DUNCAN’S APPOINTMENT.

Gisborne Times, Volume XIX, Issue 150, 8 July 1905, Page 2

DUNCAN’S APPOINTMENT.

THE UNION’S DEFENCE. IFer Press Association.) Wellington, last night. At a meeting of the New Zealand Union to-night, it was decided to place the Union’s views in regard to the appointment of Duncan as coach to the team proceeding to England before the affiliated unions. A circular letter to the unions was accordingly drafted. In this the union states that an assistant to the manager was after mature consideration deemed essential, Duncan was asked if he would be prepared to go as coach Bnbjeob to the direction and oontrol of the manager in all things, and he consented, whioh virtually means that Duncan will not only be coach, but he will be at the manager’s call to assist generally in looking after the interests of members of the team, and in any other oapacity the manager may direct: The fact that Duncan can, if it becomes absolutely necessary, don the jersey on occasion, and in some manner make np for the absence of the twenty-sixth player, was also taken into consideration in makiog this particular appointment. The committee feel that it is of paramount importance to have someone available to closely'observe tbo tactics of opponents, jf necessary by advanoe visits to various centres, and to advise as to introduction of frequent and effective changes in the style of play to be adopted. The committee feel that they have chosen the best man available. The committee point out that the liability they would be subjeot. to were they to caooel the appointment is such that they cannot accept, and that therefore in the event of the affiliated unions deciding that a coach shall not be sent, tho committee have no option but to take that decision as a vote of want of confidence, and to have the responsibility of cancelling’ the appointment put upon those who desire to accept it.