[reds1]

June 1, 1956

COMMISSIONER CALLING IT QUITS
SIR WESTFALL RETIRING AT END OF NEXT SEASON, CITING POOR HEALTH

Queensland, Dunwich (BP) – The only Commissioner the United Leagues has ever known is calling it a day. Sir David Westfall, who was prevailed upon by King William back in 1936 to serve as the United Leagues’ first Commissioner, announced this morning that the upcoming season will be his last. Under the advice of his doctors as well as out of consideration for his wife Sarah, of 51 years, Sir Westfall has decided that now is the time to begin the transition and allow new leadership to take the reins.

Although the timing caught many within the Leagues off-guard, the decision itself was not wholly unexpected. Ever since he suffered the first of a series of heart attacks in August of last year, the 73-year-old Commissioner has struggled to regain his strength and return to his duties full-time. It is believed his most recent attack occurred in late March, preventing him from being on hand to personally award the United Cup to the triumphant Pulberry Trolleys the following month.

Speaking at a press conference held at his home in Queensland where he continues to convalesce, Sir Westfall spoke of his time as Commissioner over the past 19 years: “It has been an absolute privilege to have served as the United Leagues’ Commissioner during its formative years and to witness its continued growth right up to the present time. But the United Leagues needs and deserves a full-time commissioner. That is, I fear, something I can longer provide.”

The Commissioner stressed that the decision to step down was his and his alone and that he was not pressured one way or another.

“My doctors advise me that my prognosis for a full recovery is good. Nevertheless, it is evident that the demands of the Commissioner’s Office are now more than I can bear. Thus, I have informed His Majesty that of my intention to step down at the end of next season and assist in a smooth transition once the selection of a new commissioner has been made.”

“A Decision I Have Never Regretted”

At the time of his appointment as Commissioner back in February 1936, Sir Westfall was one of the most respected men in the country, owing to his service during the Braeland civil war and the subsequent role he played in the government-in-exile leading the resistance to the repressive regime that took power. Several historians site Westfall’s leadership as being crucial to the peaceful transfer of power that took place in 1935. But the unassuming medical man never sought the limelight and quietly returned to his practice soon after the monarchy was restored. That is, until a grateful young King tapped him for the job as Commissioner of the fledgling United Leagues.

Immediately following Sir Westfall’s press conference, King William issued a statement praising the Commissioner for his invaluable contributions to the success of the United Leagues.

“The appointment of Sir David as Commissioner was, without question, the easiest decision I made in the early days of my Kingship. It is a decision I have never regretted. From weathering the war years and the loss of Japanese-born players to the more recent labour strife and upheaval in the ownership ranks, not to speak of steering a fledgling new league through it inevitable growing pains, David’s tact and skill has repeatedly carried the day, ensuring the United Leagues continue on a sure footing going forward. I wish my dear friend nothing but success going forward and to convey my personal as well as the nation’s eternal gratitude.”

Search for New Commissioner Begins

The questions now become who will replace the outgoing Commissioner and when. In response to a reporter’s query on the subject, Sir Westfall stated that he will not be personally involved in the selection process but will work with whoever is ultimately chosen.

“I have spoken with the King,” continued Sir Westfall, “and he will be personally involved guiding the selection process, working with the owner and player representatives on narrowing down the candidates that would be acceptable to both parties.”

The Commissioner, however, could not give a precise answer as to when the selection would be finalized, but a Palace spokesman later revealed that the hope is to have a new Commissioner named by the All-Star break, so as to have sufficient time for a smooth transfer of the Office.