Michaelmas Term Sports Round-Up

Michaelmas Term Sports Round-Up

As we start the Christmas break, it provides a perfect time to reflect on what has been an incredibly busy and fulfilling Michaelmas term. There has been much to celebrate, and the pupils continually impress us with their sporting achievements, both individually and collectively in their teams. Fundamental to our programme is the pupils' desire to improve, to train, and to challenge themselves to be better performers. It has been fantastic to see so many pupils represent the College, make significant progress in their sports and benefiting  from engaging in competitive sports.

Rugby
The College's rugby teams have had a successful season, with the 1st XV competing in the prestigious St. Joseph’s Ipswich Festival and becoming the Shield Champions for 2024. Our partnership with Leicester Tigers continues to go from strength to strength, with a significant number of pupils involved in the Academy.  The strength of the Senior programme is reflected in the performances of the 2^nd XV who have had a phenomenal season.  Erly success galvanised the side, and with both strength in ability and camaraderie, the team finished their season with a thrilling one point win against strong opposition.  Our commitment remains focused on the development of all players, promoting excellence, high-performance behaviours, and enjoyment at all levels. Experiencing competitive sport in a different culture is an invaluable experience and one which help pupils learn much about themselves – at the time of writing the 1st XV are  competing in the Global Schools Challenge in South Africa and we look forward to watching their performances (live streamed from SA) and hearing about their experiences when we return in January.

Hockey
Hockey at Denstone is thriving. With over 300 pupils representing the College in more than 150 fixtures this term, there has been significant progress both in participation and success. The Girls 1st XI finished the term at the top of their Region in the Tier 1 National Competition, and we wish them all the best as they aim to consolidate their position in their final two league games taking place next term. Additionally, the Boys 1st XI remains unbeaten and are placed 3rd in our regional group. Hockey becomes the prominent sport for the boys in the Lent term. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Falconer for all his work on developing the Hockey programme during his time here.  He has worked tirelessly to raise the profile of Hockey at Denstone and we wish him and his family well in their new ventures.

Netball
Our netballers have enjoyed increased opportunities to train and compete, emerging as County Champions at both U14 and U18 levels. Both teams secured places in the Regional Round of the National Schools Competition, which will take place in February. Our U13 netballers reached the 4th Round of the National Schools Cup and were placed in the top 16 teams in the country – a brilliant and impressive achievement. Netball becomes our core sport for girls in the Lent term, and we look forward to many pupils having the opportunity to improve and compete in the weeks and months ahead.

Other Sports
Cricket and football also featured this term.  The U13 and U15 girls were both runners ups in the Staffordshire County Indoor cricket tournaments and it has been great to see the Winter training programme for Cricket get under way. 

The boys have had impressive runs in the ISFA Cup at Senior, U15 and U13 level. We look forward to more competitive opportunities for our football programme next term.

The College's inclusive approach ensures opportunities for all pupils to engage in sports, with dedicated coaching across all levels with the aim that these opportunities enthuse and motivate pupils to work hard and want to take part.  Denstone College's commitment to developing talent and fostering enjoyment across its sports programmes ensures it remains a hub for sporting development. For detailed results and schedules, please visit our sports website.

We take this opportunity to thank all parents, friends, and visitors for their support at fixtures throughout the term and look forward to more sporting success next term. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas!