Benenden teams achieved the best ever results seen from any Benenden Squash teams at the National Schools’ Squash Championships last week, providing the perfect finale for Mr. Marshall in his last year of full-time coaching.
With the best result from any Benenden team ever, the U14A team (Eloise W, Maria G, Sonya F, Wendy L, Harriet W, Emily J) finished second in the country, winning silver in the Championship Final. Throughout all rounds, they only lost one match. Harriet’s serves, Wendy’s powerful hitting, and Eloise’s control and skill provided highlights throughout the campaign.
Meanwhile the U16 team (Skye F, Pippa S, Sophia S, Chloe H, Alicia F, Frankie Y) secured an excellent result in winning first place in the Plate Finals. The first match proved to be the most crucial, with a very close 3-2 win against South Hunsley, who were very strong. Frankie won the last match in a close battle 2-1, setting the team up for comfortable wins against Bradfield College and Wycombe High School as they went on to win the title.
The U18B team, pictured, (Georgina M, Maria G, Hannah S, Flora B, Eden D-E and Amy K) finished third in a highly competitive Plate Finals group, with Benenden, Bradfield, and Barnard Castle all equal on 2 wins and 1 loss. It was agonisingly close, with many games going to tie breaks. The last match against Bradfield saw a fantastic display from Hanna to win a tough match 2-1. Georgina also produced her best performance to beat their number 1 player.
Huge congratulations to all the players, Mr. Marshall and Mrs. Lancashire.