Rugby

The wisdom of commencing Rugby Trials early in March was stressed when apart from 20 minutes of Junior trials, the programme on Saturday, 4 March was cancelled owing to weather conditions.

The attendance was poor and it must be remembered that the competition will start in four Saturdays time. Organised pre-season training is held at the Boyd-Wilson field each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout March - so Use these sessions to run off accumulated lethargy!

The brief spell of Junior trials did have encouraging aspects - Peter Howman showed that his reputation as a strong-running attacking winger is Justified. Last year's front row from New Plymouth Boy's High School 1st XV (Bruce McAllum, Barry Price end Alan Ormrod) will prove formidable opposition to other dub sides.

Some of the Senior trialists indulged in a not too social game of "touch-rugby". Mick Bremner must surely take satisfaction from two of the dubs' recruits - Rick Green and Alex Mathieson, formerly of Canterbury.

Most of last year's Senior 1st squad should be available this season al-though aspirants for inclusion in the. 1972 side will have every opportunity to show their abilities in forthcoming trials.

In selecting the Senior 2nd Squad. Derek Barton's main problem would be who to omit. It is most interesting that so many members of last year's talented Junior 1st team are to be trialists for the Clubs' 2nd XV;

From the Club's viewpoint it is satisfying to learn that many players from the 1971 Under 19 teams will be trialists - 10 members of the 1971 A side were selected to play for Wellington and, in addition, the team was the top side in its Division. The B side overcame difficulties with outstanding team spitit in 1971 and players from this team are certain to press thier claims vigorously.

Team spirit is a vital element in any side's record and, because of this rumours regarding non-availability of certain Junior 2nd players of 1971 are disappointing. No rugby club, particularly University, can afford to lose footballers who win their grade by talent and team spirit in the manner of last year's "J.2's".

Ian Dunn