HOCKEY

Press, Volume LXXXVII, Issue 26397, 16 April 1951, Page 3

HOCKEY

INCREASE IN SENIOR TEAMS

MATCHES TO BEGIN NEXT SATURDAY

' Hockey competitions will begin next Saturday. Hockey clubs were out in full force last Saturday, and coaches were busy sorting out the teams to be entered. The introduction of two additional teams in the senior grade competition will oe viewed with Interest, as the two teams likely to be promoted, Harewood and High School Old Boys, are composed of keen and fast players who have youth and stamina and will be sure to play fast if inexperienced hockey. With many of the old representative players approaching the retiring age, the Canterbury Hockey Association's move will probably widen the field of candidates for representative honours and will encourage a number pf younger players. Selwyn, Sydenham, and West Old Boys had large musters. Selwyn and Sydenham will no doubt be well to the fore in the top grades. West Old Boys, strong numerically, made a good start last year, but lost form and were well down the list in the senior B grade competition. University will regain two tries players, as both T. Eggleton and T. Armstrong are back again, but R. Armstrong, D. Wilson, and P. Cotton will play for High School Old Boys. Technical is perhaps hit the worst of the senior teams. J. Grimley, R. Roberts, R. Leney, L. Dixey, and A. Norman are retiring, and it will probably be a season or two before the team regains its strength. Trinity will be fairly strong, although C. Stafford and R. Clark are doubtful starters. . E. Thomas will lead the forwards, who will include E. Allen, H. Robinson, and G. Reid. Woolston will have few changes, as most of last year’s seniors are available. It is probable that the new ground in Simeon street (Williamson Park) will be in use early this season, as there is a good sole of grass and the embankment and dressing-rooms are ready. WOMEN’S HOCKEY A resolution that all women’s senior grade hockey matches are to be played i except for unforeseen circumstances) at Hospital Comer, met with disfavour from the only country team, Rangiora. In past years Rangiora has had a number of matches on the home ground, a policy which no doubt helped the club, ,which had a smattering of local support. The effect of the new resolution will bring all senior games into Christchurch and localise first-class hockey on Hagley Park.

Most women’s clubs were out with good musters on Saturday, but for the next two Saturdays friendly matches only will be played. Competition games proper will commence on May 5.