John Peard (8 Tests) and former referee Ron Pearce, spent a week or so enjoying the Hawaiian sunshine in early August. While there, they caught up with former Newtown and Manly player, Allan Maddalena. Allan played 79 first grade matches for Newtown from 1967 to 1971 and then 10 games for Manly. The blonde haired Wollongong Wests fullback also represented NSW in two games in 1966, after starring for Southern Division in their 17-8 win over the touring Great Britain side at the Wollongong Showground that year. Allan now lives in Honolulu and has a successful swimming pool maintenance business.
While in the friendly islands, John and Ron made contact with the local rugby league. They spent time with National USA team manager, Jack Breen and attended a night match. Both men were surprised and quite impressed with the standard of play in the match. Ron also gave some refereeing tips to the local whistle blower.
They also gave Jack Breen some Men of League membership forms, magazines, T-shirts, caps and a rule book. The Americans showed considerable interest in our Men of League organisation.