The annual East Sutherland Schools Sports Association badminton tournament returned to Golspie High School recently — and what an afternoon it was.
More than 100 matches were played across the event, with pupils from primary schools across East Sutherland competing in a brand new junior format. Four boys and four girls from each school took part, ranked from 1–4 and placed into round robin leagues. Games were played to 11 points, with the final played to 15.
The competition was predominantly for P6 and P7 pupils, though a number of younger players from Rogart Primary School were also welcomed — a lovely touch that showed the inclusive spirit of the event.
There were so many close games, excellent rallies as well as a positive atmosphere amongst the players and adults attending.
Active Schools Co-ordinator
A day of great matches
In the first round alone, 51 girls' matches and 42 boys' matches were played — keeping everyone busy throughout the afternoon! Young Leaders from Golspie and Kinlochbervie High Schools were on hand to help run the event alongside Active Schools volunteers.
Elissa Stevenson, our Active Schools Co-ordinator, who helped organise the tournament, said:
"It was a very busy afternoon with all the games that had to be played but it was great to be able to increase the numbers of players attending by using the new format. There were so many close games, excellent rallies as well as a positive atmosphere amongst the players and adults attending.
"As much as there is a competitive element to the event, making sure the players are enjoying badminton is as important — and witnessing good sportsmanship between the opponents and to their umpire."
Elissa also paid tribute to everyone who made the day possible:
"I'd like to thank the volunteers, school staff and sports leaders who led the training sessions leading up to this event, as well as the young leaders and volunteers who assisted with the running of the tournament. We are especially grateful to Brian Donaldson, Regional Development Officer with Badminton Scotland, who was able to join us on the day."
The results
Medals were awarded to the top three players in both the girls' and boys' competitions, with trophies for the overall winners.
Girls
- 1st — Bailey Cameron, Brora Primary School
- 2nd — Nixie MacDonald, Bonar Bridge Primary School
- 3rd — Ruby Stevenson, Bonar Bridge Primary School
Boys
- 1st — Shay Cowie, Helmsdale Primary School
- 2nd — Stepan Jonak, Helmsdale Primary School
- 3rd — Sholto Shaw, Helmsdale Primary School
A remarkable clean sweep for Helmsdale Primary School in the boys' competition — congratulations to Shay, Stepan, and Sholto!
Well done to every pupil who took part, and a huge thank you to all the volunteers, leaders, and staff who made the day such a success.
