TECHNICAL OLD BOYS’ RUGBY CLUB

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 84, Issue 71, 26 March 1940, Page 3

TECHNICAL OLD BOYS’ RUGBY CLUB

REVIEW OF PAST SEASON THE ANNUAL REPORT "Though the 1939 season was not as successful from a winning point oi view as have been some other seasons, it nevertheless contributed much that will be worth remembering by all club members,” states the annual report of the Wanganui Technical College Old Boys’ Rugby Football Club to be presented at the annual meeting to-morrow night. "Regarding games played, no more enjoyable club fixtures have taken place for many years, and "club I spirit” continued its improvement to a state approaching perfection. ‘The past season will remain for ever in our memories for two particular reasons—the tragic passing ol Maurice Guy in August and the Declaration of War in September. One of the most popular and unassuming boys to ever join the club, Morrie Guy promised to attain the very highest rung on the sporting ladder. To his sorrowing family our heart-felt sympathy is again extended. ‘The outbreak of war has caused a drop in our membership, as will be seen from the following enlistments of active club members:—J. Groshinski and J. Phillips (Ist. Echelon) and E. F. Laws, T. Rowe (2nd. Echelon); Air Force: P. Pritchard, G. A. Delves, E. A. McCormick, J. Clay, W. Cairncross and P. Takarangi. Several other club members have enlisted and will be going before the season is very far advanced. When one considers the very young average age of members, the enlistments reflect much credit. To all who have joined up, and to those who will follow, we extend our best wishes, with sincere hopes for a quick return to the happy days of such a short time ago. "Transfers, on promotion, as usual levied heavy toll, and valued members we farewelled during the season included:—F. Thompson, Phil Blakely, M. Breed, G. Couchman, B. Carmody and J. Waters. “Congratulations are extended to three of our very active members who were married during the summer— Alan Kjoss, Senior XV skipper; Phil Luke, club captain; and Jim Briscoe, senior player and old rep. who came out of a well-earned retirement tc> help the club out of a hole. “The season commenced with the annual Eastbourne Easter match—played in 1939 on the Hutt Recreation Ground as part of their celebrations. An enjoyable game ended in a draw, 9 all. Wonderful hospitality was dispensed by our hosts, and we very much regret that they were unable to come up as usual this Easter. However, this is a pleasure deferred, and we will make up for it in 12 months’ time. To Eastbourne Football Club

we extend all the best for the coming season. “AH grade teams performed very creditably. The seniors had their usual share of injuries, but were always hard to beat, and considering they fielded perhaps the youngest senior team in the club’s history, are , to be congratulated. The junior were . unfortunate to miss the honours in their grade by a point, but retained the Wilson Cup. Full-back, Keith Grant, in scoring over 100 points, i mainly off his wonderful boot, had much to do with their success. The Thirds were always enthusiastic, and though no match for Pirates’ champion team, were entitled to the position of runners-up in their grade. “The club coaches are to be congratulated and we hope that Stan Ambrose, Joe Ward and Phil Luke , will be on deck again in 1940. The senior team cup, awarded by our very ardent and appreciated supporters, Mr. and Mrs. Ireland, was won by P. Takarangi. To all our supporters— , and they are legion—our thanks are given, and we promise to do our utmost to repay their much appreciated support during 1940. To the school authorities the club wishes to acknowledge the help that has been extended at every opportunity, particularly with regard to training facilities. It is to be hoped that members ; realise how fortunate they are in this 1

respect. To the Press, St. John Ambulance and referees the club records its thanks for impartial treatment at all times. To Wanganui and Old Boys’ Football Club heartiest congratulations for playing the best club football seen for many years, and deservedly winning the senior championship.”