HOCKEY.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19902, 23 September 1926, Page 4

HOCKEY.

By Wagges. It is now definitely known that the South Canterbury team will not be coming to Dunedin this season, and consequently tho senior programme of matches is concluded. The only match remaining to be played is the final of the junior cup competition. Sticks and boots may now be packed away for six months, but before doing so I would advise all players to oil these parts of their equipment thoroughly. They will thus find them in good condition when they require them for use again. It was intended to pky off the final of the Junior Grade competition last Saturday, but the wintry conditions prevailing caused a postponement. It was feared that the grounds would be unplayable on Saturday, so the Grounds Committee decided early to put the match off until next Saturday. 1 understand that both teams are training for this important fixture, and expect to give a good display. As it is the only match to be played, might 1 here suggest that it be arranged to commence early in the afternoon, say 2 o’clock, so that players and officials may be free later to witness a part, at least, of the final big Rugby match at Garish rook 7 Last Saturday was the only occasion this season when hockey players were able to show that they are also willing to support kindred sports. After listening to remarks and comments made by some players on referees’ rulings, 1 have Come to the conclusion that the average player—whether senior or junior—has but a passing acquaintance with the wording of the rules. A better understanding would tend to uplift the standard of play. Ono player recently suggested that he is entitled to “knock on” with his pads. Rule 12 reads, inter alia, as follows; "The ball may not be picked up, carried, kicked, thrown, or knocked on or back, except with the stick.” Others have a very hazy idea of offside, and, through ignorance, question the rulings of referees. From observations over the past few months 1 am convinced that the players have not such an intimate association with the printed rules or their application as have most of the gentlemen who have freely and willingly given their services in controlling games. These loyal supporters deserve all the praise and thanks that the players can extend to them. As there is so very little or interest now in this branch of sport, these notes must necessarily be brief, and next weeks paragraphs will be the last for the season. Unfortunately, no rulings have been received from the New Zealand Referees’ Association on several points submitted. They may be available for opening remarks in these columns next year, and help to give the 1927 season a good kick-off.