Bounce...Smash...Spin! A Sporting Adventure at All Saints
Today, 10 excited children could hardly contain themselves as they climbed aboard the minibus, ready for a thrilling trip to All Saints Secondary School for a trampolining, badminton and table tennis extravaganza.
On arrival, the group was split into two, joining other children from Conifers and Bincombe. Spirits were high as they rotated between trampolining and badminton, eager to learn new skills and take on fresh challenges.
The trampolining session was led by fantastic young sports leaders from Years 9 and 10, who impressed everyone with their confidence and knowledge. They carefully demonstrated and taught a range of skills including straight jumps and how to stop safely, half turns and full turns, as well as tuck, pike and straddle jumps. Some children even progressed onto more advanced moves such as seat drops with a half twist, swivel hips, front drops and back drops.
The enthusiasm in the room was infectious and at one point Sophie Murray could not resist stepping onto the trampoline herself to show everyone else 'how it is done'. Her demonstration certainly raised a few smiles and inspired even more confidence among the group.
Meanwhile, the badminton group was just as busy developing their skills. The young leaders guided them through how to hold the racket correctly, how to perform a drop serve and the differences between backhand and forehand shots. They also practised returning a serve and learned where to position themselves on the court, quickly putting their new skills into action.
After swapping activities, everyone came back together for a lively and laughter filled game of pairs tag with a twist, using paper scissors stones to decide outcomes. It was a brilliant way to bring everyone together and keep the energy levels high.
The final part of the day saw the children working in small teams as they rotated around table tennis tables. Here, they practised grip, serving, aiming and returning a serve, along with developing both forehand and backhand shots. Of course, there was also time for a few friendly matches, with plenty of cheering and encouragement all round.
Throughout the day, the children were a credit to the school. Their behaviour was excellent, their attitudes were positive and their willingness to try new things was clear to see. The experience has even inspired some to think about continuing trampolining in the future.
A huge thank you goes to All Saints, Miss Dewey and the brilliant young sports leaders who made the day so enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved.
Tom
Trampolining, Table T and Badminton