first ever female president, ousting incumbent David Kneisler at the annual general meeting.

Maiato squeezed into the top post by the slimmest of margins -- 26 votes to 24.

The count ended `The Kneisler Era' which spanned eight years of service. "We made a little bit of history here,'' said Maiato, when contacted yesterday.

"I think it's great and gives us an opportunity. We have a good outlook on the club and a lot of ideas that we want to bring forward -- activities, dances and other functions as well as continuing with the soccer programme.

"BAA is a lovely property with a great deal of growth potential.'' Maiato has operated her own business -- Maiato Enterprises -- performing landscaping, construction and painting tasks for the past 19 years.

However, she doesn't expect her latest venture to be a one-woman show. Six women have so far been named to the executive committee -- which has yet to be completed -- along with five men. The president retains the option to choose up to four more for the committee.

"It's always been run by all men, but it was time for a change and an injection of new blood,'' said Maiato, her voice rasping. "Don't get me wrong, the guys are there, will stay there and are needed.'' Maiato also hailed Kneisler for his stellar leadership that witnessed the advent of several beneficial programmes for the youngsters, including an array of coaching clinics featuring overseas stars, camps as well as enhancing the business aspect of the establishment.

"David did a great job at the club and put a lot of time and dedication toward it.'' Meanwhile, the now past president was left to reflect upon his tenure, but his tone openly suggested his desire to stay close to the action, with the likelihood of a 1996 presidential bid.

"Those were great years and we made tremendous strides and inroads with development of the facility and coaching camps and the establishment of a solid youth programme,'' said Kneisler. "I have no hard feeling. We all have our tour of duty...not to say I wouldn't like to be back there.'' Elected alongside Maiato were Richard Burns as vice-president and treasurer Steven Duxbury.