On a cold but sunny Sunday morning, the Swifts (Under-10s) and Swallows (Under-11s) from Sidmouth Netball Club flew up the M3 for what was – for some – their first experience of tournament netball.

First on court were the Swallows, who got off to a flyer with a win against Dart and a draw against CCNC. Next up were the hosts Tiverton, who proved too strong in both defence and attack.

Keeping their heads held high, the girls pushed on to win all three of their next games, finishing the day in 5th spot just the one point behind the 3rd placed team.

Next up it was time for the Swifts to take to court in their first ever tournament. The day started in similar fashion to the Swallows, with a win and a draw in their opening two games.

However, a superb 5-0 win over Dart Stars and a 4-0 win over Dart Moons certainly boosted belief, which was matched on court by a close 5-3 win against Tiverton.

All this meant that a final win against TTNC would mean overall victory. Excitement was channelled into great cross court defence and super shooting, resulting in a 3-0 win and tournament victory. All-in-all, a very enjoyable morning of netball capped off by a well-deserved Under-10 umpires’ player award for Bella G.

For those wishing to join in the excitement, after Easter Sidmouth Netball Club are offering a six-week taster session for girls in years 4-6 to come along with their friends and see what we are all about. This will run on a Tuesday from 5.30-6.30pm at St John’s School from March 18. Further details can be found on the club website www.sidmouthnetball.co.uk

Any youngsters (or seniors) who have not tried netball before, this is a sport that brings so many fantastic benefits.

First of all. Netball is a full physical workout. It is brilliant for cardio fitness and, due to the changes of direction and footwork required, a sport that helps with movement, coordination and agility.

Along with improvements to physical wellbeing, netball is like all team sports in the sense of camaraderie, friendship and social development it provides. It is, without question, a wonderful sport and Sidmouth Netball Club is a special place to get started.