SEDDON SHIELD

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 6 August 1928, Page 7

SEDDON SHIELD

(To the Editor) ! Sir,—Shades of Horatio kelson! Are we, in this fair city, like that famous Admi&l, “one,.eyed?” I am afraid;'we are as regards this Shield controversy for, on examining the history of the Seddoh Shield, as shown on the: programme distributed at the last Shield game, I find that from 1907 to 1922 Nelson travelled on two occasions, and roughly during the 21 years’ existence of the" Shield they have possibly travelled on five occasions. If the other unions had acted similarly, the Shield would have been forgotten long iigo, but the programme indicates that the Coast and Buller teams have been very active though not oversuccessful, which further impresses one that their sporting spirit is good. . They have travelled and their supporters have spent money freely. in both Nelson and Blenheim, and judging by the remarks of the commercial folk, have been instrumental in bringing £IOOO a match to Nelson, yet at the mere thought of taking a Shield game to Westport, there is an outcry from what appears to be a few. greedy individuals whose only “sporting pastime” is grabbing dollars. The commercial aspect completely submerges the true sporting features of Rugby. I do not think the actual sporting public are aggrieved: I am afraid the propaganda is from those in the “commercial” aspect of the position, for I find on enquiry that the football public have.a good rep. programme this year. We have already had two rep. games and I understand Otago, Soutffland, Wairarapa and Golden Bay are. yet to come, and if successful against Buller,. whether at Nelspn or Westport,, then Marlborough will play, and possibly Golden Bay. Now, sir, the football fans have not much- to complain about, and neither have our greedy ones.. / , ..... I know nothing of the legal aspect of the position, hut surely all true sports will agree that the motive prompting the action to assist a weaker union is commendable.

Re the £4BO collected in 1922, may I suggest -t, fiat a comprehensive statement and balance sheet as to expenditure'be published. It would make interesting reading for all Rugbyites.—l am, etc., WEST COASTER. Nelson, 4th August. ..