This year’s Netball Borough Championships took REFSPECT by storm. With 15 teams competing over the course of the day, the players got to develop so many key netball skills including body management and control, defending, positioning and passing to name but a few. There were lots of close and exciting matches with players giving their all to help their team achieve its best. But the one thing that stood out the most for the MSSP team was the fair play, respect and kindness shown by all of the players towards their team mates, opposition and to the fantastic leaders from Ricards Lodge. Even when matches were close and emotions ran high, the children managed themselves impeccably.
12 Sports Leaders from Ricards had been trained as umpires for the event and also had the chance to develop and practise their officiating skills at the recent Custer Netball Festival. They took onboard feedback well and continued to develop and impress at the Champs today. Maintaining focus throughout and being fair, confident and assertive in their decisions and communication.
The morning session involved 4 groups of four teams (and one of 3) playing round robins. This was followed by the final stages in the afternoon where players were seeded and then played on for their final standings 1- 15.
In a close final which had to go into 1 minute of golden goal, extra time, Poplar were narrowly beaten by Bishop Gilpin 2 goals to 3. Both teams worked so hard and it was a great match to watch.
By the end of the tournament all the schools had voted and the REFSPECT award was given to Joseph Hood Primary School. They thoroughly deserved the prestigious accolade after a day full of great team work, respect, determination and self belief.
A huge well done to all our teams and especially to our Sports Leaders – we couldn’t have run such a fun and positive competition without them. Many thanks to Ricards Lodge for hosting and supporting another MSSP Primary School event.
Good luck to Bishop Gilpin who will represent Merton at the LYG School Games Finals!!