A big hand for High 5 netball in Blackpool

Despite an unexpected heavy downpour, the young players enjoyed a fast-paced competition.

Young leaders from Blackpool Sixth prepared the players in a skills and drills session that featured various games to ensure they were physically and mentally ready for taking to the courts.

Holy Family, Unity, Bispham Endowed, Norbreck, Devonshire, St Nicholas, Christ The King, St Teresa’s and Waterloo took part in the first of five High 5 Netball events designed to provide an opportunity for fun as well as competition and development.

Volunteers from local clubs supported the event as officials, coaches and mentors.

Steph Wignall, Lancashire Development Officer for England Netball, gathered the players at the end of the event to praise them on their improved skills and encouraged schools to sign up to the next event later this year.

Dave Rohman, Blackpool School Games Organiser, said: “The new courts are amazing and we are so lucky to have been the ones to christen them with so many children.

“Our event coincided with World Smile Day and I am very proud to say that Blackpool added to the grand total of smiles across the world in a sporting spectacular.

“I would like to thank Sport Blackpool and England Netball for their continued support.

“We have created the development festivals this year to provide opportunities for schools and children to learn more about High 5 Netball and to get to grips with the game in a fun-based and non-competitive environment.”