MAORI TEAM

Hokitika Guardian, 9 July 1935, Page 5

MAORI TEAM

tendered CIVIC RECEPTION (Australian Press Association.) SYDNEY, July 8. At the civic reception to the Maori team, Alderman McMahon, in receiving the visitors, mentioned that he had himself played Rugby against the first New Zealand team to visit Australia in the year 1889. Alderman Marks referred to the performances of the previous Maori teams, remarking that they had always played clean, fast football. Mr D. Maugan, representing the 'Great Public Schols .Association, said that New Zealand was “a great asset to the finest game played in the British Empire.” He added: “I think that New Zealanders are the cream of the earth.”

Mr Taliiwi said that the Maoris regarded football as the greatest fraternity of friendship that ever existed. “In Rugby Union,” he said, “we see an opportunity of developing the trinity in every man—his physical, intellectual, and spiritual sides—and this attitude towards sport is developed in our secondary- schools, which are the lifeblood of the Rugbv Union game in New Zealand. These boys are representing not only the Maori race, but the people of JSTew Zealand. Thanks to the wonderful stimulus of Western civilisation, the Maori is practically on the same basis as the European, and I can forecast that social subtleties which are now expected will ho understood by the Maori people in two or three generations. I am sure that these football tours serve to cement the already staunch friendship between Australia and New Zealand, and T api certain that whatever m"v happen in this part of the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand and Australia will stand shoulder to shoulder.” Mr Schmitt (New Zealand Representatives at Svdney). moved a vote of thanks to Alderman McMahon, and the team 1 gave a pewerful demonstration of the Haka.

Prior to their departure for Queensland to-night. the- Maori footballers practised on the cricket ground. They were also received Dv Alderman McMahon. on behalf of the Lord Mayor of S'vdnev who was indisposed. Tt is likely that the Maoris will receive a wet welcome in Queensland, where it. is not uncommon to have weeks of brilliant sunshine at 1 his time of the year. However, general rain is falling to-day.