In an outstanding display of skill, teamwork, and determination, Calday School’s sports teams have left an indelible mark on the half term, achieving remarkable successes across a range of sports including football, hockey, running and rugby.
The school’s sports calendar kicked off with a flurry of activity, setting the tone for what would become a term filled with victories and commendable performances. The hockey teams faced tough competition, with the Under 12, Under 15, and Under 13 teams claiming victories against Merchant Taylors with scores of 2-1, 2-1, and a resounding 5-1 respectively. The rugby teams also showed their mettle in a Saturday morning triangular tournament against Wirral GS and Birkenhead School, with notable wins in various age groups, highlighting the depth of talent within the school.
A particularly memorable moment came on the 22nd of January when the Under 18 hockey team, bolstered by a last-minute inclusion of Charlie Kearsley, made a triumphant start in the U18 English Hockey Cup. Kearsley’s debut goal was a highlight, showcasing the team’s spirit and adaptability.
The Under 15 Rugby team also captured headlines with their progression to the Quarter Finals of the Natwest Vase on the 25th of January, following a thrilling 33-26 win over Kings School Grantham. Their success was mirrored by the Under 18 Football Team, who edged out Sandbach 2-1 to advance to the Quarter Finals of the ESFA B Cup, setting up an eagerly anticipated clash with Manchester Grammar School.
On the hockey pitch, the Under 13 team showcased their dominance with a 5-0 victory over Cheadle Hulme in the Independent Schools Hockey Cup, and the Under 12 Football Team’s victory against St Margaret’s reaffirmed their contender status in the ESFA Schools Cup.
The school’s Year 10 Football team also made waves, securing a spot in the last 16 of the Merseyside cup with a stunning 10-0 win, while the Year 8 Hockey Team clinched 2nd Place at the Manchester Grammar School Powerplay Hockey Tournament. The event was a testament to the team’s prowess, with Harrison McCabe earning the title of striker of the tournament.
February began with further triumphs. The Under 15 Football Team advanced to the Quarter Final of the Cheshire Cup with a 5-3 victory, and the rugby teams concluded their season with a series of matches against Manchester GS, demonstrating the depth of talent across the age groups.
A significant achievement came from the school’s participation in the prestigious King Henry relay race, where the Calday A team placed 9th out of 56, proving themselves as the fastest boy’s team from the Wirral. Alex Poulston stood out with the 7th fastest lap of the day, highlighting individual excellence within the team.
As the term progressed, the Under 15 Rugby Team headed to Cambridge for a Semi-Final spot in the Continental Tyres National Vase, embodying the school’s competitive spirit. The Under 18 ESGA B Cup squad also made headlines, defeating Manchester Grammar School 3-1 to reach the Semi-Final of the ESFA B Cup, with goals from Birch, Poe, and Lane.
The Under 12s continued to shine, reaching the Quarter Finals of the ESFA Cup and demonstrating resilience by winning 4-3 on penalties against Lymm. Their success, alongside the Under 12 Hockey Team qualifying for the North Finals, encapsulates a term of unparalleled achievement.
As Calday School looks back on a half term filled with success, the dedication of players, coaches, and supporters is evident. The achievements across football, hockey, running and rugby not only highlight the talent within the school but also the commitment to excellence in sports. With many teams advancing in prestigious competitions, the school community eagerly anticipates continued success in the coming terms.
