Rugby Football

Hutt News, Volume 20, Issue 14, 27 March 1946, Page 4

Rugby Football

PROSPECTS FOil THE SEASON (By C. D.) In common with other clubs a large increase in the Hutt Football Club’s membership is reported. Approximately 40 new players have already attended training, which commenced last week and is being continued on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of each week. In addition to new members a number of old players have rejoined consequent upon being released from the Forces. Amongst those who have commenced training are Tony Graham. Peter King (who repped for South Island last year), Jack Foster, Steve Hobbs, Jimmy Cosgrove, R. G. Swain. Pat and Bill Scullion, Ted Wall, Bill Treseder and Buster Laing are expected to put in an appearance this week. Buzzer Hare, and Pat Martin and J. C. McKay have rejoined. Amongst the new members the most notable acquisition is Graham Delamore. His value to the team and the club cannot be over-esti-mated, particularly when the weakness of the inside backs during past seasons is called to mind. With Peter King at. centre the team will have two key men of high calibre. Just who will be the connecting link between them will not be known until the practice games have been played. Prospective Players. Of last year's players Southen and Angus have joined the J. Relief Force now in training. Nothing is known regarding Tutaki, and it is believed that Pollard is an unlikely starter, but it is to be hoped that this is not correct, as this player looked like developing into a top grade forward last season. Alister Phillips departed before the end of last season. These appear to be all the defections to date, the remainder having signified their intention of turning out again. With several other new players claiming senior status and last year's juniors'all aspiring for places, there will be keen competition for places and some of last year’s senior players will have to work hard to retain their places. Those who have commenced training early should have an advantage. Importance of Training It is possible a .Senior Second Division team may be entered. Everything depends on gymnasium attendances during this and next week, which every player intending to play should attend.

Grade competitions are expected to commence on April 27, prior to which it is hoped to play the usual practice games against Petone and the annual gymnasium match fixtures' against the Athletic Club. These will have to he played on Auril G and 13, subject to grounds being available..

Easter fixtures are difficult to arrange owing to the number of players on holiday. Should there be sufficient offering, however, an endeavour should be made to arrange games. Those available should advise the club captain, Mr. R. J. Feeney