Newsletter Sport - T1 2019/2020 by BSAK Abu Dhabi

Wow! After reviewing the contents of the termly PE and Sport Newsletter, it is amazing to be reminded of how many sporting opportunities are on offer to the students. From competing in international and regional competitions, local leagues and daily sports in Abu Dhabi, the PE department and students are always on the go and giving their all for @BSAKsports. In total, 31 teams played 132 fixtures and were supported by 40 members of staff. There are so many highlights; one for me personally were seeing two girls take up netball for the first time at U19 level and competing for the full season. When they won their first-ever medals at the End of Season tournament, it was fantastic to see just how proud they were. A second is quite an incredible feat for the school and its athletes - BSAK retained the BSME U15 trophy for the fourth year in a row. The BSAK 7s and the Dubai 7s were other highlights in such a productive and successful term. I am looking forward to seeing the teams continue to develop and compete and wish you all a restful and enjoyable festive season.

NOVEMBER 8 2019 The BSAK 7s Series is now in its 7th year and is one of the biggest school tournaments held in the UAE. Schools from across the emirates compete in Rugby, Netball and Football from U12 through to U19. Not only do the teams compete against each other in individual tournaments for each sport, but the final positions are also ranked over the three competitions. Each school then has their scores combined for all sports producing an overall winner of the BSAK 7s Series We look forward to the football in February.

The tournament is organised by the PE Department with the Heads of Rugby, Netball and Football leading their respective tournaments. It is a real BSAK community event with over 70 members of staff and a significant amount of parents volunteering to help. From pitch marshaling to scorekeeping the BSAK volunteers are the energy and expertise that keep each tournament running smoothly on the day. The competitions couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run as they do without our team of volunteers from across the school. The first tournaments of the 2019/20 series were held on Friday 8th November at Zayed Cricket Stadium, working with our new partners, Abu Dhabi Cricket. Day 1 of the series saw our Rugby and Netball teams in action.

NOVEMBER 8 2019 “I would like to thank the team of volunteers who help us stage this tournament. It is a real community event. The teams all played in the spirit of the game and the passion and determination was there to be seen on every court.” Mrs Bolger, Head of Netball

“The rugby tournament was a massive success. The standard of competition gets better every year and it is clear that the boys and girls really enjoy a 7s tournament.” Mr Thomas, Head of Rugby

In November 2016 BSAK entered, for the first time, a team into the BSME U15 Games. After hours of preparation and commitment from the team during the competition, they were rewarded with an overall win. BSAK also won the tournament in 2017 and 2018. For the 2019 U15 BSME team the pressure of successfully retaining the title for an unprecedented 4th year was very motivating and often discussed during training. The ethos has always been that if the teams can place in the top 4 in football, volleyball, netball and athletics, then BSAK have a fighting chance of overall victory. Day 1 of the tournament saw us at the football pitches and an outstanding performance from the boys earned them first place. A battling performance from the girls saw them finish in third. Day 2 of the competition saw the girls take centre stage with an unbeaten performances and first place in the netball. In a tough volleyball tournament the boys struggled to meet their potential and were placed sixth. Day 3 was athletics and the results from the previous two days meant that a top 4 finish was needed for overall victory in the Games. BSAK often narrates on exceeding expectations and it was a pleasure to see the level our athletes reached during the athletics competition. Overall third position in athletics, with some outstanding performances, assured us of overall victory. We were champions for a fourth year running! Every year our students show that commitment, preparation and teamwork are the attributes that bring success and the results are proof of this - U15 BSME Champions in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019!

'I was always looking to take the boys to an international tournament and the inaugural World School Football competition was the opportunity to do just that. To take such a talented group of footballers on a tour was an opportunity to good to turn down. Playing a range of footballing styles was exactly the challenge that we wanted for the boys. I could not be prouder how the team represented themselves, and BSAK, with distinction' Mr Kirkland “The success of this group of players is a result of how they have grown as a team. At the start of the season there was very much an individual approach but, through the tournament, the boys showed just how well they gelled as a team. The tour provided a great opportunity for learning, development and challenge which helped build a collective intelligence. It also created a platform for players to bond and for individuals to set targets for their own personal progress to help in meeting the team goal. Yassin received the tournaments ‘Golden Boot’ which is an amazing achievement at an international tournament. We are very proud of the boys efforts this season.” Mr Paradise

It has been a fantastic first term for the BSAK Primary Swim Squad who attended three Primary Galas and won one and came second in the other. The Primary Swim Captains, Harry and Darcey, have led by example and been great role models for the younger swimmers. There have been standout performers across all age ranges, but the strength and depth of the squad has been highlighted by the numerous first places the relay teams have earned. While it takes a squad to win a gala, there have been standout performances from Esmay, Sienna, Kailia, Luke, Stephanie, Norelle, Davide, Yousef, Alannah and Darcey. They have all won individual events and contributed greatly to the overall success of BSAK’s swim programme.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has been a great term for the squad and another set of fantastic results. The swimmers always do BSAK proud and this term has been no exception. A special thank you to our Secondary swim captain Mette who is a great help to myself and a fantastic role model.â&#x20AC;? Mr Sewill This has been another great term for the Secondary swim squad. The students showed great attitude, commitment and enthusiasm throughout the season, both in training and in competitive galas. Many of the students are up at 5am to attend 6am training sessions and over the term their hard work in the pool is very evident. They have become fitter, stronger and have really developed as BSAK swimmers. We have seen some students represent BSAK in the pool for the first time this year and it has been fantastic to see the more experienced swimmers mentor and support them. At every gala, the students always do the school proud by not only showcasing their unbelievable swimming but also being lovely young men and women, acting as positive role models for BSAK. We have attended three swim galas this term and have been crowned Abu Dhabi champions on all three occasions. I think this highlights the quality we have within the BSAK squad. At the last gala at Brighton, many other schools commented how polite the students are and how they conduct themselves in such a gracious manner. This is actually more important than them winning and makes me very proud.

This year BSAK U9 Touch Rugby has focused on developing the fundamental skills that will provide our young rugby players with the foundations required for a life long participation in the sport. We have focused on inclusive opportunity for all, catering for those new to the sport and those players with greater experience. Practices have always been well attended with over 30 boys and girls pushing for places in the competitive teams. The development of game understanding through playing the competitive fixtures has been great to witness in both the A & B Squads. Both teams have posted a range of results across the term and have taken on board the lessons learnt week in, week out. I have been really impressed with the attitude and effort from all players and how they have stuck to the task in each and every game.

“It has been great to see the players develop individually and as a team across the term. With so many playing the game for the first time, I have really enjoyed seeing them develop in this form of rugby. “ Rob Kirkland

The U9 End of Season Tournament was held in the week before the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens tournament and the New Zealand Sevens squad were training at Zayed Cricket Stadium. Their players talked to our teams about what it was like to play for the ‘All Blacks’ and the origins of the Haka. A very special opportunity for the boys and girls to experience and something I am sure they will never forget (I won’t!).

Through the term, the girls and boys displayed their skill and overall understanding of the game in both defensive and attacking aspects of rugby. One of the core skills they learnt was to run forward and perform evasive manoeuvres instead of running sideways or backwards. Learning how to stay onside was also a focus of many training sessions and it was good to see them implement those skills during games. Most importantly, everyone’s confidence grew the more they played as did their visible passion for the game. During the term the squad showed that they have also learnt the core values of rugby, integrity and respect, and will be ready to develop their game further next year. For the End of Season Tournament, the coaches had the depth in the squad to pick two equally strong teams to compete in the competition. Showcasing their skills, both teams progressed into the later stages of the tournament. The teamwork was outstanding and one example was when Padraig set up Elliot for the try of the season to level the scores in the 3rd and 4th playoff game.

The U9A girls won the Abu Dhabi Sports Cup with an incredible all day effort at this year’s tournament. Winning two and drawing two games in the group, they progressed to the semi-final where they defeated league champions Al Muna on penalties. Jovie and Sofia were our penalty scorers. In the final they met Amity and played their best game of the whole tournament putting huge pressure on the Amity goal for the entire game, eventually scoring with a bullet from Quinn and winning 1-0. The entire squad deserve so much praise for their determination, teamwork and sheer will to win.

The girls in the under 9B team have had a great season with lots of fun. The season was the first chance for lots of girls to try out competitive sport and they all certainly rose to the challenge. The girls worked hard each week in training and their skill level has really increased. The girls enjoyed meeting players from other teams. They had some great wins, winning matching against Repton and The Pearl. Unfortunately, we didn't win the end of season tournament but we certainly enjoyed going on the bus to Yasmina and learnt what we can improve for the next time.

‘I would like to thank all the parents for their support throughout the season for supporting the girls. We have worked hard on our attacking and defensive skills and worked on getting into space. During the games I could see the girls using their new skills and they certainly have a great level of skill to build on next year. It has been a pleasure.’ Mr Fern, U9 Football Coach

All of the girls who have played football this term have been amazing! We have enjoyed a fantastic season and due to the dedication and enthusiasm of the girls we were able to field three teams. Every child played in a competitive fixture and represented BSAK in such a positive manner. As coaches, myself and Mr Hogan, could not be any prouder of every single footballer in the under 11 squad. It has been an absolute pleasure coaching the girls; They have educated me on hand shakes and songs, but most importantly we had a great time in seeing the girls’ football skills really develop. I will miss this group and I am certain that they will all go on and continue to represent BSAK in many other sports at older age group level as they move through the school. The end of season tournament allowed us to showcase how talented the girls are. They played a number of games against many schools in Abu Dhabi, scoring a total of 16 goals and conceding 0. This resulted in the girls being crowned Abu Dhabi Under 11 girls champions 2019. Superstars!

‘We were crowned both league and cup champions. However, the real success was seeing a group of very happy students supporting each other on a weekly basis and developing skills such as organisation and communication. Well done all!’ Mr Sweill

The U13A squad developed as individuals and a team over the course of the season. They are individually technically accomplished and are able to move the ball with purpose and play with a developing understanding of tactics to break down teams playing with a variety of styles. They were undefeated in the league, only dropping two points and entertaining those watching with their fluid play and plenty of goals. In the final game of the season they demonstrated some of their best football to go out on a high. Champions! In the 7 a side end of season, played at the Cricket Stadium, the boys didn’t enjoy the rub of the green and weren’t able to amass the points required to progress to the semi-finals after too many draws in the group stage. They still played some attractive football but on the day it wasn’t to be. In all a very successful season and the boys have much to look forward to at the BSAK 7s and moving forward into next year. They will go far.

The U13B team worked really hard during training sessions and as the season progressed they came together and really improved their gameplay, individual skills and teamwork. It was a pleasure to coach them and support them in their fixtures. They played 7 competitive games, winning 5 and losing 2 and this gave them 2nd place in the ADISSA league. 'What was most impressive about the boys, was there commitment to BSAK way of playing football. They were positive and brave on the ball, hardworking, strong in the tackle and at all times, exemplary sportsmen - a real credit to the Jersey.’ Mr Payne U13B Coach To have the depth of squad in the U13 age group to have a C squad is a testament to the boys' passion for football and the desire and dedication to play for the School. Training once a week this squad worked hard on core football skills and team dynamics. The boys played 5 home games and 2 away fixtures in their league and came away with 1 win and 1 draw. The boys should be congratulated on their attitude and commitment to the team. ‘C team captain Rayhan lead by example in all our matches with a never give up attitude whilst often up against some smaller schools A teams.’ Mr Edgar U13C Coach

The season provided a number of good challenges and development opportunities. The U15A squad ended the season runners-up in the League and Cup winners at the End of Season Tournament. They played with free flowing football, with a good level of intensity and control. The team were exposed to an international tournament in Barcelona at the World Schools Football Cup where they competed superbly. The quality of football they played was a result of their togetherness. The End of Season tournament was tightly contested and the team made it to the final. At full time, the score was 0-0 and then the penalties were 1-1 and it became sudden death. Keeping their cool, the boys won 2-1. The boys showed a good level of tactical awareness, togetherness and ability to continue to push themselves to reach their targets and overall were deserved winners of the tournament.

I was very impressed with the attitude of all of the players this year. Throughout the league campaign, I felt the boys continued to improve and gel together as a team, eventually finishing the league as champions. After a set back against Al Yasmina, the team bounced back to win their remaining games to win the league. A very strong performance throughout the ADISSA Cup showed just how far the team had come; tactically strong and physically fit we performed very well throughout the tournament, unlucky to be beaten in the final by a more clinical Cranleigh. I am very proud of all of the boys who played a part in this season and we look forward to competing for more trophies next term. I would like to say a special well done to our Year 13 students who have now played their last league fixture for BSAK, and everyone here at BSAK wishes you all the very best for the future.

Josh Thompson, U19B Captain says, “It was a pleasure to captain the team throughout this season. Starting the season with a convincing win, we kept momentum running throughout the rest of our games. Developing chemistry as a team and applying skills and tactics learnt in training into games, made us a feared team in the league. The highlight of the season came with a strong win against Al Yasmina where the team put together the best performance of the season while continuing to show excellent sportsmanship. We were all very upset to see one of our team mates injured with a broken arm and we all wished him a fast recovery so he could get back on the field as soon as possible. The End of Season tournament was also a great success. We lost our first game and mentally, we were not on form, but then we pulled it together and won the rest of our matches. The final was against the team we lost to and we ended up winning 3-2. Overall I am immensely proud of the B team and I’m sure all the younger boys will continue playing competitive football for BSAK throughout their years to come. I felt this was a great send off for our Year 13s as we had a great season with great coaches and an excellent set of players.” Abdulla | Ahmed | Alexander | Ali | Archie | Carl | Cathal | Christopher | Emile | Hamdan | Johnathan | Joseph Joshua | Kaden | Khaled | Khaled | Lewis | Luke | Mana| Mehdi | Milo | Murray | Nathan | Oliver | Omar | Richard Seb | Sebastian | Zane

It has been a great season for U13 netball with an A, B and C team entered in to the ADISSA leagues. The introduction of a C team has allowed an increased number of girls to develop and improve their netball skills. A huge thank you to Mrs Holcroft for coaching the team - without her competitive fixtures would not have been possible. The girls have been a pleasure to coach and we have seen them improve week by week. In training sessions they showed great commitment and enthusiasm and it was great to see the girls develop over the season and learn to play in different positions.

The teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; successes have not gone unnoticed as they have added various trophies to the trophy cabinet at BSAK. The U13A team came third in the league and at the tournament. The girls gave a great performance in the tournament only missing out on the final on goal difference. The U13B team came second in the league and finished second in the tournament after a thrilling close final with Cranleigh B. The U13C team also finished second in their league.

What a fantastic season the Under 15 squad have enjoyed. I am extremely proud of both squads this term - not only were they winners of the ADISSA A and B league for their age group, both teams also secured winning trophies at their End of Season tournaments. It was an absolute pleasure to coach the U15A squad and to watch them all improve their individual skills, tactics and gameplay. They stayed extremely committed to the sport throughout the term and having the opportunity to coach girls that want to learn and to improve makes me extremely proud as the Head of Netball. Well done on another fantastic season girls! 'I have loved working with the girls this term. Enthusiastic and competitive, the girls enjoyed their victories but yet remained respectful to their opponents. They have done themselves proud.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mrs Greene, Coach of the B team

The Under 19 netball squad were a pleasure to coach this season. Both the A and B teams went from strength to strength and they came away as overall League and End of Season tournament winners. The Under 19A team played a fast, skilful netball game this season and won their games convincingly each week. The level of skill from the team was exceptional this season and they should be proud of their individual performances and their commitment to the sport. Training was open to all to train this term and it was nice to see lots of new faces in the B squad. Mrs Rose was the Under 19B team coach and she had the following to say about the team: ‘As a squad you have been a pleasure to coach and support on this journey. We look forward to welcoming you all back next season to build on your success. “

The 2019 season has seen the U15s finish as runners-up in both the ADISSA League and the Super Sevens Cup. Although the team found a way to defeat its arch-nemesis Cranleigh in both tournaments, in the end the GEMS Cambridge side proved too strong this year. The U15s were once again superbly captained by Ishaan and benefitted from excellent batting contributions from Rochan and Arnav. The pick of the bowling attack was Ayan who also excelled with his pace bowling for the U19s. With many of the team including Rochan and Ayan eligible for the U15s again next year, the future looks very positive and hopefully BSAK can go one step further in 2020.

A summer of Ben Stokes left cricket fans and neutrals alike admiring the beauty of the game. Our inspired U19 squad delivered with passionate performances as ADISSA kick-started a league for this age group. We finished as runners-up overall in the league and third place in the Super 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tournament. Our captain Chris leads by example and many a time his calm, collected and progressive batting nature helped him flourish as an opener. Partnered by Joshua, they formed a formidable opening partnership which was difficult for teams to break down. Both Alex and Shayaan added to the attack as aggressive hard hitting batsmen who were able to tally up the runs with pace. The squad had a host of quality bowlers. Amongst the regular wicket takers were Abdullah, Vedant and Nithila. Special praise must be reserved for our pace bowler Ayaan who took multiple wickets in every game he played. The U19 squad consisted of some of our U15 players who were selected to play at this level in order to develop their skills further. Arnav Gandhi and Archit Kumar were players who benefitted from the experience with successful batting and bowling spells. Rochan Dasgupta proved to be a rising star as an all-rounder as he bowled some unplayable spin whilst scoring consistent runs with the bat. Victories over GEMS Cambridge and Cranleigh AD were positive highlights for the team. Overall, the games were played in good spirit and the team formed a close bond over the course of the season which meant they returned with a smile each week and gave their all for their teammates. We will look to build on this foundation next year as we aim to win first place trophies.

The pinnacle of the rugby season is the Dubai 7s and for the 4th consecutive year BSAK entered a girls team. From a strong squad training every week at school, it was a very tough task to select the 12 girls. On Friday the first game ended for us with a strong win against the Hurricanes. The next group games were against the Knighteagles and DESC and the team finished second in the group. Finally, after a long Friday, and under the floodlights, the girls faced a quarter-final with Al Ain Amblers. This game could have gone either way but a resilient performance led to the girls qualifying for the semi-finals on Saturday. Running on to the pitch for the semi-final the girls were the highest performing school left in the competition. It wasn't our day in the semi-final, losing to the reigning champions, Dubai Exiles. NAMES OF

With Mr Edger and Coach Epeli at the helm of this very talented age group, there were early signs that this team would be successful this term. The playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; enthusiasm and commitment to the game were visible from the start. In training the squad followed instructions with a smile on their faces and, week by week, core skills improved along with their understanding of the game. This has resulted in a fantastic showing at the DC 7s. Looking forward to next term the team are in a very good position to move on to play 15s.

The U16s have shown that they continue to make big strides in their rugby development. They competed in several tournaments over the term. At the BSAK 7s they showed how much their game understanding and skills had improved. Monty has shown real leadership on and off the field and has packed a punch by leading from the front. Senior players led the charge with some barnstorming carries and tackles and set the tone for the new players to U16 rugby. This team was very coachable and should be proud of what they have achieved. Next term, the 15s season will stretch these boys and you can tell they are up for the challenge.

This has been a fantastic season with some strong performances. The team has played a huge amount of competitive 7s this term, starting at DESC with the floodlit event and ending with a huge effort up at the Dubai 7s where the boys reached the quarter-finals. Under the captaincy of Jonny, the team demonstrated a phenomenal work effort with early morning gym sessions, mid-week trips to Dubai and weekend commitments. This has highlighted what a strong team they have developed into. A special thank you must go to all the Year 13s who have added so much to the 7s programme over the last couple of seasons and have proven themselves fantastic role models for the young players who are enjoying their first taste of U19 rugby. A final thank you must go to Mr Brammer and Mr Thompson for their excellent coaching and support of the players.