TENNIS VISITORS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 26, 31 January 1934, Page 12

TENNIS VISITORS.

IMPRESSIONS OF DOMINION. In speaking, on their return to Australia, of their impressions in New Zealand, Miss Nell Hall and Miss Louie Bickerton paid tribute to the hospitality they received here. "We learned a lot, too," said Miss Hall. ''We have come back thankful that we live in Australia, and can play our tennis all the year round and under ideal condi-

tions. "New Zen landers," continued Miss Hall, "play under decided disadvantages. In winter, for instance, play is impossible. Tennis enthusiasts take to golf. In Wellington it blows so hard that high shots arc out of the question. We were told that it is no unusual occurrence for the umpire and his stand to be blown over. .Judging by the force of the gale in which we won the Test, I do not think our informants exaggerated.

Provision of Umpires. "Our oflicials, however, could take one leaf from New Zealand's book. Over there umpires are provided for all championships, even the opening rounds. For the later games, linesmen are also

provided. "Of course, the standard of play here is much higher, but I would like to see a regular interchange of visits between Australia and New Zealand. Their seniors have not improved since our tour in 1932; Mrs. M. Dykes, Misses Dulcic Nicholls and Marjoric MacFarlane arc still the stars, but the juniors, especially Misses Thelma Poole, Melva Wake, J. Burns, D. Dickie and Joan Beverlcy are promising.

"I've never seen our team play better. Louie Bickerton struck form she has not exhibited since she returned from abroad with the 1928 Australian team. She impressed with her variety of strokes, and well deserved her victory in the New Zealand singles and doubles championships."