FLASHBACK TO SWIMIMNG

Chronicle (Levin), 7 April 1949, Page 7

FLASHBACK TO SWIMIMNG

"Freestyle")

Success Of Waning Season Analysed

. (By

What helps make success? In answering this question, I will review some of ihe observations I have mafle during what must surely be described as one of the Levin Amateur Swimming and Lifesaving Ciub's most successfui years. The points I will deal with have to do with organisation, administration, support, membership and all ihat goes to make a successfui club — as undoubtedly the Levin body has itself proved to be. Firstly, the administration, which is the source of power behind any organisation, must be strong, fearless and optimistic, with original ideas, combined with co-operation and cohesion for the smooth running of the ciub's affairs. 5 One of the officials in particular who has contributed in no small measure towards this year's success is the club secretary, Miss Feggy Wills, who was on the job all the time. Secondly, come the numerous supporters and all those who help out at any time with various jobs, those people who make their cars avaiab.e for transport, those who say "Yes" when approached to perform a particular function and the Press who give space in the paper for these notes. All these are inseparable to the ciub's success. Thirdly, there is the large general membership, which comprises some very loyal and willing members. There were some members who resp mded well to their training instructions. This in turn encouraged the trainers to greater efforts— and to make available much more of their valuable time. It is an object lesson, and it must be apparent to all who examine the results, that those members who worked hardest reaped the heaviest harvests of success. In all the club is the possessor of five Manawatu championship tities this season. In fact I cannot recall the club ever having won a title previously, although it has been knocking at the door on numerous occasions. The club is proud of all its representatives, for their good behaviour and sportsmariship on tour has been remarked upon at all times. It is also very proud of its title holders, but it Should be remembered that the individuals concerned were also swimming for the club. It has come to the writer's ears that one or two were disappointed at not reeeiving a cup. I take this opportunity to stress the importa'nce of the honour of holding a title. The next and little less imnortant point is the certificate

awarded and the entering of thej ' name on the centre records and in the N.Z.A.S.A. handbook. The capr ture of a centre championship title is no mean feat when taking into account the size of the distriet, which comprises 13 clubs, although two were inactive this season through unfortunate circumstances), and' the population of which is around 45,000. Also to he taken into consideration is the fact that today competitive swimming is more popular than ever before. It is worth recording that in all 14 club carnivals were held this season and only two offered trophies. Entries in all carnivals were records and confirms thr writer's opinion that most swimmers are content to compete for the love of the sport. From the aaministrative side these carnivals are more satisfactory to control. May I now take this opportunity to round off these notes for the season by offering my congratulations to all title holders, and to wish all swimmers and officials a pleasant recess. '