Friday Headlines
the weekly newsletter from EHS
Netballers Head to GSA Tournament
06 October 2023
On Friday afternoon, a group of Year 8 and 9 netballers left school with determination and high hopes for success at the Girls Schools Association's (GSA) Condover netball tournament, a prestigious tournament which takes place at the beginning of the school netball season.
Although we were there to play netball, lots of exciting activities were planned such as laser quest and abseiling. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by staff and couldn’t wait to get stuck into our first activity, indoor caving, where we had to demonstrate excellent team work skills by finding our teammates who were ‘stuck’. Later on in the evening was a Q&A from England netball player, Nat Panagarry, about her netball journey and what it takes to become a professional.
It was an early start on Saturday morning, but after a full English breakfast (with some even managing room for a pain au chocolat!) all of the girls were excited for a full day of netball. Hosted by Shrewsbury School, the tournament was organised so that Year 8 and 9 alternated play all day which meant that we could support each other in true EHS style. There was some excellent netball on display with both teams securing victories in some tightly-contested games. Nat Panagarry watched our matches and we even had the opportunity to get a photo with her! At the end of Saturday’s tournament we made our way back to Condover Hall to enjoy some more activities; laser tag and rope courses where we were pushed out of our comfort zones. Arguably, the best part of the evening was the tuck shop where we could buy all sorts of sweets and chocolates, even pot noodles!
Sunday’s tournament was a placing tournament; each team was entered into the trophy, cup or plate competition depending on their success from the day before. The energy and enthusiasm in both teams was high and we were ready for another day of netball. Both teams followed the instructions given and played clear, simple netball; much to our teachers’ delight, it paid off! The U14s made it to the semi-finals of the cup competition but unfortunately suffered a narrow loss which resulted in a 4th place finish overall. The U13s also finished in 4th place in plate competition after a tough semi-final game. It wasn’t to be but we are determined to improve our position next year!
We are thankful for Miss Masterson, Miss Roye, Mrs Batchelor, Miss Lane and Mrs Hewison for giving up their weekend. Hopefully we will carry the experience with us for the rest of the reason.
Congratulations, team!
Harleena and Keira, Year 9
