NOT ALL BEER AND SKITTLES

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 73, 17 June 1927, Page 6

NOT ALL BEER AND SKITTLES

BOUQUETS OR BRICKS FOR SPORTS OFFICIALS The lot of a handicapper in any branch of sport is. to say the least of it, an unenviable one. No matter how efficiently he may carry out his duties, the unfortunate official is the butt for the dissatisfied and disgruntled, of which, as long as the world revolves on its axis, there will always be found a number connected with every branch of sport or recreation. NONE PERFECT It would be superfluous to suggest that handicappers are perfect, but it is sportsmanlike, at least, to admit that those who take up the important and responsible position of adjuster, do so imbued with a spirit of justice and fair play, and a desire to obtain the very best results, that will give satisfaction to all concerned. No matter how careful a handicapper may be in the execution of his duties, mistakes will admittedly creep in, but if those who feel aggrieved at any such errors

would remember that “to err is human, to forgive divine,” there would often be less heartburning caused, through unwarranted and caustic criticism levelled at the unfortunate servant of all and sundry. SELECTORS AND REFEREES Handicappers in every branch and department of sport, and under this heading selectors of various recreative organisations, and referees, can be included, have all experienced, at some time or other, the biting edge of the critics’ dart. No one occupying such a position should be thin-skinned and it is reasonable to assume that handicappers, selectors and referees ; who know their business welcome fair criticism and find- it [helpful to their work. AXE TO GRIND Such critics are to be approved of, but it is the cricitc with the “axe "to grind” that proves usually to be the fly in the ointment. These “sports” often rush in at the heat of the moment with a grievance, which in many instances prove imaginary, and criticise the official whether he be handicapper, selector or umpire, in a manner that does not redound to their credit, and is certainly not in the best interest of sport generally. No matter in what sphere of recreation or sport we may be engaged or interested, whether racing, trotting, football, hockey, athletics, etc., it is always as well to remember that the handicappers, selectors or referees make what they consider the correct adjustment or decision, and while not infallible, do their best to arirve at a satisfactory solution of the problems set them. TRUE SPOFITING SPIRIT All cannot be expected to see eye to eye in such matters and differences of opinion will arise ancl grievances will be ventilated, and if this is done in the true sporting spirit, permeated with tlie desire to reach a higher standard of efficiency all round, then criticism will prove of mutual benefit to officials, sportsmen and the public, who after all play U very prominent part in the success of any sportive pastime. NOT YET BORN If it will only be remembered that the “person has not yet been born that can give satisfaction to everyone,” and that handicappers, selectors and referees have not yet “walked the water,” critics will adopt less vigorous measures when finding fault with adjustments or decisions. When an official has been “weighed in the balance and found wanting,” there is justification for harsh methods, but while the work is being carried on satisfactorily, as it appears to be generally in this district in the various departments, any slight defects might be dealt with in a reasonable, amicable and conciliatory manner. A little more consideration in such questions would undoubtedly save a lot of unnecessary trouble and worry.