BADMINTON

Southland Times, Issue 23182, 24 April 1937, Page 19

BADMINTON

MORE PLAYERS THIS

YEAR

(By “Observer”)

Clubs have now more or less settled down to usual routine, and are sorting out likely combinations for match play. Most country clubs have opened and competition matches are due to start tonight week. Gore opens on Wednesday night, when a big turn-out is expected. Britannia has at last adopted the “whistle” system. Last season _ there was considerable agitation for its introduction, but nothing was done, and players were left to manage their own sets, and to play until they felt inclined to desist or they collapsed from sheer exhaustion. There is no doubt that this step will be appreciated by all members, and will give newcomers and those who are keen to improve their game an opportunity of playing with experienced partners whose advice will materially improve their game. ' A newcomer to Invercargill is E. Barron who has joined up with Britannia. Barron was co-holder of the doubles title in Dunedin two years ago and is starting well this season. J. Clarkson is turning out again, and is wielding as crafty a racket as ever. Others who are taking part this year after having a spell for a season are R. Hanan and K. Mac Ewan.

Britannia will probably field two A grade teams this season, and if Invercargill again fields two this will avoid a bye in the A grade competition. Players will welcome the suggestion put forward by the Invercargill Club that showers should be installed at Zealandia Hall. Such an addition would receive the whole-hearted support of all the clubs, and it is hoped that the association will assist. Players have already remarked on the improved heating of the hall, which on match nights last season left much to be desired. Memberships continue to soar. Invercargill tops the list with nearly 120. Britannia has reached its century and St. John’s and AI Saint’s have increased their numbers.