HOCKEY UMPIRES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 27 April 1939, Page 11

HOCKEY UMPIRES

ANNUAL REPORT. LETHARGY CONDEMNED. The following is the annual report of the Wairarapa Hockey Umpires’ Association: —It gives me great pleasure to present to you the annual report of the Wairarapa Hockey Umpires' Association. During last season there did not appear to be the enthusiasm among members that this most important department of the game of hockey deserves. Only one ordinary meeting was held although many were called. This state of things is definitely dangerous and. indeed, most disappointing to those occupying official positions. I would, at this stage, recommend members who intend to be present at the annual meeting to take stock of their apathy, and be wide awake to their responsibilities. If this is not done I can foresee this very vital part of hockey being abandoned, and a reversion back to the old system of “rafl'erty rules,” which would undoubtedly be a retrograde step indeed. I ask that all members pull their weight so as to make this all important part of the game, as it should be, the pivot of first class hockey. Financially our season ended with a small credit balance, due to a donation by the Women’s Association and another by one of our vice-presidents, Mr C. Cole, both of which were much appreciated. Actually it would be a generous acf if all clubs would agree to a small levy each year to enable this part of the game to function freely and unfettered. Mr G. Maloney (Greytown) was successful in gaining his theory examination for the NewZealand badge and our congratulations are due to him. In conclusion I

would stress the point that all umpires attend the annual meeting and also prospective candidates. Both men and women and senior players who are sufficiently interested, as it is only by their co-operaotion that the Hockey Umpires’ Association can function successfully.” The report is signed by A. N. Stubbings (hon secretary) and W. Harding (president).