NETBALLERS from Upper Wharfedale School are celebrating following their fifth netball tour - and being named 'team of the tournament'.

Three teams from the Threshfield school played other schools from around the country in a tough tournament, which also included some gruelling weather.

Each team played well and won a number of their matches. However the school was chosen as the umpires and professionals ‘team of the tournament’ for fair play, excellent conduct, showing respect and determination.

As winners of this award they met England player and former Yorkshire Jets wing defender Bea Skingsley who presented the girls with a signed match ball and award.

She also took time to speak to the girls about her own net balling career, including playing currently with Manchester Thunder, and about the skills and attributes needed in professional sport.

Head of School Sally Sumner

“The umpires and organisers recognised what we are privileged to see on a daily basis, that the students are not only 'well behaved' but determined, encouraging of others and able to show resilience when faced with loss. Our girls congratulated every single team who beat them and when victorious themselves did so with grace and courtesy. This, to me, is the 'beating heart' of our school and words cannot express how proud I am of the girls. Meeting the England player Bea Skingsley and being presented with the signed netball and award was a fantastic inspiration for the teams. We are looking forward to our 6th tour in 2019 already."