Year 4 Basketball Festival

Ten children from Year took part in the inaugural Battle of the Thrones festival from Kingston Lions.

On Friday 14th June 2019, ten pupils from Year 4 (see photo) took part in the inaugural ‘Battle of the Thrones’ basketball festival at Richard Challoner. The event, which was being hosted by Kingston Lions, provides the first opportunity for primary school children in to play competitively following the normal rules of basketball such as having five members of a team on court and playing on a full-length court. Following in-school training, the children were ready to showcase their enthusiasm and skills.

The eight competing teams were placed into two groups. O.L.I. faced St Josephs, Christ Church Surbiton and Burlington. The first match against Burlington was a tight contest with both teams cancelling each other baskets out. At the half-way stage, the match was level at 6-6. Following some excellent movement and shooting accuracy, O.L.I took the lead; however, this didn’t last for long with the scores levelled once again. At 12-12, the match went to a free-throw shootout which O.L.I won courtesy of a brilliant contribution from one of our star performers. 

Next up was an experienced Christ Church team. The team played brilliantly in this encounter, particularly working well in defence as they made it difficult for their opponents to make easy baskets. Once again, the match was very closely contested. Despite a late rally in the final quarter, O.L.I. lost out to the eventual competition winners by only one basketball. After a break in play, O.L.I. were ready to play their final match against St Josephs. In this match, the team demonstrated an improved approach to attacking scoring several lay-ups at the end of fast break moves. In addition, we scored a number of long-range shots which was great to see. O.L.I. deservedly won the final match by a difference of 6 points. With two excellent wins from three matches the team should be very proud of their efforts. 

I would like to congratulate the children on an excellent team performance. It was great to see the development of the children’s skills during the course of the event. Also, I was really impressed with the teamwork that all squad members displayed; they behaved superbly throughout the morning.  I would like to thank the parents and carers who provided transport to the venue and those who supported during the morning; this was very much appreciated. Finally, please view the school website to view a range of team photos taken from this event.