UNABLE TO TOUR

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23407, 25 July 1939, Page 14

UNABLE TO TOUR

MANAGER WITHDRAWS NEW ZEALAND LEAGUE TEAM MR. CAMPBELL'S ILL-HEALTH VACANCY FILLED TO-MORROW Acting upon the advice of his own doctor, together with that of other Auckland medical men, Mr. G. Grey Campbell has withdrawn from the position of co-manager of the New Zealand League football team,which will leave for a toiir of England on Thursday. Mr. Campbell, whoiis chairman of the Auckland Rugby League, had been appointed business manager and Mr. •T. A. Redwood, chairman of the New Zealand Council, was chosen as team manager.

In spite of rumours to the contrary, Mr. Campbell said he had made his decision entirely on account of health reasons. He had recently had a se\erc attack *of influenza, and the doctors were unanimously of the opinion that it would not be in the best interests of his health to undertake such a strenuous tour at the present time. He had reluctantly, therefore, notified the New Zealand Council accordingly in writing. Mr. Campbell said he desired to emphasise the fact that there had been no friction between himself and the council. On the other hand, he had received every consideration from the parent body. Mr. Campbell's resignation was received at a special meeting of the New Zealand Council yesterday afternoon. It was decided to immediately communicate with the various affiliated bodies asking for nominations tp fill the vacancy, the selected co-manager to sail for England not later than August 8. The chairman, Mr. Redwood, said it mav be possible to find someone who would be able to leave with the team on Thursdav. From a personal point of view. Mr. Redwood said he was most disappointed that Mr. Campbell had had to withdraw, as he was looking loiward to them both having a pleasant time on tour. The Auckland Rugby League subsequent! v met and agreed to nominate Mr. R. Doble for the position of assistant manager. Mr. Doble represents this body on the Jsew Zealand Council. .

PLAYER-COACH OFFER SUGGESTION FOR NEPIA COUNCIL REJECTS PROPOSAL PRESENTATIONS TO PLAYERS An offer of £2OO was made to tho New Zealand Rugby League Council yesterday through Mr. J. Rukiitai, a member of that body, by a keen supporter of tho code, for the purpose of sending G. Nepta to England as plnyoreoach of the New Zealand team. Mr. Rukutai stated that Napia was still playing good football and his knowledge of both English and New Zealand conditions would bo very valuable to the team. The New Zealand Council considered the matter vesterday and decided that, at such a late hour, it was unable to accept the offer. H. Mataira, a member of the rsew Zealand team, was given a presentation bv members of the staff of Produce Markets, Limited, Mr. Hill wishing him a successful tour. J. Smithi one of the fullbacks, received a presentation of a well-filled wallet from the staff of the Self Help Company, Limited.