A HIGH school in Chester has been awarded a £3,000 grant from the Ursula Keyes Trust to buy essential equipment to support its Netball Team compete at National level.

The Upton-by-Chester U16 Netball Team is an exceptionally talented group of young athletes, who achieved remarkable success in the North West Regional finals, securing 2nd place. Last season, they won the Sisters n Sport National Cup.

Their outstanding performance earned them a spot in the prestigious England Netball National School Finals.

As headteacher Mr Lee Cummins said; “An incredible opportunity for these dedicated players to showcase their skills on a national stage. However, participating in such competitions involves significant expenses.”

When the Ursula Keyes Trust heard about the challenges for the players to get to the England Netball National School Finals the Trustees were keen to support the aspirations of these talented athletes.

They awarded them a grant of £3,000 towards travel, tournament fees, kit and medical support.

After some superb matches and regional rounds in January and February, the finals were held on 16th March at Oundle School in Northamptonshire and Upton’s players, coaches and supporters left at 5am to make the journey there. Upton came 8th out of 6,882 school teams in the country, an incredible achievement.

John Brimelow, on behalf of the Trustees of the Ursula Keyes Trust said; “By supporting youth sports we are investing in the future, fostering teamwork, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle. Our Trust is honoured and proud to be able to help.”

Team Coach Nicola Szehofner, a former Welsh International (2006 Commonwealth Games) and Super League player herself, said: “We were able to represent our school, community and region with pride at the National Finals. On behalf of the team, I thank the trustees of the Ursula Keyes Trust for their most generous grant to help cover the associated costs but also contribute to the growth and development of not only these young athletes but go towards creating a legacy for netball success.”

During a visit to the school, Ursula Keys Trustees John Brimelow and Sian Preston, met the players to congratulate them and wish them well in future tournaments. A former player herself, Sian said; “We were delighted to be presented with a thank you card, and photo from the tournament from all the players expressing how much the donation made a difference. We wish the Team the very best for all future matches and look forward to following their progress.”

Other sponsors of the team are Cheshire Restoration, Cheshire Fashion Week and The Little Carpet Shop.