Coupe de France de Netball 2022
On Saturday 24th September, the BSP hosted the second annual Coupe de France de Netball tournament. There were 5 divisions and over 20 different teams that travelled to the BSP from all over France.
The BSP U14 team, whose captain was Mila, played very well against LMML and Lycée Sharks. The hard work and commitment shown by our players was admirable, particularly when they had to face the slippery astro-turf and rainy weather! They were extremely pleased to make it to the final against LMML, but unfortunately, they lost. Each player showed determination and worked together really well even when faced with the challenge of working with players from another team to make up the numbers. The most valuable player, as identified by the Netball France umpires, was Theo.
The BSP U18s, captained by myself, played extremely confidently considering they had only had one practice together as a team, with new members joining that week. The games were fast paced, with strict umpiring and the standard of play was high. In their division, there were teams from Maisons-Lafitte, Toulouse and St. Germain-en-Laye. Of the six matches they played, the winning result of 22-4 against the Lycée Sharks was the most pleasing. Overall, out of the six games, the U18s won four, which ensured them a place in the final against LMML. It was an energetic game, and nobody knew which way the game would go. Unfortunately, it did not go as wished, and the BSP U18s came second in their division. The most valuable player, as identified by the Netball France umpires, was Emilia.
After the tournament, talent scouts from Netball France offered four BSP players the opportunity to trial for the new U21 squad to represent France. These players were Francesca, Emilia, Agniia and myself.
Not only did the BSP field two squads but other teams also included a number of BSP pupils. Notably BSP was represented in the winning LMML teams, who won both of the junior divisions. Although these students were not playing for the BSP they were valuable players on the day and should be praised by the School community.
Both BSP netball teams are extremely grateful for the time and commitment Mrs Mahé and Mrs Sawyer gave to ensure that we could participate in this tournament, as it would not have happened without their support and dedication.
As U18s captain, I am very proud of all of the BSP netball players who played that day, either be it in the BSP teams or others. It was long and tiring but every player represented the school in the best possible way. Even though we were not successful on the day, both teams gained experience which will serve them well in future matches.
This tournament has truly shown me how good our netball players are whatever the challenge they face. The players gave their all during their matches and should be immensely proud of themselves. As the U18s captain I could not asked for more dedication and perseverance from any of the netball players who are pupils at the BSP.
Thank you.
Mira, Year 13
