“Sam” successful

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31775, 4 September 1968, Page 13

“Sam” successful

"Sam”—speed, accuracy and marking—was the key word of the Canterbury Country basketball team which won the third grade at the recent national championships in Gisborne without suffering a loss. After the tournament, the team was promoted to the second grade.

The team manager (Miss M. Robinson) said that the team’s dedication, friendliness and style of play were well received by players, referees and administrators.

The team's high degree of fitness could be attributed to the home target exercises initiated by Mr B. Blick, of Clarkville, for all the players, she said.

The standard of play In all phases was high at the tournament, Miss Robinson said. The goal shooting of B. Horgan and J. Ross and the centre court combination of V. Mugford at centre and J. Fleming playing wing attack enhanced the team’s chances from the opening game. The defence of the team was very strong, Miss Robin-

son said, with M. Evans (captain) and A. Drummond (vice-captain) ably supported by G. Cossar at wing defence. All the defending players were quick to the rebound and set up attacking movements from defensive positions. Commenting on the future of the team. Miss Robinson said that the next goal after rising from fourth tn second grade in two national tournaments was to attain the first grade. Obviously a higher standard of fitness and improved technique would be needed for this grade. From the team of nine experienced players would come a fine nucleus of next year's team. Miss Robinson said. The chance of playing with the top bracket of New Zealand teams would be a great incentive for the players. |