11 February 2026
Miss Jaclyn Leach, Director of Sport
The first half term of 2026 has been exceptionally busy and successful for Woldingham sport, with students demonstrating commitment, resilience and team spirit across a wide range of activities.
Netball
The netball season got off to a flying start with preseason training sessions in early January. Students across all age groups embraced a programme of skills, strength and conditioning, and match play, setting an excellent tone for the competitive season ahead. A particular highlight was the opportunity for our U12 and U13 players to be coached by England U21 international and Birmingham Panthers Superleague player, Tami Fapohunda (pictured). Tami’s insight, alongside the presence of experienced external umpires, provided invaluable learning opportunities around game awareness, discipline and positive communication on court.
In the Sisters in Sport competition, the 1st VII secured a convincing win against a strong Barking Abbey side to progress to the final 16. Although their impressive cup run later came to an end against Cranleigh in a thrilling final-minute defeat, reaching the fourth round is a significant achievement and a testament to the team’s quality and resilience.
Across the school, weekend block fixtures and league matches produced a strong set of results, with numerous close contests highlighting the determination and progress of our teams. We have enjoyed playing some new, and tough, opposition, including Epsom College, St George’s, Hurstpierpoint and Sevenoaks, with some excellent learning opportunities as well as plenty of confidence-boosting performances.
It has been particularly encouraging to see so many students enjoying their first netball fixtures of the season and continuing to develop confidence in competitive environments.
Hockey
The hockey season has continued in earnest for the U15 XI as they played Croydon High in the third round match of the Sisters in Sport Cup earlier this week. The first half saw the girls create multiple opportunities in front of the goal, though they couldn’t quite convert these chances. However, they forged ahead in relentless style in the second half, finally putting away two goals to seal the match. It was a full squad performance, with every single player doing her job. To the quarter-finals we go!
The U12 XI are into the Sisters in Sport Plate competition and are awaiting confirmation of their first round opponents.
Cricket
Cricket has continued to thrive, with students showing brilliant commitment. The U12s and U13s enjoyed very competitive matches at the MCC Indoor Competition, which took place at Lord’s. Our U15s continue to show impressive talent and tenacity, coming through a very competitive Area Finals against Ashcombe and Reigate Grammar to progress to the County Finals later this term.
As he approached the halfway point of his busy first year at Woldingham, Mr Sharma, Head of Cricket, was interviewed by our Sport Ribbon, Lily, as you can read at the end of this article.
Swimming, Cross Country and Football
Our swimmers have continued to impress in both friendly galas and district competitions, edging ever closer to district titles and producing a series of top three finishes. Our cross-country runners battled tough conditions at Knole Park with real determination. In football, the U12s and U13s have enjoyed taking part in both the District League and District Tournaments, showing great progress with every match played.
Skiing
All members of our ski race team performed superbly at the British Schoolgirl Ski Races in Flaine, France - a demanding and highly competitive competition. Their performances, teamwork and resilience were outstanding, with several notable individual achievements reflecting the exceptionally high standard of skiing on display - once again, one of our unregistered skiers skied her way into the registered competition, which is an incredible achievement.
Very well done to Megan, Emilia, Grace, Athena, Alice and Noush for representing Woldingham with such determination, skill and pride. Thank you to Mrs Daley and Mrs Cornelius for organising the trip and accompanying the girls across the four days.
Throughout this period, what has stood out most has been the attitude of the students: balancing busy schedules, representing the school with pride, and supporting one another across sports. From preseason preparation to cup competitions and league fixtures, Woldingham sport continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication of its athletes and the support of staff and coaches.
Lily’s interview with Mr Sharma, Head of Cricket
How have you found your first few terms at Woldingham? Everyone has been so nice and very welcoming, and I have been impressed by the commitment and passion for sport that I have found here.
As Head of Cricket, what are you most excited to develop or improve this year? I’d like to see more girls playing cricket outside as well as inside school. Cricket is a wonderfully sociable sport.
How important is strength and conditioning for young athletes, and what should students focus on? It’s very important. Look at how professionals do it to both aid them playing their sport and to help reduce injury. It’s also really important to make sure you stretch and cool down.
What's the biggest myth students believe about training or fitness? That pain = gain. This is not true at all. I’ve seen students worry when they are not sore after a session. Just because muscles aren’t sore doesn’t mean they haven’t been worked.
Do you have one piece of advice for students who want to improve but don't know where to start? Ask questions - everyone is here to help.
Can you tell us a little about your playing experience and the coaching you do outside school? I’ve played in Australia twice and India five times as an overseas player and I coach boy and girls on the Kent pathway.
What's your biggest sporting pet peeve? When someone asks who’s winning during a cricket match, because it’s impossible to know!