RUGBY IN AN AIR TRAINING CAMP

Southland Times, Issue 24446, 28 May 1941, Page 7

RUGBY IN AN AIR TRAINING CAMP

LETTER FROM SOUTHLAND REPRESENTATIVE Interesting comment on the life in an air training camp in Canada is contained in a letter from Leading Aircraftman A. G. Sutherland to Mr A. J. Hamilton, secretary of the Southland Rugby Union. Leading Aircraftman Sutherland is none other than Alex Sutherland, a brilliant wing threequarter, who was recognized as one of Southland’s certainties for the South African tour which was cancelled because of the war. Leading Aircraftman Sutherland writes from Winnipeg:

“I suppose this season will see a lot of new faces lining up on Rugby Park. It will be a great day when I am again able to don the old blue and black jersey and help Invercargill to get back the Galbraith Shield. But we are fortunate in that we will be able to get a game here, for although the people here do not think much of our national game there are about four club teams and with the ones that we can field from the station we should be able to have a few games. Our hut has a number of promising players, several played provincial football in New Zealand, and with a little practice we should give the opposing side a busy time.” Leading Aircraftman Sutherland goes on to say that ice hockey is the national game in Canada and that it is without a doubt the fastest game in the world. It is very exciting and has to be seen to be anpreciated. The Canadians are wonderful skaters and have great ball (puck) control. Sometimes it is impossible to follow it. Men’s basketball is also a popular game. “The hospitality of the people is wonderful,” he says. “Every week-end people ring up wanting to entertain us. There is a millionaire here who always entertains two or three of us. He is the biggest racehorse owner in Canada and I am hoping to get some good information about the races to be held next month.”