We are exceptionally proud of our U11 Netball team who have won the IAPS National Finals Plate Competition.

Our girls qualified for the National Finals after been crowned champions of the Regional Finals, which were held at Sedbergh School in early February.

The team travelled down to Rugby School in Warwickshire for the Nationals, brilliantly backed by a large number of parent supporters.

After comfortably winning their opening two group games, our netballers were beaten in the next two contests. Undeterred, the girls showed great fortitude and resilience to triumph 7-6 in their final group game. The closely fought victory secured them a 3rd place finish in the group and they subsequently progressed into the Plate Competition Quarter Final.

After beating Godstowe 8-5 in the Quarter Finals, and defeating Solihull 8-5 in the Semis, Richmond House were just one win away from lifting the Plate.

The Final, played against a strong Heath Mount School outfit, was closely contested. At the halfway stage the teams were level at 5-5 and the game was in the balance, but our team of superstars, who had fought all day, were not to be outdone. Digging deep, they wrestled back control and with momentum on their side they scored three late goals. Moments after the final goal was scored, the umpire loudly sounded their whistle, drawing the game to a close, to send the mighty Richmond House 8, their coaches and their supporters, into a frenzy.

The Richmond House U11 Netball team of 2022/23, IAPS National Finals Plate Winners. History makers.

After finally gathering her words, our completely overwhelmed Headteacher, Mrs Young, commented:

“This is the pinnacle of the school’s sporting achievement in my 11 years at Richmond House. I am proud beyond words.

This is a special group of girls who have worked tirelessly in their time at Richmond House, showing an incredible amount of dedication and passion for the sport. They have worked towards this since Year 2, and I am sure the girls would agree that lifting the Plate has made all that hard work worthwhile.

This Plate was won by 8 incredibly special players who all, at different times throughout the tournament, stepped up to make their mark before handing the baton of brilliance onto a teammate.

I believe the team’s success came from the versatility of the playing group. Each player was able to comfortable play, and perform, in each position, which is a real testament to the exceptional coaching they have received from their outstanding Coach, Miss Silver.

The girls showed real resilience and never let their heads drop in moments of adversity, and supported and encouraged each other throughout. This is a special group, who have won silverware for the school at a national level and made memories that will stay with them forever.

For a such a small school like ours to achieve this is remarkable, and to witness it, alongside our wonderfully supportive parents and Miss Silver, was very special indeed. We have truly punched above our weight and Richmond House history has been made!”

Route to Plate Success

Group

RHS 6 – 4 Bishopsgate School

RHS 5 – 2 Bedford Girls’ School

RHS 6 – 10 Hoe Bridge School

RHS 5 – 12 Kensington Prep School

RHS 7 – 6 Redmaids’ High School

Finished 3rd in Group. Progressed through to the Plate Competition.

Plate Quarter Final

RHS 8 – 5 Godstowe

Plate Semi Final

RHS 8-5 Solihull School

Plate Final

RHS 6 – 5 Heath Mount School

Richmond House School IAPS National Finals Plate Competition Winners