Regional Schools Finals 2011
The Regional Schools final took place at Hassenbrook School, Essex, on the 22nd January. The day was filled with strong competition from schools all over the region. Three of the Regional Academy athletes who took part give their account of the day
Lottie Morrison is from The Broxbourne School in Hertfordshire.
“I am 15 years old and was selected by my school to play for the U16 National squad which was a great honour.
We started training as a team during the school holidays in August 2010 and played a number of friendly games against local schools to increase our skill level and teamwork. I felt we were fit, ready for action and had a game plan.
Our first round was County Championship (Hertfordshire) at Stanborough in September and we went through as runners up, which we were pleased with as the standard of netball had been high. Then it was back to training - at least 2 or 3 times a week, which included fitness, netball skills and tactics – we meant business!
On the day of the Regional Round we were very excited but nervous as we knew that every game would be hard as the standard was so high and we could not afford to lose any games. We played well and only lost 1 game all day but we came 3rd in our league, so unfortunately didn't make it to the semi-finals.
The day was very well organised, with good umpires and great sportsmanship from all the other schools teams we played. I had a fantastic day and feel very privileged to have represented my school with my friends and a great big thank you for all the support and work from the school teachers.”
Lucy Dudley also competed in the U16 section and here shares her experience.
“I captained my school team in this year’s U16 School Nationals. This is the 3rd time I have had the privilege of playing in this tournament and I always really enjoy it. The netball played was of a high standard, much higher than the standard we play in our local school league.
It was also good to have independent officials and to be umpired at a high level. It is exciting knowing that there are scouts watching the games and it is a great opportunity for talented players to be spotted that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The day was a tiring one, not just because of the netball played, but it was full of adrenalin rushes too. As the matches are fairly short, there is not much room for error and mistakes can prove costly. For our school it was a big achievement to qualify for the Regional round and it was good to have the support of some of our teachers who came down to watch.
Our team was rather nervous to start with as they were not used to playing in such competition – this showed in our first match, but we came back stronger after that. Overall it was a good team performance and an opportunity for us to work on team building and becoming more competitive.
Through playing at this high level, we have learnt what areas we need to work on and will concentrate on these in our school training to help improve the team for the future.
For me personally I always enjoy playing netball, especially this type of competition. I also really enjoyed watching some of the other games played, especially some of the U19 matches. I now look forward to next year and stepping up to the challenges of the next age group.”
Mikki Austin is a student at SEEVIC played in the U19 section, gives an overview of the day.
"Early morning on Saturday the 22nd January, Schools from all over the region met to compete in the National schools - Regional round tournament, the anticipation of this tournament had built up over time, with all teams training hard in preparation for the day.
From the start the atmosphere was tense, with some stiff competition in the rounds, it was anyone’s to win, the tough weather conditions making it hard for each team to contend with. As each game passed, all teams knew that each goal was vital to securing a place in the semi-finals.
With some brilliant defence constantly turning over ball, amazing mid court play to link with shooters who took on the responsibility or scoring the goals. The round stages finished, the semi-final line ups were announced, South East Essex VI College (SEEVIC) vs. Palmers, a highly anticipated fixture as each team are very familiar with each other, as we are local rivals and play each other regularly.
Warm-up for the game commenced, both teams quiet, the atmosphere tense, stepping out on court, both teams ready to give it their all. After half time SEEVIC were up by 2, but they knew they still had a fight on their hands, Palmers were not likely to give up. Despite SEEVIC’s best efforts some brilliant interceptions by the defence and amazing shooting at vital times, Palmers pulled it back and went on to gain the win and a place in the final again Sharnbrook. Overall the day was a great experience for all teams that were involved, with some brilliant netball being played constantly throughout the tournament and all teams showing just how good the East region is at netball.”
Dannielle Titmuss reflected on the day.
I can only echo Mikki's comments – this really was a fantastic display of netball, highlighting how strongly the sport is contested within the East Region. To all those who got through to the Final Round we wish you the best .
