The weekend began at the English Institute of Sport (EIS) in Sheffield for the U19 England Netball National Schools Finals. This was far from just another tournament; for many in this squad, the weekend marked the culmination of an extraordinary five-year journey. Several players have reached the National Finals in every eligible year of their school career – starting as U14s, frequently playing up through the age groups, and now leading the way as seniors. Facing off against the finest teams in the country, the girls delivered a brilliant day of netball.

With little time to rest, the squad transitioned to the Sister n Sport Top 4 on Tuesday to face the national champions, Berkhamsted School. In a courageous performance, the team led for the vast majority of the match, showcasing tactical precision and grit. In a heart-pounding finish, Berkhamsted managed to snatch the lead in the final minutes, with our girls eventually losing out by the narrowest of margins – just a single point. The squad eventually finished 4th in the tournament after another incredibly tight second match, which was also decided by just one point. To compete so closely with the top four teams in the country after a grueling weekend of competition is a remarkable feat of athleticism.

Reflecting on the week, Mrs Manson described the team’s performance as phenomenal, noting that the experience of competing at such a high level was truly amazing. While the results were agonisingly close – placing the team within touching distance of the top two in the country – the focus remains on the incredible bond within the squad. Special mention must go to Nancy Tidy, who served as Captain with distinction, and to sister Hettie, who was awarded Player of the Match in the final game of the tournament.

As our Year 13 students – Nancy Tidy, Lucia Patridge, Charlotte D’Arcy, Tara Glennan and Holly Biggin Wilcox – prepare to conclude their school netball careers, we celebrate not just their netball ability, but their character. Mrs Manson noted that they truly are an awesome group both on and off the court, and that the best part of the trip was seeing them all together – not just as teammates, but as genuine friends. A massive well done to the entire squad for a historic week of netball and for representing WGHS with such spirit.