Our PE Department took two netball teams and two football teams on tour to Holland during the second week of the Easter holidays. The teams comprised of both Year 9 and 10 students.
After landing in Amsterdam, a two-hour bus trip took them to Toverland Theme Park, home to TROY – the highest and fastest wooden rollercoaster in Europe. Students enjoyed a variety of rides as well as sampling some of the country’s best treats.
The group then made their way to Centre Parcs, which would be home for the next three days. With full access to the facilities, they enjoyed their leisure time driving go-karts, petting animals, and riding the fantastic water slides.
It wasn’t all ‘play’ though! After breakfast each morning, the teams received professional training in their respected sport, with competitive games in the afternoon. During the first day of competition, both netball teams showed a great level of fitness, communication skills and resilience, narrowly missing out on qualifying for the top league on the final day of competition.
Whilst the netballers battled in out in the sports hall, both football teams had an equal level of challenge on the pitch.
The girls football team, coached by Mrs Beaumont, did extremely well during their first day of competition remaining unbeaten in their pool. The boys team also excelled, beating a local Dutch team 5-1.
The final day of competition saw a derby netball game where both WHS teams were drawn against one another. The game was heated and competitive yet played in the very best spirit. Both netball teams battled hard but narrowly missed out on silverware.
The girls football team looked to take their unbeaten streak to the final day of competition. All players showed true grit and determination and remained unbeaten until their final game. A true valiant effort!
At 6pm on the last day, the Year 10 boys travelled to another neighbouring town to play a Dutch academy side. The game was hard-fought with some tough tackles from both teams. Unfortunately, the victory was stolen by a last-minute winner!
Trip leader, Mr Tidmarsh said, “It was a great trip and a brilliant opportunity for students to taste international competition. All the pupils represented the school in a fantastic light with many members of the public, in and around the venues, commenting on how polite and well-behaved the students were. Holland, WHS will be back!”
