There was a chance to join the professionals, when the young finalists of a regional basketball tournament competed in front of thousands at the Vertu Motors Arena during the Newcastle Eagles versus London Lions game.
The Year 5 pupils from St Mary’s Catholic Primary in Forest Hall had made it through the qualifying stages of the North Tyneside Hoops4Health competition, to win the final, which took place during half time at the Eagles game on Friday 23 January.
“The tournament was a full-day event,” explained Tom Johnson, Year 5 Class Teacher at St Mary’s, which is part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust.
“They played seven group games, and the winners and runners up from each group played in a quarter final on the day.
“The quarter-final winners were invited to play before the Newcastle Eagles game as a semi final, and then winners of the semi finals played the final at half time during the game. This was played on the court in front of the crowd of around 4,000 people.”
St Mary’s narrowly defeated Wellfield Middle School 2-0 in their semi-final game, before triumphing over Marden Bridge Middle School 6-4 in the closing seconds of the final.
“We were 4-0 down with two minutes left to go,” continued Mr Johnson.
“They managed to score two four-points to tie the game with 30 seconds left, then they stole the ball and managed to score the winning points with 10 seconds left to win 6-4.”
It was the first time that St Mary’s had taken part in the annual tournament, making the team’s victory all the more impressive.
“It was a great day out playing basketball,” added Mr Johnson.
“Many children had not played competitive basketball before.
“The finals were a fantastic experience. Playing in front of the crowd, on the full court, was an experience they’ll never forget. It was great that so many of their friends and family were able to attend and support the team.”
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