DEATH AT 76

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23114, 12 August 1938, Page 15

DEATH AT 76

MR. JOHN ARNEIL GREAT RUGBY RECORD PROMINENCE AS CRICKETER One of the greatest supporters of ■Rugby football in Auckland, Mr. John Arneil, who during the past GO years lias had a distinguished record both as a player and an administrator, died suddenly at his home in Heme Bay yesterday at the age of 7G years. With his passing a link is severed with the earliest days of sport in the province. Born in India in 1862, Mr. Arneil was the son of the late Mr. John Arneil, with whom he came to New Zealand in 1864. He was educated at St. Paul's School and the Auckland Grammar School and was married to Miss Emily Caradus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Caradus, in 1891. Mr. Arneil joined the firm of Arthur Heather, which later became Heather, Roberton, Limited, in 1880. He became managingdirector of the firm later, retiring from the position in 1933. He is survived by his wife, three sons and one daughter. A contemporary of the famous R. Whiteside, Mr. Arneil first gained prominence in Rugby football as a member of the Ponsonb.y team, and in tho years 1880 to 1887 he was chosen in Auckland representative sides. Although his original position was in the tlireequarter line, lie ultimately became Auckland's leading wing-forward and one of the finest exponents of dribbling at a time when there were many outstanding players in this department of the game. He was a member of Auckland teams which defeated the touring New South Wales side in 1882.

It was on the administrative side, however, that Mr. Arneil gave his greatest service to Rugby football. He was a member of the management board of the Auckland Rugby Union from 1883 to 1892, while from 1890' to 1900 ho filled the position of selector. Recognised as a fine referee, he was given control of a number of matches in which overseas teams participated. He was in charge of two of the games played in Auckland by the 1888 British team. Elected to the vice-presidency of the Auckland union in 190-1, he held this position for a number of years before being appointed president of the New Zealand union. Then from 1915 to 1935 he held the position of president of the Auckland body, finally being appointed vice-patron, a position ho held up to the time of his death. Cricket was another sport which attracted Mr. Arneil's interest, and in which he Avon Auckland representative honours. Ho played for Auckland against the touring Australian eleven in 1881 and the following year played against Shrewsbury's English side. With Mr. D. Hay, he shared the distinction of having captained Auckland teams at both Rugby and cricket.