A CAVERSHAM independent school is celebrating sporting triumph.
Queen Anne’s School’s U19A lacrosse team was crowned National Champions at the National Schools Lacrosse Tournament this month.
Headteacher Elaine Purves said: “Our A and B teams both fought so hard and were absolute superstars.
“There was unwavering support from parents, staff and students, whose encouragement provided an invaluable boost throughout the tournament – it was a very emotional day.
“The atmosphere was amazing and the U19A team’s win as national champions reflects their hard work and dedication.”
During the competition, hosted by Aldershot Garrison Sports Fields, the school’s five competing teams showed strong spirits in a tough competition.
The U19As fought through a fiercely contested two-days of competition in the championship division to secure the title of National Champions for the first time in nearly thirty years.
Their path to victory was marked by resilience, determination, and outstanding teamwork, culminating in a hard-fought 3-2 victory over St Catherine’s, Bramley in the final.
Queen Anne’s struck first, only for their opponents to equalise.
But the team responded immediately, regaining the lead and adding two more goals in the closing minutes – leading to a momentous victory as the final whistle sparked celebrations.
Head Coach Nick Blackwell, said: “The girls dug deep and prepared really well.
“They took the competition in their stride and just got better and better.”
Queen Anne’s sent five teams to this year’s tournament.
The U19B team won 5-1 against North London Collegiate and 3-1 against Marlborough College, making it to the semi-finals in Division 2.
The U15A team was placed in the top 16 schools, winning 3-2 against Haberdasher’s Elstree.
The U14As finished fifth, winning 4-2 against Withington Girls School.
The U13 team in their first big tournament, won an impressive three matches against their opponents, finishing in the top 16 schools.
Captains Mary Briscoe and Lara Moore led the team with exceptional leadership, guiding their squad through the highs and lows of the competition with remarkable poise.
Mary said: “It was a rollercoaster of a tournament.
“We lost three matches throughout the weekend, but I truly believe that we learned and adapted from our mistakes in those matches which led us to victory overall.
“The girls are such amazing individuals on and off the pitch, the work ethic in this group is insane.
“We are so excited to come back to school to celebrate with the rest of the community after showing the lacrosse world what Queen Anne’s is all about.”
Lara, in her final year at Queen Anne’s, added: “Captaining this team to a national championship in my final year is an indescribable feeling.
“Every ounce of hard work, sacrifice and trust we put into each other paid off in the best way possible.
“This team truly deserved it – our resilience, grit and commitment to one another set us apart.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better coach, Mr Blackwell, for continually driving us to be the best we can be all throughout the season.
“Leading this team has been an honour, and there’s no better way to close this chapter than as national champions.”
For information, visit: qas.org.uk
