The Haberdashers’ Monmouth U16 Netball Team etched their names into the history books becoming Ann Smart Netball National Champions for the first time at this age group. Their thrilling journey to the title showcased unwavering determination, skill and teamwork, culminating in a dramatic extra-time victory in the final.

The format of 5-minute quarters rewarded quick incisive play and a slow start against group favourites Ysgol Brynrefail resulted in a 9-10 loss in the first match. A better performance against Bishopston saw the girls come away with a 15-10 and in their final group game a similar shoreline of 14-9 against Ysgol Bro Myrddin. Monmouth topped the group on goal average and played Welshpool in the quarters, it was at this point the team cut loose and played to their potential winning 27-3.

The semis threw up a surprise playing Bishopston again, although they were a much-improved team from earlier, Monmouth proved too strong again and won 15-10. The final was against the much-fancied Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, a two-goal deficit was clawed back after a nervous start and their GA who was simply outstanding was out-muscled by a pink defensive midcourt wall. The final whistle blew at 12-12 which sent the game into extra time. The score went with centre passes until the second period of extra time when Monmouth turned the ball and scored two goals in quick succession, despite a nervous final minute of frantic possession the girls held strong and won the game 14-12.

Miss Morris, the team’s coach, expressed immense pride in the team

The team was: Jessica Stentiford (Captain) GA, Mali Price - C, Imogen Smart - WA, Verity Ainsworth - GK, Annabelle James - GD, Eleanor Walsh - WD, Victoria Rossiter - WD, Ameilia Rossiter - WA, Lauren Harper - WD, Helena Pugh - GS