Hautapu Sports Club History
Cambridge linked up with Waipa in 1902 after its application the year before had been
declined because of its dispute with Hamilton. It lost 6-0 to Paterangi in first game then lost
to Te Awamutu 3-8, beat Kihikihi 15-3, beat Paterangi 6-5 and lost 3-5 to Te Awamutu. The
squad was C Stewart ©, J Stewart, W McVeigh, Killip, W Tucker, G Ashwin, A Shepherd,
Cowling, E Brocklesby, J Montgomery, Senior, James, Veale, Jim Keeley, Murphy,
Anderson, Utting, Keightley, H Stitchbury, R Garland, J Tucker, Morgan, Tauranga, E
Nickle. Cambridge High lost 0-8 to Hamilton High.
Formation of Hautapu club
Boom times in 1903 meant Waikato s population continued to grow and among the
newcomers to the district were a number of 'pretty good footballers', according to rugby
sources. " There is every indication also that the game will reach a new high in Cambridge,"
the Waikato Argus reported. "We have been told there will be three or four good teams
(Hautapu, Maungatautari, Cambridge East and West) as a number of good players have come
from other parts".
Just prior to the April 4 meeting which agreed to form a Cambridge union, the Argus said
Maungatautari and Hautapu enthusiasts were confident of having enough men to make up
teams and that Cambridge East and West could both furnish enough good players. Cambridge
stalwart Matt Roberts was in the chair for the April 4 at the Criterion Hotel. However,
Cambridge West member Joe Montgomery said his men had made up their minds not to join
any reformed Cambridge union. They thought they should stay with Waipa. However,
Maungatautari, Hautapu and Cambridge East were in favour of a union and when C Stewart
moved and C Hicks seconded that a union be formed there was a great deal of support.
Montgomery then moved Cambridge join Waipa. E Brocklesby seconded. Montgomery s
amendment was put and lost. At that point Cambridge West players left the meeting. Matt
Roberts was appointed secretary pro term and the meeting was adjourned for a week. On
April 11 it was reported that the clubs had been formed and so the Cambridge union was
launched from the Masconic Hotel. Clubs were Hautapu, Maungatutari, Mangakawa Natives,
Cambridge East, Cambridge West, which included most of the dissenting voters of the week
before, and junior club Pukekura. Mangakawa became known as Wasps because of its black
and yellow colours. Maungatautari adopted all blue colours.
Hautapu s beginning came in the old bacon curing room at the Hautapu Dairy Factory. The
meeting was informal no chairman, no minutes. Jack Cowling, whose knowledge of the game
was said to have far surpassed others, was chief spokesman. Men sat on milk cans as he told
them of his attendance at the Cambridge meeting. The decision of those present to form the
Hautapu club laid the foundation for the future. It was said some of men who attended rode in
from as far as Day s Gully at Tamahere.
Original colours were red and black (changed not many years later to red and white with
black shorts). Jerseys were strongly made, collarless, with leather bound shoulders. The first
team was Fullback: Roy Crickett. Threequarters: Arthur Kelly, Durham Ashwin (captain),
Charlie Shaw. Five-eighths: Phil Goodwin, Cecil Ashwin. Halfback: Arthur Healey.
Forwards: George Beer (wing), Jack Cowling, Humphrey Russell, Jack Russell, Gibb Watt,
Jack Milne, Ned Hall, Tui Rangi. Others players listed during the season included H Keeley,
J Lane, T Martin, S Sealey, A Keeley, A Hall, J Millen, A White, S Hall, Windsor, J Layne.
Jerry Allwill gave the team use of a field adjacent to the railway station at Hautapu.
Goalposts were erected after the ground had been marked out and Jack Cowling took over the
role of player-coach. Cowling was also a champion middle distance athlete and knew the
value of fitness. Success was hard to come by. They rarely won, but it was noted that
Hautapu always come up smiling . W McVeagh was the listed referee when Hautapu lost 014 to Cambridge East at Victoria Square. Losses then followed against Cambridge West 173, Maungatautari 9-0, Tauwhare 3-0 (midweek) and Maungatautari 6-3. In the Cambridge
final West beat Maungatautari 12-0. To finish off the season Maungatautari and Cambridge
West took on a combined Hautapu and Cambridge East combination and won 3-0.
Unfortunately disputes among some Cambridge town players saw tensions run high. The
Argus' correspondent said - "There is too much talk amongst the Cambridge players and if it
does not cease there will soon be an open rupture". The paper then urged Cambridge East
players to practice and attend a meeting in J Gallagher s hotel to sort out the problems. When
the tension eased, some players turned out for more than one club team in order to get game
time. It was suggested young Cambridge players should take up athletics or rowing in the
summer to improve their fitness. Reports from other areas said some teams were playing
twice a week and there was a move afoot to ask the NZRFU to rule once a week was enough
for any man. However, well-known columnist of the time Offside Mac was quick to reply
"Any footballers who complain of playing two matches in a week should play ping-pong!"
Hamilton clubs watched the Cambridge scene with interest as it was hoped eventually
Cambridge would possibly link up for a combined competition.
Hautapu members heard in early July, 1903, the Hamilton union had decided to stop future
games by the ringing of a bell, the referee to give the signal when to take time off. Other
interesting comments from the meeting - * The times have gone when a referee can be bought
and sold. * The time has passed when a captain can threaten a referee with murder if he loses.
* The ideal referee should have thin legs, seven leaguered boots and a cast-iron constitution.
He should have eyes all sides of his head and some knowledge of the manly art to defend
himself. * The reason for the decadence of the game is threefold - A: The introduction of
wing forwards. B: The introduction of gambling element into matches. C: The apparent
unwillingness of the average player to make himself conversant with the finer points of the
game. .
GEORGE BEER, who played in the original 1903 Hautapu team, has had direct descendants
play for the club. His grandsons Andrew, David and George Beer all represented Hautapu.
Their father was Percy, an outstanding Cambridge and Waikato forward. Bruce Beer, who
served the club right through to the senior side, is George snr’s grandnephew.
In 1904 Jack Cowling was in charge at Hautapu again while Cambridge East became
Cambridge City with the mayor, T Wells, the president. T W Hicks was Maungatautari
president and R Reynolds West s president. Hautapu drew 0-0 with Cambridge West, lost 0-7
to City 7 and 0-14 to West.
Hautapu five-eighth James Watchom was the outstanding back when Cambridge played
Hamilton on July 23. He was considered to be one of the most capable players seen at Sydney
Square (later Steele Park) for several seasons. Joe Montgomery, Jack Cowling and the
veteran W McVeagh were also praised. Cambridge players were interested to learn the
Hamilton players had trained for two hours under the eye of their selector, former New
Zealand representative, Copper Speight. The Cambridge squad, which travelled by coach or
rode to the ground, and had a brief run before the match was Reg Garland, J Tucker, Armer,
Crickett, Watchorn, Stitchbury, Potts, Cowling, Jack Bailey, Arthur Bell, J Montgomery, J
Stitchbury, Mullins, Windsor, G Watts, Haupapa. Cambridge later beat Waipa 6-3 and lost 39 to Paeroa.
Hautapu and Pukekura players were involved on August 27 when a junior Cambridge team
beat Maungatautari juniors 18-12. The Argus commented "Host Jas Sinclair entertained both
teams at the Masonic Hotel. For some of the Maori boys in the teams it was their first visit to
such an establishment and the host told them, rugby opened many doors if they trained hard
and played to the rules .
George Gillett s selection in the 1905 New Zealand team to Great Britain was well received
in Cambridge as he had done contract work on some of the farms between there and
Morrinsville.
Progress at Victoria Square provoked much comment and the Argus reported "it can now
boast a comfortable pavilion, three shower baths for the sporting types which can also use
daily by local residents."
Hautapu and Maungatautari combined to become Suburbs and Cambridge union president Jas
Sinclair donated a silver cup for competition between Suburbs, City and West. Auckland
union was asked to invite Cambridge juniors up to improve their game and broaden their
knowledge of business and life in the Queen City.
Suburbs beat City 7-3 midweek with W R C Walker referee. New Cambridge selector W
McVeagh watched the match and praised the coming together of Suburbs which could now
field a senior and junior combination. In a special fixture to mark Empire Day, May 24,
Hamilton West state school beat Cambridge East School 13-3. Also in late May Suburbs lost
4-14 to West and 3-10 to City.
J Robert Bell was Cambridge delegate when Cambridge, Hamilton and Lower Waikato
decided to take steps to form a combined union to be called South Auckland.
Hamilton beat Cambridge 8-3 on July 1, but Cambridge gained its revenge with a 6-0 victory
over Hamilton at Sydney Square a week later. Cambridge then lost 0-6 to Waipa, 0-7 to
Rotorua and 0-3 to Franklin.
Before its third clash of the season against Cambridge, Hamilton held a practice under the
watchful eye of top Auckland referee, Harold Speight, a brother of the Hamilton selector,
Copper Speight. Cambridge led 11-0 halftime, but Hamilton put on 18 points against none in
the last quarter to come out on top. Cambridge s team was - J Tucker; R Crickett, A Dodd, J
Richardson; J Watchorn; Leo Garland; W Potts, J Stewart; A Bell, E Bailey, C Care, A
Richardson, J Montgomery, F Stitchbury, J Cowling. Emergencies: E Armer, H Stitchbury, D
Hickey, E Ted Nickle, Windsor. "Cambridge tired visibly in the second spell and Hamilton
just took control. It was later learnt Cambridge had not been training!" Cambridge president
Jas Sinclair entertained the representative side at Masonic Hotel. He said standard had
improved, but he hoped players would get some practice together. Cambridge City juniors
won the union banner when they beat Suburbs 13-3 in the final.
Cambridge Suburbs AGM on Saturday, April 14, 1906, resolved to wind up that club and the
funds (16s6d) were handed to the Maungatautari members who then affiliated to the
Cambridge union along with West and City. It was decided Maungatautari s boundaries
would include the Hautapu area. City, which included a couple of former Hautapu players,
won the championship. Farming duties were again given as the reason for a drop off in player
strength.
Cambridge lost 0-8 and 3-13 to Hamilton. Many players were invited to play and these
included Mawhai, B Crickett, J Tucker, J Richardson, H Stitchbury, N Peake, W Potts, Dave
Hickey, D Hay, L Hay, Thompson, E Bailey, J Montgomery, H Mullins, E Nickle, H Atkins,
B Stitchbury, C Vickers, F Keeley, B Keeley, N Anderson, A Allen, C McLean, A McLean,
W Dwyer, B Allen, Bob Newcombe, Kelly.
Two other features of the season were Cambridge s schoolboys 8-5 success against Hamilton
while in early June Cambridge formed a branch of the Auckland Referees Association with
W R C Walker in charge. H Mullins, V Carley and W R McVeagh was also involved.
Cambridge delegates supported the formation of the third Waikato union along with
Hamilton, Lower Waikato and Waipa in 1907. There was disappointment when Waikato
winger J Richardson transferred to City in Hamilton. However, his departure was offset by
the arrival in the town of the highly regarded Taranaki player George Morse. He went straight
into the Waikato side along with H Reese, a forward. Cambridge City president J S Bygrave
said he hoped players living near the town would stay in the area and not take incentives to
travel to Hamilton or Waipa to play. Players in the Hautapu area were among those
approached by agents who also doubled as farm equipment salesmen. It was noted betting on
Hamilton matches had become a real problem and police had been called to several incidents
caused by non-payment of investments. The Cambridge representatives beat Ohaupo 8-3, lost
6-9 to Waipa and lost 0-17 to Hamilton.
In 1908 Morse transferred on promotion to Rotorua from where he represented Auckland.
Cambridge union president was E J Smith with referee W R McVeagh also the selector. P
Carr, union secretary, announced he had received a gold medal >from L D Nathan & Co to
present to the best Cambridge player of the season. Affiliated clubs were West, East-City and
Ohaupo. Ohaupo won the championship when it beat East-City combined 12-3 in the final.
City beat West 17-6 in the junior final. M Wells was Cambridge s man on the Waikato union.
Representative squad was H Forkert, W G Abbott, J Tucker, Brown, C Clarke, Allen, W
Potts, Hickey, Urquhart, Clarke, W Mathieson, H Mullins, Watters, Reese, J Montgomery, B
Morse, Ingpen, Cox, J Stewart, Bowen, Allen. The side lost 3-8 to Hamilton 8-3, 5-17 to
Franklin, 0-8 to Waipa and 3-8 to Rotorua. Waikato trialists were Tucker (12st2lb), James
Stewart, Potts, Clarke (14st 9lb), Montgomery and Cox. Waikato decided its colours would
be green with white badge bearing an oatsleaf and the word Waikato. Waikato beat Auckland
9-6 at Auckland , beat Thames 6-5 away, beat Goldfields 9-8 then lost to Thames 6-3 and 3-5
to Auckland.
Formation of the South Auckland union was the feature of 1909. Ohaupo, City and Matangi
were Cambridge union clubs. West withdrew because some of their players wanted to try
other sports such as polo, golf, bowls and hockey and others joined City.
Representative colours were black and white with the squad including Dunning, J Hally, R
Crickett, W Potts, Hickey, J Murphy, A Crickett, La Trobe, W Smart, G Washer, Plescher
(City), H Forkert, W G Abbott, S Clarke, Devine, J Willoughby, Urquhart, Jim Burke, Lynds,
H McKern, J Edwards, J Toms, J Muir (Ohaupo); Tui, Tuhakaraina (Matangi). The side drew
with Matamata, beat Franklin 8-0, lost to Waipa 6-8 and lost to Hamilton 0-14. Waikato
representatives included winger Forkert and forwards S Clarke and Devine. Cambridge had
three in the inaugural Waikato school team, J Cubis, A Mullins and A Thompson
The Waikato Argus of Wednesday, February 16, 1910, reported - "The young men of
Hautapu and Bruntwood (possibly known to some outside the area as Fencourt) held a
meeting the other evening for the purpose of forming a football club. There was an
attendance of about 20. Mr G Edwards being voted to the chair. In his opening remarks the
chairman said they must stir themselves and make an early start with football or they would
find polo and hockey, where Hautapu was very strong, formidable rivals. It was decided to
form a club to be known as the Bruntwood Football Club with a subscription of 2s6p per
member. The following officers were appointed Patron, Frank Ross; president, W G Doyle;
vice presidents, Messrs Jerry Allwill, J Martyn, A McFarlane, A Beange, J and W McMillan,
J Fletcher, A Potts, A Lebeau, R Cowley, C Tonge, H Tyler; secretary-treasurer, H Reynell;
management committee, G Edwards. E H Reese, W Goodwin, J Henderson, A Jarvie. Club
colours will be blue and black." Bruntwood s boundary went from the Tamahere crossroads
along the Tamahere road through Matangi to Tauwhare thence in a direct line to Mr Brunskill
s at Taa Taoroa with the sanatorium included.
Messrs Edwards and Doyle represented Bruntwood at the Cambridge AGM held in the
Farmers Club rooms. Harold Speight chaired the meeting. Other Cambridge clubs were City,
Maungatautari (revived) and Ohaupo while Kihikihi affiliated >from Waipa as that union
went into recess. City decided to keep amber and black colours. Maungatautari announced D
Makgill was its president and Noel Peake selector. More grounds were needed to cater for
increase of junior teams.
Bruntwood s 1910 squad included F Thompson, P Devine, W Devine, L Burns, J Burns, A
Jarvie, Reynell, J Thompson, G Edwards, Lyons, C Humphries, R Humphries, Radford, Le
Motte, Wiri, Russell, Giffney, Tui, Ranson, Goodwin. Wins were hard to find, but the team
improved as the scores indicated. Losses were to City 30-0 and 16-0, to Maungatautari 18-0,
to Kihikihi 30-0 and 9-0. Cambridge s representative squad included H Forkert, J Tucker, J
Hally, Rex Dunning, A Dunning, Lyons, C Clifford, W Potts, R Henderson, Roy Dunning, F
Thompson, G Maunder, J Reese, J Willoughby, E Carroll, J Kay, J Cox, C Hally, D Hickey,
P Devine, J Watters, Cunningham. Waikato administrators watched Hamilton beat
Cambridge 8-3 when four 20 minute spells and substitutions were tried. Cambridge then drew
3-3 with Lower Waikato and beat Matamata 6-0. Waikato representatives were J Hally , H M
Dunning, R Henderson, A R Dunning, A Maunder, R J Dunning and T Thompson. On
August 6 Hora Hora beat a Cambridge XV 6-0. Active referees were W McVeagh, R
Cranston and H Mullins.
Kihikihi won the 1911 Cambridge title when it beat Ohaupo 14-0. Bruntwood and
Maungatautari combined as Cambridge Suburbs and Hora Hora affiliated, but later withdrew.
When an unsuccessful attempt was made to revive the Waipa union, Ohaupo and Te
Awamutu joined Cambridge. The amalgamation of Bruntwood and Maungatautari resulted in
Cambridge Suburbs being formed at a meeting in the National Hotel on May 6. H Atkins was
in the chair. Officers elected President, R Fisher; committee, J Martyn, F Thomson, W Tyler,
K Anderson, J Tucker, J Montgomery, H Atkins; selectors, F Thomasson, K Anderson, H
Atkins, H Reynil; delegates to Cambridge union, F Thomason, J Tucker; secretary-treasurer,
H Atkins; captain, J Tucker; vice-captain, F Thomason; colours, blue and white. Again
Suburbs struggled with losses to City 3-11 and 0-3; to Ohaupo 0-6; to Te Awamutu 0-19; and
Kihikihi 0-3. Suburbs players in Cambridge representatives included C Richardson, J Tucker,
J Richardson and J Montgomery. Matches against Matamata and Hamilton were both drawn
3-3. Others in the Suburbs club side were Strawbridge, Martyn, G Vosper, Reynil, Atkins,
Pima, Thomason, Hall, Matakohe, Allen, Amos, J Burns, Norris, F Hicks, Tyler, Hall, Burns,
Peake, Landman, Tairi, Riley, Keeley.
E Caddie and Meredith were Cambridge representatives on the Waikato schools union.
Cambridge schools beat Morrinsville 9-, but lost 0-6 to Hamilton East. A Thompson, Webber
and Souter were in the Waikato schools side. Cambridge Tradespeople beat Cambridge
Clerks 6-3
Cambridge referees reformed their association with S Lewis, W R C Walker, W McVeagh, H
Speight, David Hickey, D McAlley (Cambridge); D Robb, J Paul (Ohaupo); F Verner and J
Burke (Kihikihi) active every Saturday.
Cambridge had Oriental (in place of City), Cambridge West and Hora Hora in 1912 while
there was also junior team interest again in Hautapu with the decline of Suburbs. The
Kihikihi, Te Awamutu and Ohaupo clubs left to revive Waipa.
Harold Speight was chairman when a good attendance of Cambridge enthusiasts held an
informal meeting at the National Hotel on Friday, May 10. "The meeting was called by Mr H
B Higgins who had lately come to town and indeed most of those present were newcomers to
the district," said the Waikato Argus. "After considerable discussion it was decided to form a
new club to take the place of Cambridge City which seems to be defunct. Mr Higgins was
secretary pro tem. Clubs have already been formed at Hora Hora and Cambridge West. A
vote of thanks was accorded to Mr Higgins for the trouble he had taken in endeavouring to
get football going again in Cambridge."
On Monday, May 13, the Cambridge Oriental club was formed at the National Hotel. Harold
Speight presided over 30 who elected - President, Jas Watters; secretary-treasurer, H B
Higgins; committee, F Wickens, W Ladner, Bollinger, Minchen, W Potts, G Pierce, W
Holmes. Club colours: Green. Messrs Watters and Higgins also became the president and
secretary of the Cambridge union
The Waikato Argus commented "It appears football is going to take on a new lease of life in
Cambridge with enthusiasts around Hautapu now appearing to have more time to arrange and
play friendly matches." Oriental s squad was J Makgill, D Stewart, D Murphy, J Sims, J
Furey, T Atkins, A Minchin, G Pierce, F Wickens, Mason, Baker, T Sullivan, B Edwards, W
Holmes, P Holmes, W Ladner, H Higgins. Oriental met West three times during the season
and on each occasion it was a 0-0 draw. Cambridge reps beat Hamilton B 3-0. Waikato senior
representatives were Stewart, Keeley, J Tucker and A Dunning while R Randrup represented
Waikato schools.
While the game was said to have struggled in Cambridge in 1913, the good news was that
there was resurgence in Hautapu. In May a Hautapu combination lost 0-20 to West. The
Waikato Argus commented on Hautapu s showing "What they want is practice." On June 14
a High School and Old Boys combination beat Hautapu 13-8 at Victoria Square. It was 8-8 at
halftime. Try scorers for Hautapu were Kelly and Stone. Harold Speight was referee. Hautapu
and Old Boys then combined for two matches against local opposition and won both. Players
included R Newcombe, F Newcombe, J Thompson, A Swayne, Kipi, A Climo, H Jamieson,
B Bush, R Haysmith,, A McIndoe, H Kappeley, A Jamieson, F Swayne, H Leaning, Kelly,
Stone and H Roberts. E Brocklesby was listed as Cambridge’s top referee. A small pox scare
in mid-July saw most matches called off and the season ended quietly.
While many Cambridge players responded to the call of national service in 1914 there were
high hopes the game would be able to continue in the town and surrounding district. The
Argus reported on April 8 "Football was revived in Cambridge last night when a large
number of enthusiastic followers met at the Masonic Hotel and unanimously decided to form
a club. J Hally was appointed secretary. He was asked to write to Hamilton and Waipa unions
asking them if the club could be granted home matches."
Hamilton decided to admit both Cambridge and Morrinsville, but that matches would have to
be played at Hamilton. Cambridge then decided to affiliate with Waipa because it had been
offered more home matches. However, only three turned up at the next club meeting. The
Argus commented "Cambridge s hope to revive the game in the town has suffered a real
blow. Football has been dead in Cambridge for some time, but there were high hopes of a
revival. However, judging by the result of a meeting that was called for last Friday, May 15,
when only three rolled up, it is probably defunct." Keen Cambridge players were encouraged
to link up with Hamilton clubs.
With war clouds darkening many men went into camp. The Hautapu camp colours were
presented on May 4 with a big number of sportsmen among the ranks. Waikato troops started
to mobilise and Cambridge men were among the first departures which took place quietly
from the Horse Bazaar in Ward St, Hamilton, on August 12.
The annual Tradesmen v Clerks match was drawn 3-3 and Cambridge school teams were
active with E T Robinson (Matangi) one of the leading organisers. A 3-0 success over Eureka
was considered Cambridge s highlight and from that match Miller made Waikato team.
So great was the Waikato response to the call for service in 1915, all senior play was
curtailed. However, administrators stressed the need for youth and school grades to continue.
Players working on special schemes outside of the Cambridge settlement decided to form the
Maungatautari union. It was reported on Tuesday, May 4, "The season opened on Saturday
when Maungatautari (Maori) met and defeated Rangatahi (Rotorangi Maori). The latter team
was a fine looking one and the final score of 9-3 was quite opposite to general expectations.
C Hicks had charge of the game. Next Saturday the winners will play the Europeans of
Maungatautari who are labouring under the difficulty of finding a suitable name. They say it
is worse than naming a baby!"
The Pakehas drew 6-all with Maori. J Budge, D Ariell, E Nickle and B Allen were said to star
for the Pakehas while Puturangi, Tarawhiti, D Turi and Matekohi were the best of the Maori
team. On May 15 Mangatahi beat Takapau 3-0. Later in the month Maungatautari downed
Takapau 10-3 and Takapau beat Rangatahi 11-9. Referees were A Salter, J Tucker and Jack
Box.
Cambridge public schools were kept busy again in 1916 and combined to beat St Mary s
Convent 10-0. Harold Speight was referee. Once again matches were mainly confined to
those under military age although some army cadets played friendly matches on Victoria
Square.
Early in August, 1917, the Cambridge Patriotic Club requested Hamilton field a team of
players over 35 years to play a XV of the same standing in Cambridge to help the war fund.
The festive match "stretched a few hidden muscles, bruised a few limbs but helped many
families."
As men returned from the horrors of the First World War in 1918 there was a gradual revival
of the game in Cambridge and a timely boost came when a local side held Hamilton to 3-6 in
late September. The season was one of reconstruction as the returned men regained their
health and endeavoured to settle back into the routines of a farming district and life in a town
with plenty of potential as quick as they could.
Women s outdoor basketball had been instigated during the war years in an effort to help the
wives, mothers, girlfriends and sisters relieve their built-up emotions and frustrations. The
chance to get healthy exercise and make social contact with others in the same position as
themselves helped considerably. The authorities were overjoyed by the warm response of the
returned men who backed the objective and seemed to relish the opportunity to be courtside
with other family members to cheer on their loved ones.
Keen sportsman G Sammy Burns of Fencourt realised the men also needed to resume
organised leisure time activity as soon as possible and tried to reform the hockey team which
had been very successful prior to the war. When he didn't receive much response he opted for
rugby instead and had an instant reaction. Those from town and country answered his call. He
became captain of the Hautapu junior team which almost immediately started to be
successful. The likes of Gordon Greig, Arty Thompson, J Reeves, Tom Appleby, Tom
Bourke, G Friend, Ces Thompson, S Parker, E Hintz, Leo Bourke, R Wilcox, J Hill, A
Bellamy, B Cordon, H Lincoln, Brick Kelly, C Blackburn and N McLennon were names
associated with Hautapu and records indicate 18 matches were played and won!
Hautapu had more triumphs the following season and collected the Cambridge union s 1919
championship banner. New names listed included H J Ambury (president), T Kennedy,
William (Bill) Bourke, Jack Bourke, William Gibbons, Bower Thorpe, Bert Allwill, J
Voysey, O Newcombe, Roy Dunning (captain), J Butler, Charlie La Trobe, Jack (Joe)
Gasparich, Dick Arnold (father of five sons all to play for the club) and Dan Bourke. Mascot
in the team photo was A Ambury. Gasparich later played for Hamilton and Auckland.
Hautapu back Arty Thompson was the star individual although Cambridge lost 5-20 to
Hamilton. Later in the season Cambridge beat a Hamilton selection 11-9 at Steele Park.
Cambridge selections included Senior: Box, Stewart, Tupu, Hicks, A Thompson, Haworth,
Torrens, Roy Dunning, Wallace, Johnston, H Thorpe, B Thorpe, J Bourke, Whellin, McIvor.
Junior: Radford, Peake (2), Rongo, S Burns, Lincoln, Tukeri, G Friend, Hicks, Brown, Arn,
Amoho, T Bourke, Marcroft, Entwistle, Bell, Shostrom, Burns, Makgill, Cordon, Reeves,
Greig, Wilcox.
The area played its part in the peace celebrations and several matches were played to assist
the Soldiers Fund. Former All Black, Lieutenant E E Booth, visited Cambridge on a morale
boosting exercise and said the laws of the game were far too complex and called for a
complete reform. He suggested teams be reduced to 14-a-side and that the 2-3-2 scrum be
kept with one less back. He advocated four 20 minute quarters and that the referee should put
the ball into the scrums. He also saw a need to avoid pile-ups. Another visitor to the area was
famous 1905 All Black Billy Wallace.
The resurgence of the game in Cambridge continued in 1920 with Hautapu, Maungatautari,
City, Roto-rangi and Leamington involved in weekly matches on Victoria Square. Hautapu
collected the senior championship again. Junior clubs were Hautapu, City and Maungatautari.
Cambridge was granted affiliation to South Auckland in July. The local players were given a
boost when the Auckland and South Auckland union selectors came to watch the match
against Hamilton. Although Hamilton won 18-0 some of the Cambridge players made an
impact with Hautapu s Arty Thompson being selected for South Auckland against Taranaki
and South Island Country. The Taranaki match was drawn 0-0 while South Island Country
was beaten 9-0. Matches were at Steele Park, Hamilton East.
Cambridge representatives were - Tupu, Thompson, Hemmingway, Gasparich, Tatton,
Haworth, Roberts, Peake, Rich, Dench, Hall, Wiles, Johnson, Welcher, Dunning, Ryan,
Peake, B Thorpe, Bourke, Fletcher. Bower Thorpe from Hautapu shared first place in a
special town carnival goalkicking contest on June 5. Cambridge challenged for the Peace Cup
on July 31, but Hamilton was too strong and won 17-3. Cambridge then beat Raglan 8-3.
Cambridge YMCA beat Hamilton YMCA 8-3.
Morrinsville and Hamilton delegates and players arrived in Cambridge to discuss a proposed
new Waikato union with leading lights such as the Thompsons, Thorpes, Peakes, Haworths
and Bourkes as well as Cambridge union president, R Newcombe, secretary, J D Clark,
treasurer, V Cornega and the committee of J Tucker, W McVeagh and W Dick. It was agreed
South Auckland union was too big and that a Waikato union should be formed. Just after that
meeting it was learnt Thames, Paeroa, Waihi and Piako had decided to move from South
Auckland and form a new union of their own. When the Cambridge men heard that news,
they agreed with Hamilton delegates that the time was right for a new Waikato union.
One of the more amusing incidents of the early 1920s involved club patron J J BOURKE.
Hautapu had beaten Leamington and JJ went to the National Hotel to shout for the boys.
Inevitably, he stayed longer than he intended. It was getting dark as he drove home and his
buggy was without lights. Soon the familiar voice of the local policeman came out of the
gloom. "Where are your lights?" Replied JJ" with his unfailing courtesy "It’s all right, Jim, I
am just going home to get them!"
WORDS of Mr Joe Ambury, Hautapu chairman just after the First World War, to intending
players "Play hard. It is not a parlour game. Play clean. We all admire a robust player, but
despise a dirty one. Always play to win. Remember you are just a cog in the wheel. Above
all, play the game. As you play your games, so do you live your lives."
Hautapu s gross proceeds from an end of 1921 season concert/ dance was 12 pounds 16s1p.
Expenses included Banfield s orchestra one pounds 15s, ticket printing 12s6p, candles 1s3p,
advertising one pound 4s, hall hire one pound; profit eight pounds 3s4p, a record!
Cambridge joined the new Waikato union in 1921 with clubs Hautapu, Cadets, Leamington,
City, Matangi, Roto-o-rangi, Maungatautari and Tauwhare. A R Cox was Cambridge union
president and N J McNeill secretary.
Arty Thompson and Dan Bourke (Hautapu) were in the trials to select a team to tour
Taranaki, Wanganui and Palmerston North. Thompson came on as a replacement in Waikato
s first game against Taranaki which ended in a 15-15 draw. He also represented Waikato
against New South Wales and South Africa. Cambridge representative squad included P
Peake, Haworth, Paton, Haines, A Thompson, Porteous, A Paterson, N Peake (rover),
Lewery, D Bourke, Devine, W Bourke, N Patterson, Rodewald, Brown, White, Cranston,
Cave, R Thorpe. The side beat a combined St Mary’s-Old Boys-Waikare side 16-8, drew 3-3
with Morrinsville and lost 7-11 to Piako. Leamington beat Roto-o-rangi 14-6 to win the
senior championship.
Hautapu beat Leamington 9-3 to win the 1922 Cambridge senior championship. Other senior
clubs were City and Roto-o-rangi. Hautapu subscriptions were set at two shillings while the
club had to purchase four pair of black shorts at 7s6p a pair and five jerseys at 13s6p each to
hold in reserve. The club was advised Putaruru had formed a sub-union. Hautapu centre/wing
Arty Thompson, who had become a regular in the Waikato team, was one of several players
urged by star back Bert Cooke to spend a season in Auckland and show off his skills to the
national selectors who hardly ever ventured out of the city to watch country players.
Thompson, like most of the others Cooke approached, decided to stay in the Waikato and
consequently missed the trials. Hautapu wing Leo Bourke played in Waikato s last match of
the season. Cambridge lost to Hamilton 5-6, drew 6-6 with Matamata., lost to Morrinsville 614 and beat Putaruru 14-3. Cambridge representative squad included Craig, A W Thompson,
Howarth, Leo Bourke, Makgill, I Peake, D Warren, J Voysey, Wallis, White, Devine, Dan
Bourke, R Dunning, N Patterson, W Espiner, P Peake, Butler, Bill Bourke, Robertson.
Hautapu won the 1923 Cambridge senior championship final 11-3 over City. It also won the
sevens. Other clubs were Leamington, Monovale, Cadets and Hora Hora. A popularity poll of
Waikato players saw Hautapu s Arty Thompson, Bill and Dan Bourke ranked high while
Cambridge administrator Victor Cornaga was near the top of his group. Thompson and the
Bourkes played for Waikato. Leo Bourke played for combined Waikato-Thames Valley-Bay
of Plenty against New South Wales with Thompson in the reserves.
Cambridge beat Thames 6-0 to win Peace Cup for first time. It then beat Paeroa 24-0, drew 33 Morrinsville and lost 9-22 to Hamilton. Cambridge s win broke a long spell of victories by
either Thames or Hamilton. In friendlies Cambridge beat Waipa 15-3, lost 6-7 to Morrinsville
and 5-11 to Hamilton. Representative squad Collett, A W Thompson, D Robinson, Leo
Bourke, I Peake, W Voysey, Wehipeihana, J Voysey, Bill Bourke, J Dagg, J Wallis, Dan
Bourke, B Hall, Devine, Hagan, Makgill, K White, J Butler, C McMillan, E Cleaver, J
Bourke, Peet, Dave Bourke, Robertson.
Jack Bourke became Hautapu president. The club s expenses for the season were six pounds
3s6p and comprised Affiliation fees, two pounds 2s; advertising 12s; writing pad, envelopes
and stamps 10s; members passes 10s9p; oranges for match v Hamilton 5s; Hautapu Hall hire
for annual meeting, football for club use, two pounds.
A great tale is told about the BOURKES in a club game against Cambridge City in the 1920s.
City kicked off. Five-eighth Tom Bourke fielded the ball. After a few steps he passed to
winger Leo who fooled the defence when he passed back inside to fullback Bill. Jack, the
closest forward, then took Bill s pass and made ground to inside the City half before he
handed on to number eight Dan. Big Bill then loomed up inside Dan to take the final pass and
sprinted a short distance for the try after 75 yards of only Bourke involvement.
TOM BOURKE snr played for the club from 1918 to 1933 and then coached club sides,
including the seniors, up to 1950. His ability to pass on the skills of the game to the
youngsters made him special. He was always a solid performer at either five-eighth or
fullback. His defensive qualities earned him high praise and his surprising turn of speed saw
him catch many opposition sides napping. He represented Cambridge and Tauranga in sub
union play.
DAN BOURKE was urged to go to Auckland to show his ability off to the national selectors.
He was a powerful forward and usually played in the middle of the back row of the 2-3-2
scrum. John Hooper, one of the Waikato hookers in the 1920s, recalled playing with and
against Dan. "He was able to rip the ball away in tackles and set up drives. Even though he
was in the back row, you could feel his power in the scrums. His combination with Bill
Bourke was special with Bill able to run off his shoulder. He also looked after Bill at lineout
time. When he was nominated for the All Black trials we thought he would make it, but I m
sure the fact he came from Waikato counted against him. Our Hamilton team enjoyed playing
Cambridge as it was always a willing contest with a lot of good fun afterwards. The Bourke
boys were all good company and years later, through our association with the Harlequin club,
we became great friends." Dan represented Cambridge seniors from 1919 to 1935 and had a
long career as a Waikato representative and selector.
One of the real characters of Waikato rugby of the 1920s was Hautapu s versatile forward,
BILL BOURKE. Big Bill was regarded as the union s first choice rover. In spite of being one
of the biggest players in the district, he was surprisingly quick and loved to run in the open
with the ball in one hand. When Waikato struggled at lineout time, Bill was often called in to
help gain possession. Because of his rich talents he was called on to play in many positions
for his club, including fullback. His handling and punting skills in wet weather made him a
valuable defender, He also enjoyed the freedom of the fullback s role and started off many try
scoring movements from there. When given the opportunity Bill was also a capable goal
kicker and scored many points for the club, Cambridge and Waikato. His semi-serious claim
soon after the Peace Cup victory against Thames that the result made Cambridge the best
team in the world as Thames had beaten Auckland which had beaten the All Blacks who had
beaten the rest of the world, received a lot a mileage at the time and the story continued to be
told down through the years.
LEO BOURKE was a brilliant winger who played for Cambridge from 1920-27 and also
represented Waikato. When he moved for a while to Taranaki he soon represented his new
province. His outstanding form lifted him into the top echelon of wingers. He looked a
certainty to tour South Africa with the 1928 All Blacks, but a broken leg in the final trial
dashed his hopes. When he came back to Cambridge he also turned his hand to coaching and
had a great deal of success.
CES THOMPSON leaves a defender sprawling and sprints down the sideline on his way to
yet another try on the Government Acre in the early 1920s.
Hautapu lost 0-3 to Leamington in the 1924 Cambridge final. Hautapu players Arty and Ces
Thompson, Dan and Leo Bourke appeared for Waikato while Bill Bourke made A Waikato
XV. Cambridge won the Finlay Cup with wins against Putaruru 36-20, Matamata 23-3,
Morrinsville 17-12 and then a 11-all draw with Waipa. The challenge for the Peace Cup was
thwarted 3-19 by Hamilton. The squad included - H Roberts, Cecil Thompson, Arty
Thompson, Leo Bourke, C McMillan, W L Bell, Jessop, I Peake, J Dagg, C Robertson, J
Wallis, Dan Bourke, Bert Hall, Jack Bourke, Bill Bourke, Kelly, Kennedy, Tauti, Cooper.
The club decided to donate a football to the Hautapu School. The annual meeting passed a
resolution that the Cambridge union be asked to secure the caps that were promised to the
winners of the competitions.
Hautapu s Dan Bourke, who was also highly rated as a selector and coach, was nominated for
the 1925 All Black trials. He played for Waikato-King Country against New South Wales. He
was also asked to help out with the selection of the Waikato side.
Waikato representatives were Arty Thompson, Bill Bourke, Dan Bourke and A Keightley.
The last named had played for Waitoa, Morrinsville and Waikato before he transferred to
Hautapu in 1925. A very capable tight forward he made nine appearances for Waikato from
1922-27, including two during the time he was at Hautapu. Cambridge retained the Finlay
City with wins against Waipa 8-0, Matamata 3-0, Putaruru 19-6, Morrinsville 3-0 and Raglan
12-5. Cambridge pushed Hamilton all the way in a Peace Cup challenge, but had to be
content with a 6-all draw. The squad was - Latta, Russo, Arty Thompson, Leo Bourke,
Batchelor, Kneebone, Waters, Voysey, Wallis, Dagg, Keightley, Bert Hall, Dan Bourke,
Cornall, Ted Hall. Cambridge juniors defended the newly presented Boyce Cup 9-3 against
Waipa while Leamington was senior champion. Monovale club disbanded.
The growth of the game continued at a rapid pace in 1926 with the success of the 1924 All
Blacks being a major factor in a huge increase in school and junior players.
Cambridge decided to allow players within its union to play for whatever clubs they wanted
instead of imposing district boundaries. The Hautapu balance sheet showed a credit balance
of six pounds.10s.3d. The secretary was instructed to purchase two dozen pairs of stockings
with red and white hoops. Waikato trialists were Ces Thompson and Dan Bourke with the
latter again representing the union at first-class level. A 3-0 success against Hamilton was the
highlight of the sub union season for Cambridge. The rep squad included Morriss, Ces
Thompson, Arty Thompson, Batchelor, Murphy, May, E Walters, J Voysey, J Dagg, Bert
Hall, E Hall, Dan Bourke, C Collett, Hart, Milburn
Leo Bourke, former Hautapu, Cambridge and Waikato winger, played for Taranaki and
scored a try and converted it to enable his new province to beat the star studded Hawke s Bay
combination 5-3. His continued good form brought him to the notice of the national selectors.
However, just when he looked a certainty for the 1928 All Black team to tour South Africa he
had the terrible bad luck to break a leg in the final trial and so missed selection.
The name of Jessie Thompson will live on forever in the history of Hautapu. Jessie was a
wonderful sportswoman and just loved her golf. However, her golfing programme she was
one of the oldest members and a life member of the Cambridge Golf Club was always
arranged so that it did not interfere with her watching Hautapu play. Her regular attendance at
both Victoria Square and in her usual seat at Memorial Park, always supporting Hautapu, was
one of the permanent fixtures of Cambridge rugby.
Her brothers, Arty, who served abroad in the First World War, and Ces, a champion sprinter
of his day, both had distinguished moments for the club, Cambridge and Waikato. Arty came
on as a replacement in the first match played by the newly formed Waikato union and then
became a regular and played against the touring New South Wales and Springbok teams.
Later he successfully selected and coached the Cambridge representatives to win the Finlay
Cup.
Arty was a real colourful character as well as a fine footballer. Fellow team members
remembered he fired up when challenged and the tougher it got the better he liked it. Some of
his try scoring feats on Victoria Square became legendary. One that was told over and over
again was the try he scored minus his shorts. He had made a strong burst down the sideline
and in the act of breaking the final tackle had his shorts ripped off. Undeterred he streaked on
for the try. The match reviewer considered " &in spite of the inconvenience into the cool
wind, he completed his designated task with great skill. One hand controlled the slippery,
heavy ball while with the other he tried to hold his jersey down low enough to satisfy the
requirements of the laws of the land. It was generally agreed he succeeded." Arty was one of
a select group of Waikato players who were approached by the famous All Black, Bert
Cooke, in the early 1920s to play club rugby in Auckland. Cooke considered the Waikato
men only had to be seen by the national selectors to be right in line for higher honours. Arty,
like the other Waikato players, said he would rely on playing well in the trial match
scheduled for Hamilton. Unfortunately a rail strike around the time of the trial prevented the
national selectors from travelling to Hamilton and any chance he had was lost.
Waikato hooker Johnny Hooper, often an opponent of Arty s when Hamilton played
Cambridge, said the Hautapu man was fantastic for team spirit and was quick to support his
players who were under fire from the opposition. In one match against Auckland, Arty saw
Hooper getting the treatment well away from the ball and behind the referee s back. Hooper
said Arty raced in, swung several, managed to land one right on target, and had well gone by
the time the referee was made aware of the Aucklander lying flat on his back. "The
Aucklanders chased him for the rest of the day, but Arty was far too smart for them. I bought
him a couple of beers later for helping me out. We became great mates after that!"
Lil, and Jim, who lost his life during the First World War, were other family members.
The next generation kept the family name to the fore. Don, a son of Ces, had four matches for
Waikato in 1959. Arty s son, Jim, played for Waikato juniors and was a valuable Hautapu
and Cambridge representative. Later Philip, a son of Don, also made an impact.
THE Thompsons all wrapped up ready for the action on Hamilton s Rugby Park.
In 1927 Cambridge hosted Waikato s match against Manawhenua (combined Manawatu and
Horowhenua), the Ranfurly Shield holder. Waikato won 17-9 with Hautapu s Ces Thompson
and Dan Bourke in the side. Cambridge had successes against other sub unions, but had
difficulty with Hamilton. The A squad lost 3-25, 6-8 and a Peace Cup challenge 6-11 while
the B squad lost 6-14. The A s included - H Roberts, C Thompson, A Thompson, A Russo, A
Hart, J Voysey, McDonnell, W Bourke, J Dagg, B Hall, J Bourke, McDonald, P J
McNamara, D Bourke, F Cooper, T Collett, C McMillan, H McIvor, J Wallis, E Hall. The B
XV was - W Broderson, Morrow, S May, Giles, J Peake, Appleby, Smillie, T Hall, Temai,
Fletcher, Wilson, T Collett, Miller, Greyling, Howell.
The overall standard of play concerned Cambridge enthusiasts. J Hair, who convened two
meetings, advocated Waikato should drop the sub unions and one body should control all
rugby in the area with the towns being represented by one senior side with Hamilton having
two. B H Bishop thought Cambridge and Te Awamutu should link up. Cambridge, which
said the abolition of sub unions would see more interesting club games, had a strong
influence at Waikato level with A ( Dolph ) Montgomery elected union president and W S
Milburn union treasurer.
During the season Jack Bourke proposed that the official Hautapu boundary be along the
Sanitorium Road, up Livingstone Road across the Pukemoremore Hill to Victoria Road, then
along it to Scotchman s Valley, back past the Matangi factory to the Hamilton Cambridge
Road. Bill Bourke seconded the motion and it was carried. S Smillie s suggestion that the
club donate a can of benzine to the delegates of the Cambridge union was also adopted.
The 1928 champion Hautapu s senior squad included W Miller, L Petersen, H Roberts, R
Hollier, S Smillie, J Morriss, W Bourke, L Bourke, A Thompson, Hall, A Miller, J Harris, D
Bourke, P Cowan, A Harris, G Mann, J Bourke jnr, C Thompson and T Bourke. Dan and Bill
Bourke played for Waikato. Cambridge lost its main matches 3-17 to Hamilton and 5-12 to
Morrinsville. The rep squad included - Foster, A Thompson, W Bourke, J Morriss, T Dagg,
Bluck, Kelly, Chitty, Wallis, Day, Bellington, McDonald, Tyler, Miller, Shaw. J J Bourke srn
was Hautapu patron, B Wells president and H Cubis secretary. Kaipaki club became
affiliated.
TOM TURNBULL came to Cambridge in 1928 and served Hautapu for more than 60 years!
He played his early rugby at Frankton. His contribution as a coach of the third graders and
junior grade players was immense, both for Hautapu and at sub union level. In 1939 it was
nearly the same team as Hautapu had 13 players in the Cambridge team which won the Boyce
Cup, the prized junior trophy of Waikato. Only petrol restrictions prevented the side
contesting, and probably winning, the Clarke Cup knockout prize.
In all interviews regarding Hautapu s history, Tom s name has always been mentioned in
highly favourable terms. He was president from 1950-59 and became a life member in 1960
and has continued to support the club as patron for many seasons.
Cambridge won the Finlay Cup in 1929 with wins over Matamata 3-0, Morrinsville 11-9, and
a 6-all draw with Waipa. A Peace Cup challenge against Hamilton was lost 3-21. The rep
squad included Peake, A Thompson, T Dagg, Kennedy, Baker, Byrne, Hollier, W Bourke, J
Dagg, D Bourke, G Frear, McNamara, Lloyd, Morse, C Robinson. J J Bourke jnr became
Hautapu president with H Cubis secretary-treasurer as well as club captain. After a squabble,
City and Old Boys clubs forgot their differences and amalgamated as United with A Harris
president, A R Batchelor and J Wilkinson joint secretary-treasurers and Fred Cooper club
captain. There was also interest again in Matangi. Waikato representatives were Bill and Dan
Bourke
Into the 1930s
Hautapu senior selectors in 1930 were Messrs W Bourke, A Thompson and H Cubis.
Delegates to the Cambridge union were club president J Bourke and H Cubis. T S Cray was
president of union again with V G Boulton secretary-treasurer. Selector was B Wells. Mr
Boulton was elected to the Waikato union.
Cambridge entered a team into Hamilton s Clarke Cup round to give players extra matches.
The side lost 0-3 to City, 3-41 to Old Boys then won two games by default.
Oldtimers talked for years about the day in 1930 when Hautapu juniors were playing Kaipaki
out at Kaipaki. Bill Webber, the scheduled referee, was an 11th hour defection. His
replacement ordered Jim Kelly off! Said Jim "You can t you are not the official referee," and
played on!
Hautapu s H Cubis became Cambridge union president in 1931and the club sent him a letter
of appreciation for his long and untiring services to the club. A feature of the AGM was a
recital about the thrill of flat fishing at Raglan by the Morriss brothers.
Edgar James was union secretary-treasurer and WRU delegate.
The 1932 season marked the end of the 2-3-2 scrum. Hautapu teams tried 3-2-3 and 3-4-1
before settling on the latter. Matangi joined with Tauwhare to become Northern. Cambridge
gave Hamilton a good battle in the Finlay Cup before losing 3-9, however the B combination
was no match for Hamilton and went down 0-25. Squads included A: E Tipping, E
Hamilton, P Stacey, E Shaw, N Garland, R Shaw, Venn, Dan Bourke, S Miller, W Cooper, F
Coulter, D Wilson, Moore, A Warren, Harbutt. Team B: Foster, Bluck, Gibbons, Martin, N
Holmes, Gregory, M Byrne, Curle, R Cooper, R Wilson, A Harris, Chitty, S Griffiths,
Chapman, F Shaw.
Durable forward Dan Bourke (Hautapu) regained Waikato representative honours in 1933, a
decade after his debut, and played well enough to hold his place for four matches. In the
Finlay Cup qualifying Cambridge drew 6-all with Hamilton, but went down 14-15 to
Hamilton in a semi final. The squad included - C Thompson, D Bourke, A Miller, W S
Harbutt, J Kelly, G Tapper. Cambridge schoolboys won the Gwynne Shield.
Hautapu s dance committee for the 1933 season was Messrs A Miller, P Miller, J Watt, N
Holmes, E Cubis, S Smillie, T Verner, G Tapper, H Bellamy. They provided a wide variety
of entertainment and were complimented on their enthusiasm and music selection.
A W Thompson became Hautapu s first life member in 1934. Several speakers took the
opportunity to highly praised his contribution to both the club and the Cambridge sub-union.
In his reply Arty mentioned his family and friends had contributed greatly to his career. He
said the Hautapu environment had been very supportive and he urged the club to continue
along the same lines which he said all the players appreciated, especially when the economic
conditions were difficult.
Dan Bourke again made the Waikato representative side in 1934. Cambridge lost 13-17 then
3-22 to Hamilton. Representative squad included - K Reid, R Burton, A H Peake, Frank
Shaw, N Holmes, T Hogan, W Stewart, R Bryant, S Harbutt, Carswell, P Beer, F Coulter, N
Hall, Burns, M Hewitt, S Allwood, E Forkert, Fred Shaw, A Miller, J Watt, Cooper, D
Bourke
P C Petersen took over from J J Bourke jnr and became Hautapu president in 1935. E H
Cubis was secretary-treasurer and W (Bill) Johnstone club captain. It was the year third grade
rugby came to Hautapu. At the annual muster of players on Bill Johnstone s farm to sort out
teams for the season, Des McGovern asked Tom Bourke to show the youngsters how to put
down a scrum. He did so, the boys enjoyed the experience and asked for a team to be formed.
Bruce Watt was captain. Other players in that team included Lloyd Kidd (later to become
club president and life member), Des McGovern, Alec Holmes, Vic Knight, Jos Williams,
Andy Pulford, Doug Watt, Herbert Arnold, Fred Jones, Sid White, Colin Hubbard, J
Armstrong, George Bartlett and W Sutherland. The team had little fortune in the competition,
but when their coach promised them a dinner if they won the knockout they improved rapidly
to take the honours and so enjoyed a magnificent meal.
Cambridge clubs Hautapu, United, Leamington and Northern were approached by Hamilton
union representatives reforming a joint competition to lift standard. After discussion
Cambridge decided to remain on its own. Cambridge lost three times to Hamilton 6-12, 16-21
and 11-16. Cambridge B lost 18-23 to Hamilton B. The rep squads were A: J Kelly, K Reid,
A H Peake, W Wilson, P Hulme, T Hogan, W Stewart, S Harbutt, A Nicholl, P Beer, M
McDonnell, R Bryant, E Hall, H Miller, J Wallace, J Robinson, J McGovern, J Meanie, P
Hulme, W Smith, Kidd. M Hewitt, Burns, T Mills, Blackett. B squad: Easter, Martin,
Mills,Dodd, Hulme, Meanie, Robinson, Blackett, Griffiths, A Nicholl, J Watt, McGovern, M
Beer, Wetere. W Drake was Cambridge president and G J S McKenzie secretary-treasurer.
The Hautapu annual meeting was held in H G Roberts shop and store.
There was jubilation when Hautapu third grade beat all comers and won the 1936
championship title. New players included Keith Arnold (later to become a Kiwi and All
Black), Syd McKinder, Fred Voyle, Vin Peake, Gordon White, Tom Chard and Dick Jones.
Initially Cambridge decided not to join Hamilton, Taupiri and Waipa in a joint competition,
but at a meeting at end of season Hautapu said there was a need to reassess situation.
Cambridge beat Hamilton 19-14 on King s Birthday, Tuesday, June 23. On Wednesday,
August 19, Hamilton helped Cambridge union celebrate its 50th jubilee with a special match
at Cambridge. Hamilton won an exciting encounter 34-28. Cambridge players for those
matches included - L Haworth, W Smith, W Wilson, R Hulme, N Holmes, K Peake, A
Hardy, W Cooper, M Hewitt, J McGovern, F Coulter, E Hall, P Beer, C Harbutt, J Wallace,
N Hague, I Wards, D Green, J Watt, W Pearson, R Watts
In 1937 Hautapu spoke in favour of Cambridge joining the Stag Trophy inter-club
competition along with the Hamilton, Te Awamutu and Taupiri sub unions. Leamington and
Northern also backed the proposal. The initial proposition was to name teams North and
South, but another meeting decided to name the teams Blues and Stars. Blues colours were
blue and white jerseys and socks, white pants while Stars appeared in black jerseys with
white star, black pants and socks. Selectors appointed were W Bourke, A R Batchelor and W
Maguiness. W J Smellie took Batchelor s place during season. The Blues played 15, won 6,
drew 3, lost 6 to finish fourth equal while Stars played 15, won 5, lost 10 to be seventh equal
of nine. Teams were - Stars: J Kelly, N Holmes, D Leece, M Davies, G Garland, A Dray, A
Hardy, B Brunskill, W Cooper, R Farmer, R Watt, R Kidd, W Fell, J Watt, R Gear, J Moore,
F Cornwall, C Kneebone, J Preece, K Peake, M Fell, K Farmer, J Cornwall, J Wallace. Blues:
L Haworth, W Wilson, N Hague, J Farrelly, A Stevens, C Boyce, D Green, J Meredith, E
Beer, M Hewitt, T Beer, E Hall, P Beer, S Hammond, A Fell, L Kidd, C Broderson, L
Macky, I Brunskill, A Pennell, L Kelly, W Stevens, Box, Trubshaw, Kera, Workman, W
Stewart, Kneebone. Waikato representatives were K Peake (Stars) and P Beer (Blues).
Hautapu s new president was W C (Dick) Arnold with W J Nicholl secretary-treasurer and
Dan Bourke club captain. Cambridge union president was B Brewer with V G Boulton
secretary.
Cambridge decided only to enter one team in the Stag Trophy inter-club competition in 1938
and it finished sixth. The squad included - L Haworth, H Peake, C Kneebone, Charlton, L
Kelly, J Meredith, Gear, Foulds, A E Hall, P Beer, Brown, A B Nicholl, E Beer, L Kidd, R
Watts, M Hewitt, W S Harbutt, Farrelly, J Kelly, Les Kelly, A Pennell, M Fell, M Byrne.
Harbutt, of Hautapu, represented Waikato. Cambridge president B Brewer told the sub union
annual meeting broadcasting of Springbok games the season before had kept people away
>from local matches. He said clashes like that had to be avoided in future. The Hautapu
delegates agreed.
Hautapu entered the 1939 Stag Trophy inter-club competition with Hamilton, Taupiri,
Putaruru and Waipa teams, but along with another Cambridge side, United, withdrew after
first round. One of the main reasons was because of petrol restrictions imposed because of
outbreak of Second World War. Hautapu was able to draw on players from Northern while
Leamington helped United. Some players appeared for both teams.
Hautapu s record was - lost 6-19 to Old Boys; lost 9-11 to Raglan; lost 0-6 to City; lost 3-8 to
Te Awamutu; lost 12-14 to Taupiri; lost 7-11 to Putaruru; lost 5-8 to Frankton; beat
Cambridge United 17-13; lost 12-21 to Technical; beat Te Awamutu Rovers 11-3. The
Hautapu squad included - Turei, Kirkbride, B Watt, N Charleton, T Voyle, F Voyle,
Trubshaw, Cooper, Pennell, Duckworth, Wheeler, Williams, McGovern, R Watts, L Kidd,
Weir, R Kidd, I Nicholl, Seigel, Kennedy, R Nicholl. United s squad was - L Haworth, C
Boyce, J Baxter, Milkaere, Trubshaw, Meredith, N Garland, Saxton, Fell, E Beer, Russell,
Charlton, Climo, P Beer, R Kidd, L Kidd, Farmer, Pye, A E Hall, B Watt, J McGovern, J
Kelly, Williams, M Hewitt, Beer, Les Kelly, Halliday, Fingleton, Cassey.
Dick Arnold was Hautapu club president with Innes Nicholl secretary and Dan Bourke club
captain. Tom Bourke, Mick Beer and Ces Wallace were on the Stag Trophy committee.