ABSTRACT
The relative strengths of the codes were a crucial factor when the longexpected war with Germany was announced on 4 August 1914. Neither game made any immediate alterations because no one knew how long the hostilities would last and the end of the season was near. By early 1915 the situation had changed. The war was not over by Christmas, as some had predicted, and it was obvious Australians would play a part in the fighting. Cognizant of this, League nevertheless decided to continue its competition. There is little doubt that this action was prompted by a desire not to forfeit the achievements made since its inception in Australia. It chose to continue because, even though it was firmly the people's choice as a spectacle, the rival code could not be discounted. To cease competition would be a risky proposition: hard-earned advantages in terms of grounds, popular patronage and revenue would be lost; Union, with far greater infrastructure and player support, may have been able to re-establish, rebuild and even be competitive for spectators after the cessation of hostilities.
