Ann Smart and President’s Cup Netball Finals 2014

April 3, 2014

Saturday 29th March saw the finals of the Ann Smart and President’s Cup netball tournament.

This competition encompasses the top eight schools in Wales, with each qualifying school winning their respective county championship. This year, HMSG were one of only two schools in Wales to have a qualifying team in both championships.

The U18 took to the court in the very first round, beating Welshpool in an extremely close battle, 8-7. More victories followed against Bryntirion School, Brynfail and St Teilos followed. Connah’s Quay, last years champions, were always going to be tough opposition and although HMSG lost, they were one of only two schools to gain half score, 8-14. Following analysis of the current standings, HMSG knew they had to beat Ysgol Gyfun Gwyr for the runners up spot. An intense battle took place, with each turnover ball being converted, but eventually, they ran out 8-7 winners. A final victory against Ysgol Dyffryn Aman secured the runners up spot to Connah’s Quay High School. Captain Bella proudly led the team of herself, Poppy, Holly, Becky, Tess, Millie, Emanuella and Alison up to receive their trophies and Becky, Poppy and Holly were announced as players selected as part of the top twenty performers in the tournament.

The U16 competition was a hard, tough tournament, littered with numerous international players, including our very own Evie. A great start ensured comfortable victories over Gwernyfyd High School, Brynteg School and Ysgol David Hughes. Corpus Christi were always going to prove tough opposition and an unfortunate loss in a very tough match meant spirits dropped. Further losses against Hawardean High School (the eventual winners) and Bishopston School left HMSG with a final battle to gain a place in the top half of the competition. An outstanding performance against Ysgol Duffryn Aman gave HMSG fourth place, and an improvement of one place from last year. Well done to Laura, Jenny, Megan, Evie, Poppy, Ellie, Seremia and Annabel. International U15 player Evie was announced as one of the top twenty players.

HMSG can proudly say that our U18 and U16 netball teams are 2nd and 4th in Wales, respectively. Given the strength of our rowing, lacrosse, hockey and dance, that is some achievement.

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