CROQUET NEWS:  Croquet Ace Selected in State Development Squad

24 August 2007
Murray Bridge, South Australia, Australia
in Murray Valley Standard, Murray Bridge, South Australia, Australia

On target: Murray Bridge man Allan Haywood was recently selected to take part in the State croquet development.

Murray Bridge croquet ace Allan Haywood has recently been selected in the State croquet development squad.

He has already attended a theory class and will follow this up with practice sessions.

Haywood was introduced to croquet by his grandparents in 1975.

He was the youngest player to play for Murray Bridge and in 1976 he was the C grade club champion.

He then repeated the feat in 1977 and 1978.

In 1977 Haywood won the JF Harvey C grade State championship, being the youngest player to win the medal.

Due to work commitments Haywood stopped playing croquet in 1981, but after a 25-year break, he returned to the sport he loved.

Playing for both Murray Bridge and Mount Barker croquet clubs, it didn't take long for Haywood to get back into his unique style.

It was only a matter of time before his talents were spotted by the State selectors.

Haywood is vice captain at the Murray Bridge Croquet Club.

He has recently completed his A beginners coaching course and plans to coach at a higher level later this year.

"Many parents don't want their children playing contact sports and croquet is the perfect alternative, it is challenging both mentally and physically," Haywood said.

"Murray Bridge is a great club and I'm happy to give my time to help anyone who wants to take up this wonderful sport."