LAWN TENNIS.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LIV, Issue 13797, 31 October 1908, Page 5

LAWN TENNIS.

NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION. SECEDES FROM AUSTRALASIAN COUNCIL. < Par Press Association , WELLINGTON, Oct. 30. About thirty delegates attended the , annual meeting of tho New Zealand , Lawn Tennis Association to-night. Mr . Malcolm Ross presided. He said the New Zealand Association had originated the proposal that Australasia should compete as a nation for the Davis Cup.. The result was that the Cup was now held by Australia and New Zealand, and other nations would have to fight for it on Australasian soil. "Notwithstanding our lead in tho matter,' he continued, "wo have been cavalierly , treated, especially in the matter of re- ; presentation, by tho Australian Associa- J tion. The idea, therefore, is that Now : Zealand should in these contests have ( tho status of a nation and be able to ' enter its own team in the contests. Canada and South Africa are recognised as separate nations, and there is absolutely no reason why New Zealand with a greater playing strength than* the other Australasian States should not be placed on the same footing." He spoke approvingly of the decision to adopt a new ball, which, was excellent in every respect. Most sports wore threatened > with the danger of professionalism or | semi-professionalism. What they should ; desire most was not the thousands of onlookers but the healthy participation of tho young men and women in amateur sports. It was resolved that the Association resign from tho Australasian Association after the 'coming Davis Cup competition. The delegates considered tho proposed new rules in committee. The election of officers was postponed.