Golf Croquet: Doubtless Bay look for fourth straight title

The action will be heating up in the Northland golf croquet interclub series. Photo/Getty Images

The Northland golf croquet interclub series opens on September 18. Last season's joint champions Waipu and Doubtless Bay should lead the way.

Powerhouse Doubtless Bay will be led by Kay Bridge, the 2015-16 intermediate silver medallist, as they chase a fourth straight championship.

However, Waipu have the firm belief they were robbed over the last two seasons and according to club captain, Jean Tafa are the in-form team.

Kerikeri, led by Rilla Jeffs, will be the surprise package depending on who fronts. They have a large squad of experienced players who will be vying for positions.

Neville King will be leading Whangarei and they do have experience right through their ranks.

They are extremely strong at home and any team that underestimates their playing ability will suffer the consequences.

Kensington will be just as tough. Stalwart John Christmas still loves a challenge and is as cunning as a sly fox. He is backed up by a team that nearly toppled co-champions, Doubtless Bay in what was considered to be the toughest game of last season.

Maungakaramea and Kaitaia will be battling to keep out of the cellar. Regional Northland coach George Smith will be assisting Maungakaramea with game strategies.

Smith is known for taking more than a passing interest in whoever he coaches. The same goes for Kaitaia where he will be based this season.

At the moment there are five players in the playing squad, but the biggest impact will be in the near future.

There is a development squad of 24 young players and they will be playing this coming Wednesday in a day tournament at Kaitaia They are from Oruaiti Primary, Herekino Primary, Taipa Area School, and Kaitaia College.