TENNIS.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVI, Issue 4904, 18 November 1925, Page 2

TENNIS.

OPENING OF PAEROA COURTS.

LARGE GATHERING TAKE PART.

The last of the summer sports was formally commenced on Saturday afternoon, when the third . official opening of the Paeroa Layvn Tennis Club’s courts took place. Although the sky was overcast and a cold westerly wind prevailed a l ' large number of people attended, including visitors- from Hikutaia, Netherton, and Waikincs and no doubt the threatening weather deterred other neighbouring clubs from being represented. In addressing the gathering, the president, Mr R. B. Penlington, after extending a. hearty welcome to the visitors, said that the courts were not in as good order as the club had wished, but that fact was mainly due to the unseasonable weather that had recently been experienced. How-ever, the club confidently expected to make the courts second to none as regarded playing conditions before the season had advanced very far. He .then called on the patron, Mr W. Manshall, to open the courts. In a hiippy speech Mr' Marshall congratulated the club on the progress it had made, and commented favourably bn the many improvements effected since last season. The enthusiasm of the members, was most remarkable, and a glance round the courts and their environs showed a striking example of what could be done by co-operation and a willingness to . work. It was pleasing to learn that the club was receiving liberal support, and that the young people in particular were taking up the game enthusiastically. Outdoor sport was neebssary to the welfare of tjie community, and with the facilities- afforded in Paeroa. almost all branches of sport were within the reach of everyone. Mr Marshall mentioned that" the .Borough Council, was negotiating for the purchase of three and a-half acres of land adjoining the tennis court to be set aside as a municipal reserve. He looked forward to the future when a portion of that area would be utilised as a bowling green and provision made for other forms of sport. In conclusion he said that he hoped the club would enjoy a profitable and pleasurable season, and meet with every success. 1 Mrs Manshall then drove the first ball and the .courts were declared open for the 1925-26 season.

Under the able management, of the club captain, Mr H. Thorp, sets were arranged, and the four courts were fully occupied until late in the evening

Afternoon tea was dispensed by the lady members, and it is safe to say that Saturday afternoon will, be regarded as one of the most enjoyable openings yet held by the club.