Newport on a high after double triumph

Nearly 100 girls from schools across the country participated in under-13 and under-15 competitions held at Aldersley Stadium in Wolverhampton.

The event is part of a three-year Cameron Homes initiative to support interest in handball which will see £45,000 spent to provide coaching sessions throughout the year.

Sides from across the West Midlands, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire had to come through qualifying tournaments to reach the finals.

And it was Newport Girls High School who were celebrating after winning both tournaments.

They did so with a clear victory over Bishop Walsh of Sutton Coldfield in the older age group, but dramatically left it until the final minute to seal victory in the under-13s final against Arthur Terry School of Aldridge.

England Handball Association Midlands academy manager Nenad Popovic deemed the tournament a success and was delighted with the backing from Cameron Homes.

“Without the financial backing of Chasetown-based Cameron Homes, handball would have little chance for development,” said Popovic, who hopes to make the event a regular fixture in the sporting calendar.

“The three-year commitment not only provides an opportunity for schools to embed the sport into their programme but also supports three local clubs to help girls access additional coaching and competitive experience.”

Danielle Goffe-Wood of Galliers Homes, who presented the trophies, welcomed so many young ladies participating in handball.

“The event is testament to the success of the project and the engagement it has promoted in schools across the region,” said Goffe-Wood.