RUBBLE ON GROUNDS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29502, 2 May 1961, Page 15

RUBBLE ON GROUNDS

Possibility Of Injury

Concern at the possibility of serious injury to players because of rubble on hockey fields, and the legal repercussions which might follow, was expressed by Mr E. D. Bennett at a meeting of the management committee of the Canterbury Hockey Association last evening. Mr Bennett said he picked up two pieces of bone off Williamson Park before a game began and heard from a player who had thrown two broken bottle necks off the field. He was concerned that any player might suffer injury as the result of the material lying on the playing area and at the claim for damages which might follow, said Mr Bennett.

“The claim could come back on all members personally. We must insure ourselves against legal liability,” he said.

Although all the pieces of rubble could be picked off the surface, there was always some which worked itself through to the top of the ground, said Mr Bennett He urged that the legal position be investigated in order that the association be protected from any claims. After some discussion, Mr Bennett was elected by the committee to investigate the matter and report his findings to members at a later date.

Umpiring Problems Criticism of the failure of the University senior reserve umpire to appear to referee an undcr-16 game on April 22 between New Brighton and Christchurch Boys’ High School, was expressed in a letter from the New Brighton club.

Referring to the letter, Mr A. MeCrorie said the association had the same “teething trouble” with clubs every year and suggested a fine under such circumstances would probably be "more effective.” Previously it had been the custom to deduct a point from the offending club. It was decided that in future a club would be fined 5s after the first Saturday of competition games, should it not provide a player to umpire. Selectors

The following nominations for Canterbury selectors were approved:—Under 16: Messrs F. Richardson, M. Hall. Fourth grade: Messrs E. Ambler, L. Smith ico-select-ors). Third grade: Mr L. Cox. Senior reserve: Mr R. Peacock.