Sports round-up 14.02.2025

Fencing

Huge congratulations to Miles on reaching the National Fencing Finals to be held in Sheffield in May. We wish him every success as he continues to represent Claremont with such distinction.

Football

1st XI Girls Football ISFA Shield ¼ Final

On a cold, wet, and windy afternoon in Berkhamsted, the girls delivered an outstanding performance despite the extremely challenging conditions. They started the match with great energy and determination, executing an organised defensive strategy and using long balls to catch their opponents off guard. Early in the game, there were flashes of individual brilliance, with Genevieve L holding up the ball brilliantly, allowing Lily M to score a superb goal. At the back, Emily I and Eilidh F were combative throughout, making vital blocks to prevent any threat from the opposition.

As the weather worsened in the second half, the team continued to battle, trying to hold onto their lead until midway through when they unfortunately conceded twice, putting them behind. Despite this setback, they pushed relentlessly for an equaliser but just couldn’t find the finishing goal in the final moments. The effort from the entire team was outstanding, and they can be proud of their performance. Well done to the whole team for taking part!

2nd XI

A deserved three nil victory against Reddam House after a strong performance from the 2nd team. Claremont dominated possession, winning second balls consistently to create opportunities in the final third.

3rd XI

The 3rd X1 played away at Salesian College in a highly competitive match. The eventual outcome saw CFC losing 6-3 with 2 goals from Jude S and another goal from Adam K. MVP was Jude giving the opposition lots to think about.

The 3rd X1 played away at LVS in a game where the Claremont team found it difficult to defend against a strong attack from the opposition. In the second half with a few changes in shape they competed better ending the game at a 4-1 loss. Jude S was the scorer with Nat W voted MVP.

U15A

The u15As secured their first win of the football season with a great team performance away at Claires Court! With close chances from both sides throughout the game and some fantastic defending including goal-saving slide tackles and near misses from only a few yards out it looked destined to be a 0-0 draw. That is until Claremont broke down the left side and slid the ball across the edge of the box to Raahil L (who was playing through an upset stomach but wanted to stay on to help the team) who side-footed a shot low into the bottom left corner with 5 minutes to play!

All the players were excellent, but Sam C got a deserved Player of the Match for his tireless running and pressing from the front, as well as his great work on the ball to link with teammates. A great way for the players to wrap up the half term!

13A

A game where the scoreline did not do justice to the competition. A couple of soft goals and an own goal gave impetus to the opposition but for 20 mins, this team had complete control. Despite a number of excellent players in the opposition, Claremont passed the ball and ran them off the park. It was a period of brilliant control and the best the team has played this season but they just couldn’t find a way to score.

The second half was a different story. Another soft goal from a corner began the slide and then it became a procession. Finally at 7-0 down, the boys sparked into like and scrambled two consolation goals. 9-2 is no reflection on the effort and competitive manner with which they played, George B was utterly outstanding in all aspects of the game, and his determination to compete was exceptional.

U12B

An excellent all-round team performance. Alex A enjoyed being on the wing, taking his defender on and getting past him time and time again. William L was a colossus in defence, not only breaking up attacks but driving the ball forwards. Leo M and James P provided a bit of steel. Claires Court went 2 goals up, before Charlie B was introduced. He set up the first goal for Alex, scored our next goal, contributed to Ben’s goal and finally scored the last goal. A well deserved man of the match performance.

12C

The U12C had their best game so far this season dominating both halves and winning 3-1 with goals from David A and William P. The man of the match was goalkeeper Aleks P with another outstanding performance.

Gymnastics

The U11 and U13 enjoyed a fantastic weekend at the ISGA National 4 Piece. Both teams placed 2nd overall as a team. This is a fantastic result at a national level. Congratulations to Danika H who placed 1st individually making her the U11 4-piece National Champion. A huge well done to Molly S who placed 3rd individually in the U13 category.

Lacrosse

U18C

On a damp over cast day, the mighty 3rd team faced the talented Wycombe Abbey. The squad have word hard in the week to improve their cradling and this was evident as they kept themselves in the game. 0-4 at half time and this was in part to great keeping by Faris strong defence from Lucy E. The second half saw Claremont get on the scoreboard with a great solo score from Lily. Sophie D returned to the squad and worked relentlessly in midfield. The visitors however slowly pulled away to end the game 1-10. With more work this week they are on the upward trend.

U15A

This was an incredibly intense match against Wycombe Abbey, with a final score of 9-8 reflecting just how competitive it was. Every moment felt crucial, and the level of game management played a significant role in the outcome.

Throughout the match, strategic decisions, well-timed adjustments, and composure under pressure were essential. Controlling the tempo, making effective substitutions, and executing defensive plays at critical moments all contributed to the overall performance. The ability to remain focused and make the right decisions in high-pressure situations ultimately made the difference. Matches like this truly highlight the importance of tactical awareness and disciplined execution. Being part of such a closely contested game was both challenging and rewarding.

U13C

The U13C lacrosse team played with great determination this weekend against Wycombe Abbey, despite the tough scoreline. The girls showcased some excellent passing and made strong runs toward the goal. However, their opponents’ defence proved to be very strong, making it difficult to break through. Nevertheless, the girls played with heart and should be proud of their effort. Well done, team! Keep up the great work! Player of the Match: Amelie and Val

U12A

It was a convincing win against Wycombe Abbey, a very strong team, showcasing both skill and strategy. The team executed the game plan brilliantly, demonstrating confidence and composure throughout. It was great to see the pupils implementing the advice given, translating training into real match situations. Their discipline, teamwork, and adaptability played a crucial role in securing the victory. This performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team, and it’s exciting to see their continued growth and improvement.

U12B

Amazing attacking play from Naomi and Cecily, created space for Claremont to drive the ball to goal. Claremont were first to drive to any ground balls, making it hard for Wycombe to gain possession. The whole team worked tirelessly to take the victory against Wycombe Abbey and listened to half time advice that extended their lead in the second half, well done girls.

U12C

This weekend, the U12C lacrosse team faced a challenging match against Wycombe Abbey. Despite the loss, the girls demonstrated impressive skill and determination on the field. They executed several beautiful drives toward the goal, with moments of excellent teamwork and individual brilliance. Though the final score doesn’t reflect the effort and talent shown, the girls can be proud of their performance. Keep it up, ladies—great effort all around! Player of the Match: Katy and Isabel R

U14 Surrey Tournament

Yesterday, we hosted the rescheduled U14 Surrey County Lacrosse Tournament, and what a day it was! Our A team finished second in their pool before facing a tough semi-final against St. Cat’s. After a hard-fought game and some unfortunate events, we narrowly lost 2-0. Meanwhile, the B team came fourth in their pool and went on to face Caterham A in a thrilling semi-final. It was a nail-biting match, and despite a valiant effort, the B’s were just edged out 2-1 in a game they truly deserved to win.

A fantastic day of lacrosse, setting the perfect stage for Nationals and the Coloma Cup after half-term. Huge congratulations to both teams for their amazing effort!

Netball

U13

The u13s had a brilliant day last Thursday at the Surrey netball tournament. We saw some great shooting from Alice, Georgia and Abi. Congratulations to Jess for her excellent defending.

Swimming

IAPS Qualifier – The gala started with the relays, the U11 boys and girls teams show dedication and gave their best effort, against tough opposition. The individual events were much closer, with several of the junior swimmers finishing in the top 3 of their events. Pippa’s 50m freestyle was a very tight event, with all the swimmers even at the turn, one pulled away but Pippa kept close and as the race progressed, she closed the gap, securing an excellent 2nd place and a new PB. Emilie was also in a tough heat, she swam consistently and finished in an excellent 3rd place. Well done to all the competitors, they all tried their hardest and represented the school outstandingly.

Tennis

The Branston Shield is a girls’ competition, while the Rootham Shield is for boys, both part of an under-18 knockout tournament. We have entered two boys’ teams and two girls’ teams, and it’s fantastic to be part of this competition, as it offers a different format compared to what we’re used to playing. In this format, Numbers 1 and 2 play both singles and doubles, with singles matches being played in WTN order. Numbers 3 and 4 will only play doubles. Claremont is fortunate to be involved in this competition, as the level of tennis here is exceptionally high.

Our Junior Boys B team faced off against Grey Court A team yesterday. The boys put up an outstanding performance, despite the tough competition. They stood their ground, fought hard, and played long rallies, working tirelessly to gain points from Grey Court. Unfortunately, the final

The score was 5-0, but most games went to sudden death, which is a true testament to their effort. Well done to Ben C, Charlie S, Harry S, and Zac H!

Senior Girls A Team

The Senior Girls A team also took on Grey Court yesterday, delivering an excellent performance. It was an exciting match with some lovely tennis played by our girls. They worked hard, played beautiful rallies, and gave it their all. They lost 3-2, but their effort was truly impressive. Well done to Anais P, Sofia C, Ava P, and Linea P!

“Great job!” to all our teams – keep up the hard work! Good Luck to our Boys A Team that will be taken on Ewell Castle and our Girls B team will take on Epsom next term.

XC Cross Country

On Friday, Priorsfield hosted a girls’ relay cross-country event, where our team of four students took on the challenge of running 1.3 km each. The conditions were tough, with cold weather, rain, and even hail during their run, but the girls maintained fantastic spirits throughout. They cheered each other on and supported their teammates every step of the way. Each runner performed exceptionally well, and were thrilled to have completed their runs, feeling great afterward. Despite initially expecting the race to feel longer, they were pleasantly surprised by how quickly it passed.

Results:

U15: 5th Place U14: 4th Place U13: 5th Place U12: 4th Place

A huge well done to all the girls! We’re incredibly proud of your efforts and excellent performance in such challenging conditions. Well run!