CRICKET FACILITIES AT PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 120, 16 February 1944, Page 8

CRICKET FACILITIES AT PRIMARY SCHOOLS

“The state ot senior cricket in Wellington is at a very low ebb," said Mr. D. I’. Caird on Monday when laying before tiie Wellington School Committees and Educational Association proposals for increasing the facilities for cricket coaching at primary schools in Wellington. "Auckland has produced many fine cricketers, and 1 think tliat there is a practice wicket at most of their schools. In IVellington, as far as I know, not one has such a wicket except, possibly, Miramar.” Mr. Caird, who represents primary schools on the management committee of the Wellington Cricket Association, suggested that committees should set aside a corner of the playground of each school for a grass wicket, three yards by six yards, fenced on three sides. Cricket could not, he declared, properly be taught on concrete or asphalt. The upkeep of tho wickets would have to be under tiie care of a teacher, or failing the teacher, a member of the school committee Or a training college student, hut the work should be done by the boys, for care of the wicket and of cricket material was n fundamental of the cricketer. Mr. Caird also raised the question of supplies or balls and other equipment. Mr. Caird's remarks were supported by Mr. 11. E. Moore, a member of the management committee ot the Wellington Cricket Association. After some discussion among members it was decided that the Minister of Supply be asked to give an instruction that in the allocation of sporting equipment preference be given to primary schools. Members expressed the view that after the address by Mr. Caird, teaciiers approaching their school committees mignt find they would be better received.