Last night the U16 girls Basketball team, made up of 13 of our Year 11 girls, were crowned Lancashire Schools Champions after an emphatic performance. After remaining unbeaten in each of the group games, they went on to defeat Worden 47-5 in the semi-final, setting up a final against Albany Academy.
From the off, the girls showed a high level of ability combined with great drive and desire, and after scoring within the first few seconds of the game, never let the lead slip. They dominated both offense and defense for the majority of the game, slowly increasing their lead to finish up 43-20 winners. All 13 of the squad members played their part in a heavily rotated team effort. 10 of the girls scored points on the night, showing the high standards throughout the squad. The 3 that didn't score contributed with key blocks and assists to aid in the victory. Holly Turner (12 points) and Olivia Hunt (10 points) where the two top scorers for us in what turned out to be a comfortable win in the end.
Special mention goes to Lily Hunter who was awarded the Most Valuable Player award from the match officials on the night. Her unbelievable work rate, tenacity to win the ball back, willingness to create chances for others and three baskets on the night meant this was well-deserved. This award however, could have easily been given to a number of our girls who really rose to the occasion and played some incredibly entertaining basketball together.
Well done girls - you have earned this victory and have been a credit to the Academy for the duration of the competition!
Squad:
Sophie Andre
Libby Forrest Yates
Olivia Hunt
Lily Hunter
Ellie Johnson
Hannah Layfield (c)
Claudia Lewis
Emily Mercer
Marcy Ollson
Lucy Page
Izzi Ramsden
Holly Turner
Charlotte Walker
