SPORT IN SAMOA

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22964, 20 August 1936, Page 6

SPORT IN SAMOA

THE STRENUOUS PASTIMES KEEN COMPETITION AMONG CLUBS (Written by the Press Association's representative with the New Zealand Government Mission.) Sport lias a firm hold in Western Samoa. The pastimes of the people include golf, cricket, Soccer, Rugby, boxing, yachting, tennis, badminton, shooting and racing. Rivalry is keen and always in the best spirit. About 12 years ago there were as many as eight cricket teams in competition with one another, and some fine performances were recorded; Lack of grounds and material resulted in a falling off in the number of clubs, and for a period the game was in the doldrums. In 1932, however, it was given fresh life with the institution of annual matches against the men from visiting warships. Apia were the champions in 1932, and in the two following years honours went to Avele, the native Government school, coached by R. Nicol, a prominent Wellington Old Boys' footballer. Since 1933 no rival has succeeded in lowering the colours of the Apia representatives. Their most meritorious win was when they defeated a strong team from the H.M.S. Australia. The matches occupy one day only, and are therefore played in carefree style. A revival has taken place also in boxing, and fortnightly contests are held in the Tivoli Theatre. As some of the boys, particularly those from the Marist Club, receive expert tuition some splendid rounds are provided. The sport was given impetus a few years ago when the Hon. I. H. Carruthers presented a belt for the South Seas Championship. Immediately, W. Scanlon, a well-known Hawaiian heavy-weight, living in Apia, lodged a challenge, which was accepted by R. David, of Savaii. Both men went into training, and a packed house witnessed the fight. For the first few rounds Scanlon was more than a match for his opponent, who was twice on the verge of "dreamland." A great heart, however, kept David on his feet and he went on to win a popular victory by a narrow margin of points. Later, a team of boxers from American Samoa visited Apia, and was defeated in the majority of bouts. A return contest was arranged, eight representatives going over to Pago Pago, and again the Apia boys proved too good, losing only one contest. At present an enthusiast is sorting out the lads with the idea of having a champion in each grade. The New Zealand Boxing Association has promised assistance, and the future of the sport in Apia is assured. Rugby football has been played in Western Samoa for the past 15 years. As elsewhere, the interest is keener some seasons than others, but this year has been one of the peak

years. The season lasts from February to May, the hottest, stickiest and wettest parts of the year. Very few New Zealanders play in the competition, as they find the weather too exacting, but their services as coaches are eagerly availed of. Up to the end of 1935 there were three grades—A, B and C. Each grade competed for a championship cup, and in the senior division teams were . fielded by Vaiala, Lepea, Apia, Avele Old Boys and Malifa Old Boys. Vaiala was the most successful club team, a good deal of its success being due to the captain and coach, Alec Macdonald, brother of Angus Macdonald, a well-known Wellington representative. Alec is considered to be an eyen better player than Angus. In the B Grade Rugby competition the Marist Club has come to the fore. Four schools, Avele, Malifa, Ifi Ifi and Marist have been having some strenuous tussles, with the last named victors in the majority of games. During the 1935 season interest appeared to be waning, so it was decided to institute competition among teams from various business firms in the town. Several houses responded, and one of the best seasons in the history of the sport was experienced. A Referees' Association meets fortnightly, and its members receive every assistance from the New Zealand Referees' Association. The various Administrators have always taken a keen interest in the sport. The latest innovation is Soccer. At present registration is confined to the Europeans, and three teams are fielded.