“ALL BLACKS.”

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17528, 4 May 1925, Page 1

“ALL BLACKS.”

NAME NOT FOR FUTURE RUGBY TEAMS. “ OUR EMBLEM PIRATED.” The term "All Blacks,” as applied to New Zealand Rugby team?, is not likely to be used officially m connection with future teams. Theie has been no decision to this effect, but delegates to the annual meeting of the New Zealand Rugby Union last week were generally agreed that for the future Rugy combinations representing this Dominion should be known as New Zealand Rugby teams. Jn bringing the matter to the notice ul the delegates. Mr .T. Prendeviile, chairman of the Wellington Rugby Union, said that the name “All Blacks” originated with the 1905 team. The recent New Zealand team was also called the “All Blacks,” and since its return the question had been raised whether it was a proper name for New Zealand teams, “i think it is not,” he added. “The 1905 team adopted that name, and the last team followed it. Let it rest at that.” The all black jersey with the fern leaf has been the emblem of New Zealand for over thirty years, and it is considered, in Rugby' football circles that the sole right should be held for its use. The subject was discussed at the annual meeting of the New Zealand Rugby U nion, but on the question of obtaining a copyright there was a diversity of opinion among delegates. It was generally considered, however, that the uniform belonged to the New Zealand Rugby Union and to nobody else. “Our emblem has been pirated—l think we can safely caii it pirated,” remarked Mr J. Prendeviile, chairman of the Wellington Rugby Union, “i think that if we have no other power we should go to the Legislature and have it copyrignted.” It was pointed out in discussion that there were difficulties m regard to obtaining a copyright, but a decision was made that the Management Committee be authorised to take steps, through the Legislature if necessary, to have the New Zealand Rugby football uniform protected.