SIXTY YEARS OF PROGRESS.

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 144, 15 March 1938, Page 16

SIXTY YEARS OF PROGRESS.

Athletic Football Club’s Report “The past year marked 60 years of steady progress and. we enter the new era with confidence m the knowledge ot the increasing strength of the club andthe desire of its members to. preserve the high ’traditions established in the past, states the report to be presented to the Athletic Football Club’s annual meeting at Wellington on Wednesday night. “Last year, notwithstanding an . early start necessitated by the diamond jubilee celebrations held during Easter, enthusiasm was maintained at a high level throughout the season. “Although all teams had an enjoyable season, only one, our first fifteen, was successful in winning championship honours. The standard of play tn the lower grades was, perhaps, a little disappointing and as the future success of the club depends largely on the junior members ot to-day, greater attention must be given by the incoming committee to general improvement in this direction. Our first fifteen earned the congratulations ot members for its splendid achievement in winning the senior championship tor the second year in succession. The general team work was of high standard and particularly consistent throughout the series of games. Gymnasium attendance was well maintained and, together with fine team spirit and co-operation on the field, contributed largely to the successful re“Celebrationa of the diamond jubilee held during Easter were-entirely successful. Large numbers of old members took the opportunity to renew friendships’ or former years and memories of the occasion will remain with those who participated during the years ahead. Dressing-room Completed.

i “The completion of the new dressing accommodation at the gymnasium was very satisfactory to players, the up-to-date premises providing every comfort and convenience during training operations. Owing to lack of funds, the furnishing of the clubroom could not be completed last season, but with a special amount raised for the purpose it is expected this can be accomplished . before the new season opens. 'When this is done the premises will he among the best provided by any Rugby club in the-Dominion. A fine addition to the club was the completion of an honours board recording the names of club members who gained New Zealand representative honours while playing for the club. It is very pleasing to’ record numerous donations of old photographs of past teams and our collection is now nearly complete.” Numerous benefactors are thanked in the report, among them Mr. N. Boyd, who presented a handsome shield for. lower grade competition. This shield will be known as the Diamond Jubilee Shield and is to be awarded annually to the club team scoring the greatest number of points in the Griffiths Memorial Trophy. Points are awarded for conscientious attention to conduct, punctuality, loyalty and dress.

“The year marked the passing of an old and distinguished member of the club, the late Colonel G. F. C. Campbell, C.M.G., president and life member. His death occurred shortly before the celebration of the diamond jubilee, an event be had eagerly awaited. One of the founders of the club and first secretary, his name had therefore been connected with the Athletic Football Club for 60 years. At all times his advice, based on a lifetime of experience, had been of inestimable value to the executive. He will be greatly missed. .“Club finances are at present in a healthy condition, the balance of assets over liabilities amounting to £1231/6/7. The gymnasium property has been valued at £1532.”