Wed, 9th Dec.
The U13's hosted the Christchurch Schools Tournament, with Highcliffe, Twynham and Arnewood in attendance. Games were to be 2 x 7 min halves but this was shortened to just 7 min games with the lack of time.
Although this was their first game together, the team had already bonded well through training and pathway sessions. Led by Nic Wilke the team first faced Highcliffe and good game saw both teams moving the ball well. Tobias Strongman led the attack but it was Will Kernan who added the first points for BCS. The game was end to end, with some good defence, although a little scrappy, players showed skill and commitment. It ended 6-6.
BCS then faced a taller team, in Twynham, and went behind. But some good play by all, meant a come back. Brendan Wilson was running well with the ball, and it paid off as BCS went level. There was a slim chance of grabbing the win at the death, by Tobias' shot rattled out. It ended 4-4.
BCS then faced Arnewood. Every player made a contribution but as fatigue started to show and defence lacked we gave them the opportunity to get easy baskets and again we had to fight back to get the draw. Max and Brendan again were running, with some great long passes by Will, and some hassling defence from David we managed to bring it back to 4-4.
With 3 draws in 3 games, this was great show of heart, fighting back twice, to hold on. However Highcliffe converted their other 2 games into close wins, and hence took the title.
A great tournament for the young players. In a game generally reserved for giants, even the small Year 7's, who hopefully have some growing to do, showed some real skill and determination.
[Team: Nic Wilke, Max Metcalffe, Tobias Strongman, Will Kernan, Brendan Wilson, David Lawler, Olly Hassan]