Hurricane hangover, squally rain, clocks teetering on the shadowy precipice of change as greens fade to orange and brown; Autumn has finally arrived as we breeze into the half time interval. Despite the challenge rock hard pitches and a lack of pluvial participation have presented, Claremont pupils have taken part in manifold fixtures, tournaments and training sessions this side of the break, the final week a fixture frenzy, the campus providing opportunity for ever inventive use of space. Senior Lacrosse Counties saw all four Senior teams in action at Caterham, the 3s unbeaten through to the semi-final, which they lost by a single point and the 2s losing a tense final to St Catherine’s.

With a fortnight to breathe, the expectation is that we return to a new normal post Half Term, as leaves tumble in tandem with the temperature, Halloween ghosts in, bonfires are burnt and fireworks illuminate the start of the second half.

 

Football

Girls 1st XI v Lancing

The U18 Girls produced an excellent performance to secure a well-deserved 2-1 victory over Lancing College in Round 1 of the ISFA Cup. Despite having only 11 players available and facing the challenge of a large pitch, the girls showed great teamwork throughout the match.

From the beginning, Claremont controlled possession and created multiple chances when playing forward quickly. The scoreline could easily have been more emphatic, but the girls found the opposition goalkeeper in inspired form and often struggled to find a way past her despite dominating the game.

To their credit, the team stuck to their strengths, moving the ball effectively and consistently looking to play in behind the defence. Their patience and quality in possession eventually paid off, allowing them to create the opportunities needed to secure the win very late on. There were outstanding performances all over the pitch, with Nella, Jess, Minnie and Rose all making significant contributions. Their work rate, quality on the ball and positional discipline were key to the team’s success. Well done to all the girls involved and good luck in the next round!

Girls U15A v Sir William Perkins

The U15A team secured a fantastic 3-0 victory in the first round of the ISFA Smiths Construction Cup, producing an excellent team performance and a well-deserved win.

Having not played together for some time, the girls grew into the game and got better and better as it progressed. As confidence increased, so did the quality of the football, with the team moving the ball well and creating numerous attacking opportunities. The defence was particularly impressive throughout, showing great determination and composure to win their 1v1 battles. Behind them, Pippa played a crucial role, making some fantastic saves at key moments and keeping the team well organised from the back. Her communication and leadership helped the team remain composed and maintain control when under pressure.

In midfield, the girls worked tirelessly to build play, linking defence and attack effectively and ensuring the team remained on the front foot for much of the match. The breakthrough came through Poppy, who opened the scoring with a well-taken goal. The girls continued to press forward, and Zahra was rewarded for her hard work with two excellent goals to secure the victory. Overall, it was a really positive performance with every player making an important contribution. The team should be proud of how they developed throughout the game and can now look forward with excitement to the second round of the ISFA Smiths Construction Cup.

Girls U13A v Howard of Effingham

The U13A team were unlucky to come away with a 1-0 defeat in what was a very evenly matched and enjoyable game. The opposition scored within the first five minutes, catching us before we had fully settled into the match. However, the girls responded brilliantly and went on to play some excellent football for the remainder of the game. They worked hard for one another, moved the ball well, and created several good opportunities, only just missing the target on a number of occasions.

The second half saw the girls continue to push for an equaliser, while Hana produced a series of fantastic saves to keep us firmly in the contest. Her excellent shot-stopping and confidence in goal earned her a well-deserved Player of the Match award. Despite the result, there were plenty of positives to take away. It was a competitive game, a good run around for everyone involved, and the girls can be proud of the quality of football and determination they showed throughout.

Girls U13A v King Edwards, Witley

The U13A girls made a fantastic start to their season with an emphatic 7-0 victory in the ISFA U13 Girls Cup, booking their place in the next round in style. Despite it being their first match of the season, the girls looked sharp from the first whistle and started the game with great energy and determination. They played some exceptional football throughout, moving the ball confidently, creating numerous chances, and showing excellent teamwork across the pitch.

The girls were dominant in all areas of the field, consistently winning their battles and working hard for one another. Their attacking play was exciting to watch, while their determination to win the ball back meant they remained in control throughout the match. Just as importantly, they maintained their focus and intensity until the final whistle, finishing the game as strongly as they had started it. Overall, it was a superb team performance and a brilliant way to begin the season. The girls should be extremely proud of their efforts and can look forward to the next round of the competition with plenty of confidence and excitement.

 

Lacrosse

U18A Senior Counties

Our first tournament of the season is complete, and whilst it was great to have our full squad back together (after gaps due to injuries, training camps and uni visits) it was not our day our score board. Every match was incredibly close, with most having only one goal in it. The team showed fantastic grit, determination and resilience throughout, with Thea making some brilliant turnovers in defence and Lola putting in a big shift in midfield. There were plenty of positives to take away, and this tournament has given us a strong foundation to build on as we look ahead to the Challenge Cup in November!

U18B Senior Counties

The second team had an incredible performance at Counties on Wednesday, finishing as runners-up after an intense final against St Catherine’s. The team started strongly with a 4-1 victory over Putney, featuring some excellent saves from Farris. Following hard-fought matches against GHS and St Catherine’s, Amber-Lilly’s solid re-defence, Summer’s impressive goals, and Emily’s crucial draws helped carry us through to our final knockout match. The team then immediately faced Caterham with no break after the St Catherine’s game. Despite this challenge, the girls maintained their determination and secured a 2-1 win, earning their place in the final. Delighted to have reached the final, the team was excited to compete. The match started strongly, with Ella scoring the opening goal, and the team fought hard until the final whistle. Unfortunately, we were unable to claim the Counties title.

Despite this, we are all incredibly proud of our performance and teamwork, which earned us a well-deserved runners-up finish. Congratulations to Hannah for being named MVP of the tournament, and to Emma for maintaining her excellent standard of play despite injury. The Defence (D-unit) communicated effectively and remained organised throughout, while the midfield showed great endurance winning some crucial draws and the attack executed their set plays to a high standard. Well, done to everyone who played, and I am truly excited to see how we continue to develop and grow as a team.

U18C Senior Counties

The 3s had a fantastic day at Counties. They started the group stages with hard fought draws against St Cats 3s (eventual winners of the whole tournament) and St Cats 4s. They went on to close the pool stages out with two great performances and wins versus Caterham 3s and GHS 4s. This qualified Claremont for the semi-final where they met a GHS 3s side that just two weeks ago had beaten us 11-3 in a Saturday fixture. The team performed admirably in a pressured game which ended in a 2-1 loss. Across the day there were moments of great teamwork in attack and some great organisation in our unit defence. Well done to all who played!

U18D Senior Counties

Our 4th team’s first tournament was a great opportunity to develop as a team. Despite the losses, spirits remained high throughout, with everyone showing great determination and enthusiasm. There were some excellent one-on-one plays, and moving forward, we will focus on improving our ground balls. Well done to everyone who played for their fantastic effort and positive attitude throughout!

U15A v Caterham

A measured game from the 15s with only two subs and some help from U14, Molly S helping out. Some excellent offensive ball movement resulted in some great team goals. There were moments of great communication and sliding in defence at crucial moments in the second half. Players’ MVPs went to Georgia D and Ella N. Coach’s MVP went to Mia H for adjusting after half time and implementing all the coaching points discussed and some great unselfish play in the offence.

U15B v Caterham School

Although the result did not go our way, there was plenty to celebrate in this fixture. The team showed significant improvement defensively, working together far more effectively and making Caterham work hard for every opportunity. A special mention goes to Rosie M, who was outstanding in defence and did an excellent job of restricting Caterham’s attack throughout the match.

The girls also demonstrated brilliant determination and resilience, continuing to battle hard until the final whistle despite the scoreline. Their positive attitude and commitment were a real credit to the team. Players of the Match were Emma F and Sylvie, both of whom impressed with their effort, enthusiasm and contributions across the game. Well done to all involved.

U14A v Caterham

For the last match of the half term, it was a fantastic way to finish. As a team we had focused on Two Man at the beginning of the week, so we knew we wanted to implement this into our match play. Due to past experiences with Caterham, we knew their team consisted of lots of amazing players, so we collectively decided to use Plays which could help us slow down these players so our defensive unit could prepare. As Caterham was the reason for us being knocked out of national, we also want to prove ourselves and our lacrosse. In the first half we found that the plays we used really helped us. It also made the flow through the pitch more slickly, and the defensive communication was off the charts making it incredibly easier for our defence to cause errors and turnovers. By the end of the first half, we were in comfortable enough for us to try and implement the TwoMan into our match play. It was a success! And we even managed to score a goal from it. In the end the score was 11-6 to Claremont, we were so proud and happy. It meant we could walk away from this half term with our heads held high knowing what we need to work on, what we our proud of and being excited for what is to come! Julia S and Holly W were recognised as Attacker and Defender of the match by the other team and Holly was also recognised as coach’s player of the match.

U14C v Caterham

The girls can be very proud of their performance, despite the final result. They worked hard as a team throughout the match and showed tremendous resilience, refusing to give up despite facing a strong Caterham side.

After regrouping at half-time, the team came out with renewed energy and determination, producing a particularly strong second-half performance. Their improved communication, teamwork and attacking play saw them win the second half 4-2, which was a fantastic achievement and reflected the effort they put in throughout the game. A special thank you goes to the girls who stayed on to play two matches, demonstrating outstanding commitment and enthusiasm for the team. Well done to all involved.

 

Netball

U15A – Surrey Schools

The U15s faced a challenging pool at the Surrey Schools Tournament, with five tough fixtures against strong opposition throughout the day. Despite the level of competition, the team rose to the challenge, matching the physicality of their opponents and showing great determination from the first whistle to the last.

Throughout the tournament, the girls played some excellent netball, moving the ball confidently through the court and forcing numerous turnovers with their defensive pressure and teamwork. Their efforts were rewarded with a convincing 8-4 victory over Priors Field, where the team showcased some of their best netball of the day.

Although the results did not always go their way, the team’s attitude and commitment never faltered. Every player continued to work tirelessly for one another, demonstrating resilience, grit and a positive spirit in every match.

A huge congratulations to all the players for their effort and determination throughout the day.

Players’ Player: Ellie & Lulu
Coach’s Player: Poppy

Well done to the entire squad for representing the school with such enthusiasm, teamwork and resilience. Your effort and commitment throughout the tournament were outstanding

U14A – Surrey Schools

The U14A Netball Team enjoyed a fantastic day at the Surrey Schools Tournament, competing with determination, teamwork and enthusiasm throughout.

In a highly competitive field, the girls performed exceptionally well to secure a commendable 4th place finish. Their hard work and commitment were evident in every match, with the team demonstrating excellent skill, resilience and sportsmanship across the day.

Highlights included a well-earned victory over Priors Field and a hard-fought draw against Charterhouse, both of which showcased the team’s ability to compete against strong opposition.

The girls should be incredibly proud of their achievements and the way they represented the school. Their positive attitude, teamwork and effort were outstanding from start to finish.

Players’ Player: Hattie and Millie

Coaches Player: Ella Pederson

Well done to all involved on a successful and enjoyable day of netball!

U16A SNS Netball Cup Match v SWPS

The U16A netball team put in a superb performance in their cup match against SWPS, narrowly losing 28-25 in a closely contested and highly competitive encounter.

The girls started strongly and played with confidence throughout the match, moving the ball effectively through the court and working hard for one another in both attack and defence. Their determination and teamwork saw them take the lead heading into the third quarter, putting themselves in a strong position against quality opposition up 19-16

However, despite their best efforts, SNS were unable to maintain their advantage in the final stages of the game. SWPS capitalised on a few key opportunities and edged ahead, but the SNS girls continued to fight until the final whistle, refusing to let their heads drop.

While disappointed not to get over the line after leading for much of the match, the team can take great pride in their performance. The girls showed resilience, composure and excellent teamwork throughout, pushing their opponents all the way and ultimately losing by a very respectable three-goal margin.

Well done to all the players for their effort, commitment and attitude. The performance was a credit to the team and provides plenty of positives to build on for the remainder of the season

U14A Cup Match v Streatham & Clapham High School

The U14A team showed tremendous resilience, determination and character in their cup match against Streatham & Clapham High School. Facing a strong and physical opposition, the girls found themselves eight goals behind after a difficult opening quarter. However, rather than letting their heads drop, they responded brilliantly and demonstrated exactly what this team is made of.

The second quarter was much more evenly contested, with SNS matching their opponent’s goal for goal. As the game progressed, the girls grew in confidence, producing some excellent passages of play and working tirelessly for one another across the court. Their determination saw them fight their way back into the match and close the gap to just a single goal, setting up an exciting finish.

Despite their best efforts, we were unable to complete the comeback and the match ended in a five-goal defeat. However, the scoreline did not reflect the immense spirit, teamwork and commitment shown throughout the game. Every player gave their all from the first whistle to the last, while the support and encouragement from the bench highlighted the strength and unity of the squad.

At the final whistle, there was a real sense of pride in the performance. The grit, resilience and togetherness displayed by the team were inspirational and perfectly embodied the qualities we are proud to see in Claremont athletes.

Players of the Match: Grace B & Isabella J

A huge well done to all involved on an outstanding team performance. The result may not have gone our way, but the attitude and fight shown throughout the match were worthy of the highest praise

U13A v Surbiton High School

The U13A team produced an excellent performance against Surbiton High School in a closely contested match that was competitive throughout. The girls showed great determination, teamwork and resilience, matching their opponents across the court and creating some fantastic passages of play.

Claremont started strongly and remained firmly in the contest throughout the game. Their hard work and commitment were particularly evident by the end of the third quarter, when they had battled back to trail by just 9-8, setting up an exciting final period. The team continued to fight for every ball and never gave up, demonstrating a tremendous attitude against a strong Surbiton side.

Despite their efforts, Surbiton managed to pull away in the closing stages, with the match ending 16-9. While the final score did not fully reflect how close the game was for much of the contest, the girls can be incredibly proud of their performance and the way they competed until the final whistle.

Special recognition goes to Elsa and Mia, who both delivered standout performances. Their skill, work rate and determination were instrumental in keeping SNS in the game and provided a fantastic example for the rest of the team.

A huge well done to all the players for their effort, commitment and teamwork. The performance showed great promise and there were many positives to take forward into future fixtures.

U13B  v Surbiton High School

The U13B team faced a strong Surbiton High side and, despite a determined effort, suffered a tough defeat. The girls worked hard throughout the match, showing great commitment and resilience against well-organised opposition.

Defensively, the team battled tirelessly and never gave up, working hard to disrupt Surbiton’s attacking play and create opportunities to regain possession. However, the attacking end found it difficult to convert chances into goals, and despite their best efforts, SNS were unable to get on the scoresheet.

While the result was disappointing, there were still positives to take from the match. The girls maintained their effort and attitude throughout, continuing to support one another and compete until the final whistle.

This fixture will provide valuable experience for the team, and their determination and willingness to keep working hard will undoubtedly help them improve as the season progresses.

Well done to all the players for their effort, perseverance and sportsmanship throughout the match

U13C v Surbiton High School

The U13C team played out an exciting and highly competitive draw against Surbiton High School in a match that was closely contested from start to finish.

Both teams showed great determination and worked hard throughout the game, with neither side able to gain a decisive advantage. SNS demonstrated excellent teamwork, moving the ball confidently through the court and supporting one another in both attack and defence. Their effort and commitment ensured they remained in the contest at every stage.

The girls showed resilience when under pressure and continued to fight for every ball, resulting in a well-earned draw at the final whistle. The match was a great example of the team’s improving confidence and understanding on court, with all players contributing positively to the result.

A fantastic performance from the whole squad in a competitive fixture. Well done to all the players for their hard work, teamwork and determination throughout the game

U13D v Surbiton High School

The U13D team faced a strong Surbiton High School side and, despite the result not going their way, showed great determination and commitment throughout the match.

The girls worked hard from the first whistle to the last, demonstrating excellent effort and teamwork across the court. They battled for possession, supported one another well, and never let their heads drop, even when faced with challenging opposition.

There were plenty of positive moments during the game, particularly in the team’s willingness to keep competing and encouraging each other throughout. A key area for development moving forward will be converting more of the team’s opportunities in the shooting circle. With continued practice and confidence in front of goal, the girls will be able to turn their hard work into more goals and closer results.

Although the outcome was disappointing, the team’s attitude, perseverance and work ethic were commendable. Well done to all the players for their effort and resilience, and we look forward to seeing their continued progress in future fixtures.

1st VII SNS Netball National Cup – Round 2

Claremont vs KCS

What a win! The 1st VII delivered an outstanding performance to secure a convincing 33-16 victory over KCS and book their place in Round 3 of the Sisters N Sport Trophy.

From the first whistle, SNS played with confidence, intensity and control, producing some excellent netball across the court. The team’s movement and decision-making were impressive throughout, creating numerous scoring opportunities and maintaining pressure on the opposition.

The shooting circle was particularly impressive, with Claremont converting chances consistently and demonstrating remarkable accuracy under pressure. The attacking combinations flowed brilliantly, helping the team build a commanding lead and ultimately secure a well-deserved 17-goal victory.

Defensively, the team worked tirelessly to force errors and win back possession, while the seamless transitions through court highlighted the strength and depth of the squad. It was a complete team performance and a fantastic display of the quality within the 1st VII.

Coach’s Player:  Annika Williams
Opposition Player:  Emily Russell

Congratulations to the entire squad on a superb result. A dominant performance, exceptional teamwork and a deserved place in the next round of the National Trophy. Good luck in Round 3

 

Rugby

1st XV v The Oratory School

After a long trip to Reading, Claremont played The Oratory. The first half was a battle, with plenty of chances for both sides. Will M dived over in the corner after a period of sustained pressure from the Claremont pack. With the score17-7 at the break the Claremont backs turned on the burners and the tries started to flow. Dynamic runs from Luca L and Lucas R in the centres gave Claremont front foot ball. Harry F scored a brace, and after a prolonged scuttle from Max O, Louie G powered over. From then on, this side clicked. Powerful runs from Max S and Ed C shut out the hosts. A true team performance from this tight group. Next up Riddlesdown in the cup and this side will be keen to press on. Player of the match was Louie G for a stunning hattrick.

1st XV v Riidlesdown Collegiate

Sadly due to Riddlesdown Colligate not being able to field a team, Claremont progress to the next round, and regional quarter final of the Continental Bowl. Looking at the draw, Claremont’s progress to the area semi-final where they will play away against the winners of Dartford Grammar School vs Hinchley Wood, rests on the next round against Wallington Grammar.

2nd XV v Richard Challoner

A somewhat chastening defeat, saw a much changed Claremont side lose to a powerful Richard Challoner team in a one sided affair. Several enforced call ups saw this match represent more of the 3rd XV than the 2nd, a variety of late withdrawals exposing the team. Challoner were direct, giving Claremont little opportunity, the game won by half time, but it was pleasing to see the home team continue to battle, despite the disparity, Jamie C prominent in the rearguard action, Leo S rewarded for his stand out performance with the final try of the match.

3rd XV v Cranmore

A tough day out for the 3s, well beaten by a decent Cranmore side, that revelled in the wide expanses of the Esher 1st team pitch. Claremont put together some decent phases but lacked the physicality and composure to make significant inroads. Jamie C deserves special mention for a fine battling defensive performance, on a day when tackling was at a premium.

U12A v Richard Challoner

Simply this was a very tough day for the As. The first five minutes was a good contest with early exchange of tries with Claremont crossing the line by Henry H. The hosts had a much larger and dynamic team linking well to stretch Claremont. Simple errors from Claremont gave the hosts easy ball. After a strong half time talk, the pack begun to engage with hard runs from Max N and Jackson. But they couldn’t stem the tide. The boys will bounce back knowing the level that they want to be at. Player of the match was Max N for assertive runs.

U12B v Richard Challoner

A fun game saw the home side take the spoils, but not before Claremont had made strides in developing better game and field awareness. Some resolute defence mostly contained two considerably larger boys, Stepan C led the way, determined and direct, with good support from Digby S and Seb S in particular. Some loose interpretation of the offside laws allowed the game to have a somewhat frenetic flow, with tries aplenty characterizing a frantic run around.