TOUR TO BARBADOS
During October half term , we were lucky enough to depart to Barbados for a nine-day netball tour . This allowed for a whole different experience of the sport ; we trained with professional coaches from the local area and played a range of matches against clubs and schools from the island .
The matches were always lively , gathering a crowd of people who lived nearby and watched attentively , encouraging us to play to the best of our ability . We trained early in the morning to avoid the heat , using the time to develop new skills which we could then put into practice during our matches . Despite the impressive opposition and their large number of supporters , both teams managed to remain undefeated .
As a team , most of us had never trained or played together before . We learned from each other ’ s strengths throughout the matches and training , and over the course of the trip became a cohesive and communicative team . It felt very rewarding to see such progression of performance in such a short period of time .
Off the court , it was also a great bonding experience between students ranging from Year 10 to Upper Sixth . We would often lose track of time swimming in the sea or playing endless games of Uno . We went on a snorkel tour where we found ourselves face to face with turtles , stingrays and many other wild creatures – some of which were large and unexpected , resulting in some panicked shrieks from us all ! We also did a jeep safari around the island , where we beheld an unbelievable panoramic view and had some adventurous off-roading , which included some chaotic singing and screaming .
Overall , it was one of my most incredible experiences , filled with wonderful surprises . Thank you to all the staff who took time to organise and accompany us on such a wonderful trip !
Clara Mourgue D ’ Algue , Lower Sixth
SEVENOAKS SCHOOL 2022-2023 91