Football history

ASSOCIATION GAME 167
of the game. Long before professionalism was openly recog-
nised by the Football Association, hundreds of fine players
who devoted their services throughout a season to one club
received in one form or another, either as 'expenses' or as
testimonials,' or as wages from some nominal employment,
a monetary return for their skilful play. At first the move-
ment towards professionalism was strenuously opposed by the
majority of the amateurs, who attempted to debar any player
from taking part in a match if he accepted any remuneration
for his services. The only result was to drive professionalism
below the surface, as the money was paid secretly instead of
openly. Eventually, however, open and undisguised pro-
fessionalism was not only allowed but encouraged by the
Association, which made provision for the registration of
players,' and to-day 'professional' football play under Asso-
ciation rules is one of the institutions of the time.