A strong opening quarter paved the way for St Xavier’s Primary School to take a 28-14 win in the final of the Anne Singleton Carnival last weekend.

The star-studded, local outfit downed cross-town rivals Gunnedah South Public School to claim the championship.

St Xavier’s coach Marryanne Perkins said player’s nerves were heightened with many playing in their first competition final.

The team strategy to “go out strong” in the first quarter worked a treat as St Xavier’s took a handy 12-0 lead going into the first break.

South School were quick to pick up the pieces, tightening their defence and matching their opposition for the rest of the game.

“The court-speed and representative experience of some of the St Xavier’s players was definitely their strength,” coach Perkins said. 

“Full credit goes to those players who took the leadership on court and drove the play.  

“Above all they are a gorgeous team who work well together and keep it positive at all times.

“I was very proud of all 10 players and thank all the teachers and supporters who came down to cheer them on.”

Perkins offered a special thanks to St Xavier’s netball co-ordinators, Mrs Emma Kirby and Mrs Fiona Hogeveen. 

Noreen Percy daughter of Anne Singleton congratulated all the players on their great game and fantastic sportsmanship before presenting the trophy to the St Xavier’s players.

Gunnedah Netball Association thanked all the players, coaches, parents and schools for their continued support of the tournament and hope it will continue to be a part of the school sporting calendar for years to come. 

Thanks also went to umpires Teena Sutcliffe and Michelle Tydd and game officials Margaret Stevens and Nerieda Ewington.

The teams on the day were Gunnedah South: Tneesha Milne, Sara Baker, Bridie Kemp, Matilda Betts, Savannah Cull, Chelsea Storey, Kira Mancer and Sophie Williams. St Xavier’s: McKenzie Jones, Paige Gainsford, Alice Gibbs, Grace McLean, Isabelle Shortis, Jade Jolliffe, Matilda King, Neave Duffy, Chloe Verdon and Chloe Perkins.

The St Xavier’s girls head to Sydney next week to contest the Catholic Primary School (CPS) Netball Championships.