RUGBY UNION

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 1, Issue 181, 24 March 1932, Page 6

RUGBY UNION

C. A.

CLARKE,

APPEAL FOR SUPPORT Sir, — On Wednesday, March 30, at 8 p.m. in St. Luke's Hall, the Rotorua Rngby Union will hold its annual meeting. As one of the old players and supporters of Rugby for many years, I make this appeal to all who can, to attend and help put the old game on a good footing. Of late many old players, like myself, have been content to stand down and leave a few enthusiasts to do the best they could. Those of us who can look baclc to the good old days on the football field, cannot but a'ealise that Rugby football is not the game it was, not only in Rotorua, but in many other centres. Senior football has deterioratad. This has, to my knowledge, been oxperienced before; where the old players have been hung on to until after they have done their dash, and the game from a spectator's point of view has become a scramble, with a lack of stamina and science. This is often caused by young improving players being overloolced and not given a chance in senior games, in which they would gain confidence and experience. It is not fair that these should be pitted against unfit players, who do nothing but bullock as is the case with -some old players. We have the material for good footballers, let us cater for them, and bring the game up to a standard that will warrant public support, and good gates. Let those of us who cannot give active, give moral support, this year and help those who have struggled to keep the good old Rugby fiag flying. Football is one of, if not the finest games in the world. We know how it stood to the boys at the Front. Played in the right spirit, it helps to build up the rising generation, physically and morally; helps to balance, teaehes self control and the ability to take knocks with a smile. It should bring opt the best that is in us and encourage a spirit of esprit de corps. Trusting the annual meeting will be an indication of the popularity and prosperity of the game for this and future vears. — I am. etc..

Life Member, R.R. Union.