St Swithun’s crowned national lacrosse champions

St Swithun’s under 15 lacrosse side are celebrating after being crowned National Schools Champions earlier this week.

The team were the comeback queens as they came from 2-0 down to defeat Claremont Fan Court 3-2 in the final and take home the Under 15 National Schools Championship trophy.

The side started off strongly and ended up top of their pool on the toss of a coin after finishing with an identical record to Priestnall School. They then defeated Walthamstow Hall 3-1 in the last 16 and Moreton Hall 6-3 in the quarter-finals. A late goal in a tight semi-final against Caterham led to a 3-2 victory and set up a battle against Claremont in the final.

After finding themselves 2-0 down in the final, the team fought back to tie the game at two goals apiece. Poppy then scored the decisive goal in the final minutes to clinch the national crown.

Team captain Natasha said: “It was a fabulous day from start to finish, emotions and stakes were high. The positive vibes started right at the start of the day and were intensified after every single match and every single win. But the best feeling in the world was lifting that trophy at the end knowing that the tireless hours of hard work and training in the wet and rain had paid off and every single member of the team had put their 100% into the whole season. I remember looking at everyone smiling and laughing thinking that we had made it as the best U15 team in the country. Everyone worked so well together and I am so proud to captain such a fantastic team.”

Member of the team Eliza added: “Our team spirit shone throughout the day, and especially before the big moments, such as the nerve-wracking final! To get us hyped up and all in the mood, we played our team song and danced in a massive huddle. This united us as a team, and prepared us to stick together throughout the tense moments. Coming back from 2-0 down in the final showed our grit, ruthlessness and determination. It was an amazing day, and one that we will never forget.”

Lacrosse coach Tia Hislop said: “I could not be more proud of these girls. They showed incredible resilience, discipline and support for each other in a number of tough games to make the final. They kept their composure and dared to believe when it mattered the most and left all their energy and effort on the pitch. All of our teams have done St Swithun’s proud and I am so thrilled for this team to be taking home the U15 National Schools championship trophy.”

St Swithun’s Headmistress Jane Gandee added: “We are delighted for the girls and everybody involved in lacrosse at the school. The way the team were able to relax under pressure and embrace the fun of playing together is a lesson to all of us.”