Inaugural U11 Netball Festival Showcases Young Talent at Ellesmere

On Saturday 3rd May 2025, Ellesmere College proudly hosted its inaugural Under 11 Netball Festival, bringing together young players for a fantastic day of sport, camaraderie, and inspiration.

The event welcomed eight teams in total, including six club teams and two school teams, all eager to take part in a round-robin style tournament. The day served not only as a competitive fixture, but also as a celebration of team spirit, skill development, and enjoyment of the game.

A particular highlight was the involvement of Ella Maltby, former Ellesmere student and 2023/24 Manchester Thunder netball player. Ella led an engaging shooting drill and skills workshop, offering valuable insights and encouragement to the participants. Her presence added an aspirational dimension to the day, demonstrating where commitment to the sport can lead.

Throughout the tournament, players demonstrated impressive levels of sportsmanship, enthusiasm, and determination, making the event a positive experience for all involved. Every match was played with energy and fairness, and it was clear to see the progress and potential among these young athletes.

We are delighted to congratulate the ND Lightning, who were crowned overall winners of the festival after a series of strong performances. A special mention also goes to the Ellesmere Ravens, who represented the College superbly and finished in second place.

Our sincere thanks go to all the coaches, volunteers, umpires, supporters, and of course, the players, who contributed to the success of this memorable day. We look forward to building on this year's festival and welcoming even more teams to Ellesmere in the future.