Dewsbury school crowned national rugby league champions
A girls’ rugby league team at a Dewsbury high school has been crowned national champions after an “outstanding” final performance.
St John Fisher Catholic Voluntary Academy’s Year 11 girls’ side beat St Peter’s Catholic High School of Wigan 18-4 at the showpiece event in Goole.
In a dominant performance from start to finish, the team demonstrated exceptional effort, attitude, and determination to secure the well-deserved national title.
Player of the match Emmie O scored a hat-trick, while Lacey T was also on the trysheet.
Head of Year 11, Ms Thompstone, said: “The team produced an outstanding performance and they should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved.
“A huge thank you to the team, parents, friends, and family who travelled to support them, and to Mr Edwards and Mr Egan for their coaching and commitment. Several students stepped in at short notice and performed brilliantly when called upon.
“It is a fantastic achievement reflecting hard work, resilience, and outstanding team spirit from the whole squad.”
Captain Miley C added: “I am very proud of the team. We all stuck together throughout the game, dug deep, and held our heads high. Everyone communicated well and supported one another, which helped us finish with a win.
“Thank you to Mr Egan, Mr Edwards, Miss Brown, and Ms Thompstone for believing in us and encouraging the team to do our best.”
Proud mum Alison Atkinson, whose daughter Winnie featured in the final, said: “Despite their GCSEs starting in three weeks, they have excelled in the national rugby league schools championships.
“It was a brilliant game. They did really well. Quite a crowd went to watch them win. Each and every one of them played their very best.”