RUGBY FOOTBALL

Manawatu Standard, Volume L, Issue 75, 24 February 1930, Page 9

RUGBY FOOTBALL

PREPARING FOR THE ENGLISHMEN. USHERING IN THE SEASON. Rugby enthusiasts will be required to get into training exceptionally early this senson and summer activities will have hardly concluded before the winter season is ushered in. No date has as yet been fixed for the opening of the new season locally, but in view of the fact that Manawhenua’s engagement with tiie British team is set down at an early date' in the itinerary, next month will find locnl clubs setting their houses in order and the players who strike form early will have, perforce, to be considered in the selection of the fifteen to do duty against the overseas visitors. THE ATHLETIC CLUB. The Athletic Club has already set the ball rolling by the preparation of its annual report and the following review of last season’s activities will be presented before the members in due course:—After a fairly successful season in 1928 the club held high hopes for a still better season in 1929, but these hopes were not fully realised, inasmuch as owing to lack of numbers we had to withdraw the third grade team and carry on with only the senior team which was strong numerically throughout the season. < Not once did the team enter the field at short strength. However, they acquited themselves very creditably, finishing well up on the championship Ladder and gaining many notable victories. Several of the players gained representative honours* It is with regret wo report that quite a few member were placed on the bank through injuries sustained on the field. Only one dance function was held during the yenr, and this was not quite the success expected owing to the numerous counter attractions. Financially the club experienced the best season for many years, and your committee have pleasure in reporting a substantial credit balance at the bank. One thing worthy of specinl mention was the way the playing members met their obligations by paying their subscriptions. There is a rumour afloat of an amalgamation with another town club who have not as yet been sufficiently strong enough to enter a senior team in the competitions. If this eventuates, the club should" profit considerably and should rise to the occasion by leading the other clubs home first. We have to thank Mr McHerron who coached our senior team and who looked after our interests generally. In conclusion, wo can only hope that the coming season will be one that we can look forward to ih the hope of improving our position in the Rugby field of Manawatu.”