Our Year U8 & U9 ‘A’ teams took part in a fixture against Stonar School today. Each team played twice, with two 10 minute halves making the duration of each game. The results were as follows:

The U8 ‘A’ team were excited and ready for action. They warmed up well and practiced some hard, accurate passing before the opposition arrived. They then took to the post to practise their shooting which really did pay off in the game! They were just outstanding. This was their first ever Netball fixture and with only 3 lessons under their belt, were new to both the rules and concepts of the game. Nevertheless, they went out with great spirit and enthusiasm, and produced some of the best Netball I have seen played at this age. Not really knowing the true capabilities of the team, they put together some great long balls to move the ball past the opposition on several occasions. They retained the ball well and made interception after interception. They created numerous scoring opportunities which they put away with great confidence. They have the potential to be a truly exceptional team, and with such talent amongst amongst the year group, look forward to working with them closely over the next few years! Wow what a performance by all! The final scores meant that the Royal High won the first game 2-0 and the second game 3-0. Well done to all.

The U9 ‘A’ team followed a close picture to the U8’s! With an amazing start from the centre, they were off and running and 1-0 up in the first few minutes! They moved the ball beautifully across the width of the court, using both long and short ball to outwit the opposition. At half time, some team changes were made, and the girls found themselves defending more than they would have liked! However, they still managed to put together some excellent passages of play, practicing key skills and strategies which I had asked them to use. The final result meant that the girls lost the first match 2-1….

…However, with a stern team talk from Miss Elsley, and a few ideas as to where to put things right, the girls were fired up and ready to go again, but this time with more determination than ever! They were exceptional! They moved the ball beautifully up and down the court, moving forwards and backwards, ensuring good, safe accurate passes throughout. They mixed up the use of their long ball and the opposition were left standing! Their whole team commitment to attack and defence was inspirational and the tone of the game had somewhat changed. They were dominant throughout and put nearly every shot away in the goal. Even with team changes at half time, the girls remained focussed and determined. The final score  was a 7-0 victory. Well done to all! I cannot wait to watch this team progress over the next couple of years. Like the Year 3’s, they really could be something special.

Player of the match: Ellie McKenzie for her accuracy of passing and mature approach to the game.

Than you once again to all the parents who came to support, it was great to see so many of you there!  Thank you also to Mr Baxter and Mr Beresford for kindly serving the match teas afterwards! A great team effort by all.