GIVING UP RUGBY

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 510, 13 November 1928, Page 1

GIVING UP RUGBY

J. T. SWAIN IN AUCKLAND ALL BLACK FRONT-RANKER “I am giving up Rugby; getting too old,” says J. T. Swain, All Black forward, who has been transferred from Napier to Auckland, and took up residence here a week ago. The possessor of a great record in international and inter-provincial Rugby, Swain will find it difficult to persuade Auckland clubs, which will compete eagerly for his services, that he has reached the retiring age. lie is 27, and has always been noted for his fine physical condition. During the past five or six years Swain has been one of the most consistent performers in New Zealand Rugby. He played for Wellington ■ from 1922 to 192.1, and had bad luck in missing the 1924 tour. Though he was emergency for New Zealand against N e w South Wales in 1923, it was only last year, when he was selected to go to South Africa, ———————J that he finally J. T. Swain won his New Zealand colours. In South Africa he was one of the most reliable forwards, playing in 15 games, including all four tests, and registering three tries. RICH IN HOOKERS In Ranfurly Shield football Swain proved a tower of strength to Hawke’s Bay when he moved there from Wellington in 1925. Fast in the open, the possessor of a line pair of hands, and a great toiler, he has been a prolific try-getter in big football. He is engaged in the soft goods business with the wholesale firm of Macky, Logan and Caldwell, and stated this morning that he would be travelling much of his time. Should he play in Auckland, local Rugby will be rich in class hookers, as Hadley, who partnered Swain in all four test matches in South Africa, is also here, along with B. Palmer, J. R. Hindenach and A. Fin layson.