Rotherham Netball Finals Day proved to be an exciting and competitive event, with all year groups battling through tough opposition from seven different schools. The standard of play was high throughout, with determination, teamwork, and resilience on display across every match.
The Year 7 team narrowly missed out on a place in the final after a hard-fought semi-final against Aston. Despite a strong performance, they were edged out 6–3 in a competitive game that showcased their potential and fighting spirit.
Year 8 faced Wath in their semi-final and encountered tough opposition. They worked tirelessly throughout but ultimately lost by five goals. The team showed excellent effort and determination against a well-organised side.
Year 9 also reached the semi-final stage, where they played Wales. Despite a committed performance, they were unable to secure a place in the final. Despite the result, the squad produced some excellent passages of play and should be proud of their performance on Finals Day.
The Year 10 competition was played as a triangular fixture against Wath and Brinsworth. Wickersley comfortably beat Brinsworth, setting up a decisive match against Wath, who were two-time champions. Knowing that victory would crown them Rotherham champions, Wickersley made an aggressive start and maintained that intensity throughout. Leading from the opening whistle, they delivered an outstanding team performance to win 17–12 and secured the title- a fantastic achievement for the squad.
The Year 11’s cruised into the final after a confident win over Brinsworth, setting up a showdown with Wales. The final proved to be one of the most exciting in recent years. It was goal-for-goal throughout, with neither team able to pull away, and the game ended 16-16 at full time. Two minutes of extra time could not separate the sides, sending the match to golden goal. Showing incredible composure under pressure, Tilly Barker stepped up and, with nerves of steel, scored the winning goal to seal a dramatic victory.
The Sixth Form team played their final on Wednesday against Wath. It was an incredible standard of play throughout a highly physical game, where there was no room for error. It was goal-for-goal with nothing splitting the teams at half time. In the third quarter, Wickersley pulled away to create a five-goal lead going into the final quarter. A huge squad performance, combined with desire to win and passion to extend the lead, saw Wickersley dominate the closing stages and secure a 25–33 victory- an outstanding performance from everyone involved.
Overall, it was a brilliant Finals Day, with every team demonstrating commitment, resilience, and excellent sportsmanship. A huge congratulations to all players involved, and especially to the Y10, Y11s and Sixth Form squads who are now Rotherham Champions!
#WeAreProudOfOurAchievements
