Emily Scoones reports:
30/03/20: Back to Fives is an initiative launched by The FiveStar Project to try to reinvigorate lapsed Eton Fives players back into the sport.
It aims to utilise the current player network and the alumni contact networks of schools, clubs and universities to encourage those who once played to put their gloves back on for a Back to Fives session and continue playing in the future.
On the 26th of January 2019, the EFA held its “Back to Fives” pilot session at Highgate. The event attracted 17 returners and three new players to the courts. The attendees were aged from 10 to 70, some of whom donned their gloves and others who came just to support the game. Alongside the eight current team members, a highly successful two hours of Fives ensued, with the rust quickly disappearing from the hands of those playing. What was also evident was the enjoyment of fives relighting in those returning, who could barely be tempted away from the courts, even by pizza.
Once the returners were pried away from the courts they socialised with pizza and drinks. They reminisced about school days, discussed others who they could get back into playing and general chit chat about life and fives. The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all that attended and we are hoping to see them back on court soon.
“It was great to play again and meet people who felt the same”
“The day itself was absolutely brilliant, playing against other players, seeing what standard we were at, learning some tactics – absolutely fantastic day”
In the past couple of months, we have seen our Back-to-Fivesers keen to come back to league fives, Thursday night practices and even three entries into the Kinnaird Festival.
“It’s been a great day. It is great to see other people and see how other people play.”
“It is just great to play against other players and really looking forward to seeing the top guys and girls this afternoon and the rest of the day. We have our eyes on the plate…a bit of crockery“
If you're interested in running a similar event for you club, you can contact Emily here.