The girls began their training early in September, happy to have a Sports Hall to play in during their final year at Grosvenor. The netball season is such a short one that it can either bring with it success in a short space of time or huge disappointment.

It is great to report that for 5 years the team have themselves enjoyed great success through their netball and have won many trophies for Grosvenor. This success has, however, diminished in the last two seasons. It becomes more difficult for a hockey school to compete in the ‘A’ league against what are predominantly club players in a school team. Our girls have achieved so much when this is taken into consideration. In our league this year we found ourselves in a section with three other teams, Dominican College, Rathmore Grammar and St. Genevieve’s High school. It was therefore most unfortunate that St. Genevieve’s could not fulfil their fixture and had to retire from this section. This left us with only two league fixtures, much to my frustration, and a disappointing way for the team to end their last season.

As always, however, the girls maintained their positive attitude and determination and focused on their two other league games. The first battle was against a very talented Rathmore side who proved just too strong to contend with in the first league game. Perhaps the result might have been different if we could have controlled all aspects of the game on the day, but as all sports people know, this is just not possible. Despite the heavy defeat the girls battled to the end, showing great teamwork throughout, a quality they have developed throughout their years at Grosvenor.

The last league game was against Dominican College and the girls put in a fine display to gain their last victory at Grosvenor. Defensive work was strong, marking was good and overall attacking play and finishing was simply class.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the girls for all their commitment and dedication throughout their years at Grosvenor, not only to their netball but to sport in general. They have been a fantastic group of girls to work with, and there have been many fun times during training, travelling to matches and during team meetings. The only thing I won’t miss is dining at McDonald’s!

I want to thank FRANCESCA FITZSIMMONS for her role as captain - she has proven herself to be an effective leader throughout the years. I wish all the girls all the best in their final exams and I hope they all achieve the grades they deserve and gain entry into the university of their choice. Good luck, you will be missed!

        MISS C WATSON (COACH)