Weston All Saints Primary School football team emerged triumphant at the Somerset Larger Primary Schools u-11 County Finals.
Left to right, back row: Mr Keates, Eddie, Theo, Max, Evan & Louie; front row: Woody, Maya, Zachary, Felix & Max
The team of nine boys and one girl now head into the South West regional finals to represent Somerset.
Hosted at Strode College, all 12 schools present earned their place in the county-wide contest by winning local tournaments. WASPS had beaten off stiff competition from 20 other schools in November to be the representative for Bath & North East Somerset.
In near-freezing temperatures, WASPS began in free-flowing form, winning the first game 4-1. Goals proved harder to find as the group stage progressed, however.
Their final position hinged on the last pool match, where a late winner secured a vital three points and a place in the final four.
A highly competitive 2-1 victory in the semi-final gave WASPS the opportunity to claim the title of best primary school team in Somerset and return home with another trophy.
In the final, the team set about dismantling a strong side from Selwood Academy with the same endeavour and team spirit that has made them so competitive this year. Another solid defensive display laid the foundation for a 2-0 victory and cries of delight greeted the final whistle.
“We know that we can play well as a team, but I was really shocked that we were able to win this competition,” said midfielder Theo, aged 10.
“Our teacher, Mr Keates, has inspired us to see what we can achieve together. We are all good friends and no one is greedy – we all work for each other.”
If the team were to triumph in further phases of the competition, the prospect of a national final played on the pitch at Wembley awaits. “That would be incredible, to walk out the tunnel and see the crowd,” said winger Max, 11. “But we are just focusing on the next tournament for now.”
Voted Player of the Final, Maya, 10, was the sole female in the final four teams. She said: “It is cool to be there playing for my school, and now we get to do it for Somerset too. I think anyone that likes to play sports should just go for it.”
Year 6 teacher and football coach Mr Keates said: “They are so deserving of this achievement – it has all been about their spirit and togetherness.”
