — determined to steer Port Natal Bowls towards unity, growth and renewed pride.