Superb Effort and Pride at the Fives National Finals

Despite the incredible effort and top performances at the National Rugby Schools Fives Tournament this week, the Alleyn’s singles and doubles were narrowly defeated in the finals. We were so proud of the effort and commitment shown by the boys, not just in this tournament but also throughout the season. For the Year 13s, this means years of training and competition, improving year on year to reach such impressive standards. We wish them the best of luck in their future sporting lives!

In the U14s doubles, Milo and Archie lost in a very close match in the semis. In the U16s final, Theo lost by only three points in the third and deciding set against a superb, top sportsman - a National tennis player - from Merchiston Castle school. It could not have been closer, and the game plan had to be adjusted to account for Theo’s excruciating “tennis elbow” pain which he had battled through the previous day. He soldiered on with incredible determination and nearly crossed the line first!

In the doubles competition, Theo and Lori were defeated in an epic three-setter against Edinburgh Academy. Alleyn’s won the first set, but Theo began losing the struggle against his injury which took its toll on the pair’s effectiveness. It was desperately close. Well done to Theo for displaying extraordinary grit and sportsmanship throughout.

The U18 singles were equally tough. Gwydion and Stuart also fought hard in their individual games. In the final, Winchester played exceptionally well to prevail against Gwydion, the tournament favourite and looking to equal the record of three Open wins. The pressure of defending the top national seed position for the fourth year was immense.

The doubles was a great game, but Winchester were outstanding and made almost no errors in what was an astonishingly fast-paced encounter between four outstanding players. Stuart and Gwydion were happy with their performance - quite rightly! -  and ended their outstanding School Fives career playing together at a breathtaking level.

Dozens of Alleyn’s players took part to represent their school over the past three days. Much blood, sweat, pain and tears went into countless group stages, plates and play-offs. It was a real feast of Fives for many pupils around the country who just love playing this exciting sport. It was wonderful to see the results of Alleyn’s incredible support for the pupils’ sporting passions in its full glory. The Fives players have been wonderful ambassadors for the School this week after another season of passionate commitment and hard work.

Our thanks go to St Paul’s School in Barnes for hosting this adrenaline filled event.