RECREATION OUTLOOK

Wairarapa Times-Age, 28 April 1943, Page 4

RECREATION OUTLOOK

FACILITIES AND TRAINED LEADERS. Shortage of sports equipment and the occupation of a number of playgrounds (particularly in Wellington and Auckland) foi’ military purposes were discussed at the recent meeting of the National Council of Physical Welfare and Recreation. It was mentioned that the matter of sports equipment, especially balls for tennis and other games, had been brought under the notice of the Ministry of Supply, which was actively sympathetic, and it was anticipated that an improvement would be effected as soon as possible. The question of grounds was also receiving attention. An effort was being made to provide additional gymnasia in the four main centres. Wai’ conditions hindered the achievement of ideals in the recreational field, but preparations could be made for a great extension of necessary activities later on. The Council and the Department would help in campaigns for community centres throughout the Dominion. There would be a mobilisation of all available enthusiasm and energy to achieve the stated purpose of the Act: “To provide for the deevlopment of facilities for, and the encouragement of. physical training, exercise, sport and recreation, and to facilitate the establishment of centres for social activities related thereto.”

The Council recognised that more and more trained leaders would be required as time went on because proper progress could not be made without well-qualified leadership in which a winning personality had to be combined with physical expertness. A committee was appointed to report on the best means of assuring a continuous supply of well-trained leaders. It was urged that the value of children’s playgrounds would be greatly increased if they were under the supervision of trained leaders. It was stated that the British National Fitness Council, which was formed in 1935, “fell down flat, because of lack of trained leaders.”