CIVIC RECEPTION

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 52, 24 May 1927, Page 12

CIVIC RECEPTION

AUCKLAND’S WELCOME A civic reception was tendered to the Canadian footballers at the Auckland Town Hall yesterday. There was a good attendance of citizens in the council chamber, and the Canadians were heartily applauded when they filed in for the reception. The Mayor, Mr. G. Baildon, said that Auckland was delighted to be the first to welcome the visitors from our sister Dominion, particularly as it was tlie pioneer team from Canada. He recalled their brief appearance at Carlaw Park three seasons ago, on their way home from Australia, when honours were easy. The public here was, perhaps. more familiar with other codes, but Soccer had made great strides, as all clean manly sports would in New Zealand. He was sure that so good a team of clean sports as the Canadians would be warmly welcomed right through their tour, and on behalf of the citizens of Auckland he wished them “good health, good games, and good luck.” Telegrams of welcome from kindred sports were read, and other good wishes were extended by Mr. Varney, chairman of the New Zealand Football Association Council, Mr. Croft, Canadian Trade Commissioner, and Mr. Andrew Menzies, chairman of the Auckland Football Association Management. Mr. Menzies raised a laugh by remarking that however triumphant their tour South might be the real test would be when they met Auckland at its conclusion. Alderman J. Adam, manager of the Canadian team, returned thanks for the splendid reception accorded them in Auckland. They had anticipated a royal welcome from the sheaf of wireless messages received from the Prime Minister and others as the ship neared New Zealand. Mr. F. Crawley, captain, also replied on behalf of his team, and the pleasure which the prospects here gave them. The team sang “O Canada,” and “The Maple Leaf” in robust style, their vocal efforts being loudly applauded, and they were accorded three hearty cheers.