Howard Wiseman reports:
03/10/23: Sunday's U16 EFA Individual Tournament at Highgate was simply a magical day of Fives!
What other school sport could bring together so many pupils from different schools to enjoy a sport together… instead of against each other? It was just wonderful to see the assembled forty girls and boys from seven different schools, all mix in to form six random rounds with different partners and opposition. Laughter, smiles, support, adulation, and encouragement could be heard and seen on all courts, which remained packed throughout the five-hour session. Not a single confrontation, dispute or bad word all afternoon! Amazing. Mill Hill, St.Olave’s, QE Barnet, Eton College, R/repton, Burford and Highgate, all took part. The QEB Fives team was especially impressive: twelve really excellent, hugely committed players who were always exciting to watch. Only four of the forty participants won all of their matches, lining up a final between Mill Hill & St.Olave’s Vs Highgate & Eton ( who won!)…. This was an especially impressive achievement by Mill Hill, as they only had one player in the draw… so no safety in numbers! These schools’ top-scoring players had all performed brilliantly to have reached this stage with full points scored.
The R/repton mixed duo were excellent, with both players winning the majority of their matches. Burford were well represented by their single entry: it was really wonderful to welcome them to this event.
Many thanks to Jack Flowers and Highgate School for hosting this EFA Junior event and fixing superb weather for the afternoon. Many thanks also to the staff and parents who gave up their day to support the students, Gareth Hoskins from the EFA set the event up beautifully, and as the organiser on the day I could not thank the students enough for the most enjoyable day that they provided me with… they were just a joy to watch. Congratulations to all of the students who made new friends and who played with nothing but just great spirit, generosity and enthusiasm; all afternoon.