Association Football.

Free Lance, Volume I, Issue 38, 23 March 1901, Page 20

Association Football.

The annual meeting of the Rovers Club, held during last week, was a most successful one. Several new members were elected, and several players new to the city have decided to join the ranks of the club. It will start the season therefore hopefully. It is a matter for general regret that Mr. J. Paton, the genial captain of last season's eleven, cannot compete in this season's sport owing to business engagements. His absence from the half-back division of his club, and from Association football in general, will be much missed. The club carries a substantial credit balance from last season, and this will form the nucleus of a fund to defray contingency expenses, which are sure to be incurred in the coming season. The maintenance of club elevens is a heavy item, and if the treasurer of any club does not keep his members up to the mark, he may find himself in an awkward predicament. Have you noticed how the amount of outstanding subscriptions bulks up on the average club's balance-sheet? Now, I think it. is both unfair and unsportsmanlike for any member to enjoy the season's sport — and football, after all, is the cheapest of out-door sports — at the expense of his fellow-members. But the treasurer of a club has a means of indemnifying his club, and that is by posting the defaulters, thus debarring them from taking part in any reciprocal sport, until the amount owing is paid. But generally, if the player is a good man, the treasurer's hands are tied. The report of the Rovers Football Club makes special mention of its president (Mr. J. W. Abott), who has donated trophies and cash towards the funds of the club, and, in recognition of his generosity, the club, besides reelecting him to the office of president, made him an honorary life member. He well deserves the honour. The Rovers have postponed their election of a secretary. A position like this is not the easiest to fill in a club, and, as it is the most important office also, a wise and prudent choice is necessary. It is a matter for regret that Mr. M. Fraser did not allow his name to he nominated as a delegate from the club to the Wellington Football Association, as his experience and useful advice will be greatly missed on the council of the^ W.F.A. Still, it is likely an office on the council will be offered him, and, in the interests of Association football, it is to be hoped he will accept. The Diamond Football Club have appointed their officers, and transacted preliminary business, for the coming season. The report terms the last season "the most successful yet held."

The club scored signal successes in. winning all championships — the senior shield, chanty and challenge cuds. A good many of the most notable players in the senior eleven of this club will be absent from the field m the coming season. Amongst them will be the follow ing — Mouat, Collins, Connell, Barclay, and last but not least, Taylor.