International ladies Tournament April 2008

Monday, 05 May 2008

Javea Netball Club were once again busy hosting ladies touring teams from Crystal Palace, London from 16th to 20th April. The teams were accompanied by their full time coach Sharon who was using the week as a trails for next seasons teams. The club itself runs at least 5 teams and were able to bring 3 to Javea.

On the Thursday night Javea hosted a training tournament at l'Ancora tennis club. It was a lovely evening and Javea players enjoyed the chance to play and learn alongside such capable teams. Afterwards Debbie kindly showed the team some of the sights of Javea!

On Friday whilst the touring teams were sunning themselves Javea players were busy moving posts and marking out 2 courts on the playground of the Arenal School. With the scare of rain the players spent the night with crossed fingers that it would be dry overnight and not lift the lines so painstakingly stuck down over the 2 hours!

Saturday arrived with sunshine and the tournament got underway at 12noon. Javea were joined by teams from Torrevieja and Alfaz de Pi to make up the league of 8 teams. As the afternoon progressed the wind got stronger and net-balls were seen to hover over the net and fall away, or turn direction as a player was about to catch it. One of the Crystal palace shooters was actually blown over with a strong gust much to the amusement of the rest of the players. but despite the wind it was competitive, with the local teams showing great improvement in their play. Javea managed to field 2 teams thanks to Anita playing a shoot, and newcomer to the game George playing half games.

Crystal Palace A team won the tournament but due to the great defence by Karen and Christian, and accurate shooting from Becky and Wendy Javea came second, beating 2 UK teams. Well done. Trophies were presented by Anita, as Sports councillor Jose Erades had to leave early to attend a wedding. Once again thanks to everyone who took part.

The evening was was again followed by buffet and karaoke at Charlie's Bar on the Arenal. The girls found their voices and dancing shoes and once again were out till the small hours of the morning!!

The next tournament is on 24th and 25th of May in the Sports hall Javea so make a note in your diary!!!