Sydenham High’s Senior and Junior sports teams have had a busy week – on the netball court, on the hockey pitch, and in the pool.
First off, the U15 netball team had a fantastic day at Nottingham High School playing in the latest GDST rally. Twenty-four schools were represented and the standard was exceptionally high. Each of the eight players made a huge contribution to the team and should be proud of their achievements. The teams didn’t get off to the best start, losing their first game. However, the players quickly recognised where they needed to improve and went on to beat both Northampton High and Oxford High in the next two games so that by lunchtime the team tally was six wins out of eight, putting Sydenham High at the top of the leader board. The last three games brought tough opposition and a couple of errors against Newcastle High cost the team that game. In the final play-off the team faced Nottingham High and were unlucky to lose in a well-balanced match.
The players showed high levels of versatility throughout the tournament, performing well in two or more positions. Issy, Olivia and Greta were consistent in their goal scoring and team captain, Ella, played outstanding netball, communicating with all players, offering constructive advice, directing play, and dominating her end of the court. Mrs Calvert commented: “She was an excellent role model, particularly to the Junior squad when they came out to spectate. Centre court players Sophie, Charlotte and Margaux really worked on set plays for centre passes as well as denying space and pressuring the opposition.”
Meanwhile the Junior swimmers thoroughly enjoyed their gala at the same rally. Eighteen schools competed with over 200 swimmers and the level of swimming was exceptionally high. The girls swam really well over both 25m and 50m and showed excellent speed and stamina, the team finishing14th overall. Congratulations to all swimmers who were further inspired after their endeavours in the pool by meeting GB Paralympic gold medalist Ellie Robinson who is a current pupil at Northampton High. Hopefully this will also help them prepare to take part in the JAGS Biathlon competition next week.
Sticking with swimming, Senior School swimmers have seen success at a JAGS gala with Olivia and Lottie (year 7) both winning their races against local rivals JAGS and Alleyn’s. They also had success at St Dunstan’s gala with the squad beating both JAGS and the hosts. The A and B team came second overall.
