On Wednesday 9th November, Team BTC Netball (Elite) travelled to the University of St Mark and St John’s, Plymouth, to play in the AoC Sport Regional Championships. Having won their first two league matches, Team BTC were confident that they could do well at this competition but were also eager to take on teams from higher divisions, to push and develop their play.

The competition started with the group rounds. Team BTC’s first group match was against a strong Exeter College side, meaning Team BTC had to pull out a strong performance to stay in contention. Great determination and effort saw the team play to a great standard, with Rheanne Lee (GK) and Emily Rossiter (GD) making countless turnovers. Unfortunately, the Exeter defence were too strong on the day, and took the victory. Team BTC were determined to win their next two games to see them through to the semi-finals.

The second group game was against SGS College. Having played them in the league, Team BTC knew they were the favourites to take the victory, but SGS were determined and went out hard to put pressure on Team BTC from the beginning. Great attacking movement from Tiana Date-Jeremy (C) and Leah Davies (WA) saw them dominate the attacking end, resulting in some great feeds into the attacking circle. Siobhan Lynam (GA) and Aerin Phillips (GS) worked exceptionally well together, ensuring they converted all shooting opportunities. Team BTC went on to win the game, 17 – 6.

The third group game was against St Brendan’s Sixth Form. Team TBC got off to a slow start, delaying opportunities for them to take an early lead. St Brendan’s tried to put on defensive pressure throughout the court, but Team BTC were just too strong, winning the game, 16 – 5.

These great results saw Team BTC finish second in their group, meaning that they qualified for the semi-finals. They faced Truro and Penwith College, winners of the other group, so knew they would have to pull their best performance in order to reach the final. Team BTC tried their best to apply pressure to a confident Truro side, with affective marking from Maria Anghel (GK), Rheanne Lee and Jessie Woodbury (WD) making important turnovers. However, Truro were just too strong and went on the final to face Exeter College.

Rheanne Lee, Captain and A level student said:

“Everyone worked so hard today, very proud captain! Loads of commitment, respect & dedication from all.”

Players’ player of the tournament: Emily Rossiter
Coach’s player of the tournament: Rheanne Lee