Plymouth College Sports News

Plymouth College Sports News Recent sports news from Plymouth College http://www.plymouthcollege.com Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:01:42 GMT Umbraco CMS en Hot on the heels of Ruta Meilutyte, 14, meeting the Olympic ‘A’ qualifying time for the Lithuanian Swimming team, two more athletes from the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme have been selected to compete in London 2012.Two more swimmers make Olympic teamsHot on the heels of Ruta Meilutyte, 14, meeting the Olympic ‘A’ qualifying time for the Lithuanian Swimming team, two more athletes from the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme have been selected to compete in London 2012.Two more swimmers make Olympic teams04043 Hot on the heels of Ruta Meilutyte, 14, meeting the Olympic 'A' qualifying time for the Lithuanian Swimming team, two more athletes from the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme have been selected to compete in London 2012. Jamila Lunkuse, 15, (right) will swim for Uganda.  Last year the talented swimmer brought home two gold and three silver medals for Uganda in the CANA Zone 3&4 Swimming Championships.  Competing in Botswana against eleven African nations, Jamila triumphed in both the 50m and 100m breaststroke, and came second in the 50m butterfly, 50m freestyle and 100m freestyle.  The Year 10 pupil, who boards in the specialist swimming house at Plymouth College, previously represented her country in the Commonwealth Games in Delhi and the World Swimming Championships (25m) in Dubai. Jade Howard, 16, (below) has been selected for the Zambian swimming team. Jade is no stranger to international competition, having competed for her nation at world level on several occasions. Jade is a day pupil at Plymouth College and currently studying for her AS Levels alongside her swimming training programme. "I am absolutely delighted that the girls will be competing in London 2012", said Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd.  "They put in many, many hours of training and make a lot of sacrifices.  To compete for their country at the biggest sporting event in the world is the ultimate reward. "We have yet more swimmers who have chances of selection to national teams, including Great Britain, and we have our fingers' crossed that it's good news for them too. But to already boast three Olympians six months before the Games even begin is extremely exciting for any school and Plymouth College and Plymouth Leander are rightly proud of them."  <img src="/media/85391/jade-howard.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="Jade Howard"/> Plymouth College hockey player, Ella Ellis, 12, has been selected for the U14 Devon Junior Academy Centre (JAC) Hockey Squad.Devon squad for hockey playerPlymouth College hockey player, Ella Ellis, 12, has been selected for the U14 Devon Junior Academy Centre (JAC) Hockey Squad.Devon squad for hockey player04034 Plymouth College hockey player, Ella Ellis, 12, has been selected for the U14 Devon Junior Academy Centre (JAC) Hockey Squad. Ella was assessed over a number of sessions at the Junior Development Centre (JDC) before being picked to attend county trials.  Over the next couple of months she will attend regular training sessions in Exeter and hopes to be one of 16 chosen to play at the West JAC Tournament in the Spring. A member of the Plymouth College U12 team, Ella has played hockey since she was at junior school and has been a member of Plymouth Hockey Club for nearly two years. "I love playing hockey and I'm really pleased to have made the JAC squad", said Ella.  "Hopefully I will continue to play well as it would be great to get chosen for the tournament." Plymouth College elite swimmer, Ruta Meilutyte, 14, is awaiting official confirmation that she has booked her place at this summer’s Olympic Games in London after putting in an outstanding performance at the International Meeting D’Hiver FFN in France.Swimmer meets Olympic qualifying timePlymouth College elite swimmer, Ruta Meilutyte, 14, is awaiting official confirmation that she has booked her place at this summer’s Olympic Games in London after putting in an outstanding performance at the International Meeting D’Hiver FFN in France.Swimmer meets Olympic qualifying time04022 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Ruta Meilutyte, 14, is awaiting official confirmation that she has booked her place at this summer's Olympic Games in London after putting in an outstanding performance at the International Meeting D'Hiver FFN in France. The Lithuanian swimmer met the Olympic A qualification time for the 100m Breaststroke in a time of 1:07.72, the second fastest time by any female so far this year and a new Lithuanian National Senior Record. "Ruta is an incredible swimmer, made all the more impressive by her young age", said Plymouth College director of swimming, Jon Rudd.  "The Lithuanian National Olympic Committee and the Lithuanian Swimming Federation have previously told us that achieving the qualification time will guarantee her place on their team for London 2012 and so we await their official notification with great anticipation." "I met the qualifying time last year but it wasn't at a recognised event", said Ruta.  "I wasn't expecting to swim this fast in France because of where I'm at in my training so I'm absolutely delighted, particularly as this was an Olympic qualifying meet.  "To represent my country at the biggest sporting event in the world will be such a great honour.  I will put 100% into my training and swim the best I possibly can." Ruta is part of Plymouth College's elite swimming programme, run in partnership with leading swimming club, Plymouth Leander.  As well as the top youth swimmers from the UK, the programme also attracts national and international swimmers from around the world. Plymouth College 1st XV captain, Charlie Attis, 18, has moved a step closer to his England dream after being selected to the U18 South West rugby squad.South West squad for CharliePlymouth College 1st XV captain, Charlie Attis, 18, has moved a step closer to his England dream after being selected to the U18 South West rugby squad.South West squad for Charlie03980 Plymouth College 1st XV captain, Charlie Attis, 18, has moved a step closer to his England dream after being selected to the U18 South West rugby squad.  A veteran of U15, U16 and U18 Devon teams, the U16 South West team and Devonport Services' senior team, Charlie took part in a tough day-long trial, which saw about 40 top players from across the South West put through their paces.  Involving a variety of skills training and a match, Charlie was one of 25 to be invited to go forwards to a South West training camp in Bristol in three weeks time.  This will be followed by a tournament against other English regions at half term where England selectors will start to assess players for the U18 national squad.  "Charlie's game is going from strength to strength", said Plymouth College Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards.  "He is a hard-working and dedicated team player and I have high hopes that he will follow in the footsteps of former Plymouth College pupil and England U20 star, Henry Slade". Plymouth College’s inaugural Junior Rugby Dinner, attended by more than 130 pupils, parents and staff, was a huge success. Inaugural rugby dinner attended by Albion playersPlymouth College’s inaugural Junior Rugby Dinner, attended by more than 130 pupils, parents and staff, was a huge success. Inaugural rugby dinner attended by Albion players0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157628429038729" /> Plymouth College's inaugural Junior Rugby Dinner, attended by more than 130 pupils, parents and staff, was a huge success. After a splendid dinner of chilli and chocolate fudge cake, the Awards were presented by Aaron Carpenter, Plymouth Albion and Canadian World Cup Number 8, assisted by Plymouth College's under 13s coach and Albion player, Ruari Cushion. The school's junior rugby sides have had a superb season with the under 13s crowned West Devon Champions and under 14s West Devon Runners Up.  The under 15s have improved significantly and have won six of their matches. Head of Rugby Richard Edwards said: "It was a fantastic evening. The support for the event was very encouraging and it clearly has a place in the Plymouth College calendar in the future." Plymouth College pupils, Emily Ackford and Poppy Tank, have clinched first and second place in the Devon County Cross Country Championships. Gold and silver for runners in Devon ChampionshipsPlymouth College pupils, Emily Ackford and Poppy Tank, have clinched first and second place in the Devon County Cross Country Championships. Gold and silver for runners in Devon Championships03987 Plymouth College pupils, Emily Ackford and Poppy Tank, have clinched first and second place in the Devon County Cross Country Championships.  Both girls ran in the U15 race over a 4km challenging course.  Emily finished in a time of 14.25 to take the Devon Champion title while Poppy was 8 seconds behind in the runners-up spot.  The girls also won a team gold and will represent Devon in the South West Inter-counties Cross Country in January.  They will then take part in the National Inter-counties Championships in Birmingham in March. In the final game of the regular season, Plymouth College defeated a big and successful Taunton side at Delgany Fields. Plymouth College 1st XV victorious in final game of season In the final game of the regular season, Plymouth College defeated a big and successful Taunton side at Delgany Fields. Plymouth College 1st XV victorious in final game of season 03980 In the final game of the regular season, Plymouth College defeated a big and successful Taunton side at Delgany Fields. In difficult conditions both sides did well to play positive and entertaining rugby. It was, however, Plymouth who started brighter, dominating territory and the ball in the first fifteen minutes. Their early pressure led to penalty opportunities, duly taken by Charles Attis to give the home side a six point lead. Taunton fought back strongly and only desperate defence and a deliberate knock on prevented a try-scoring reply from the visitors. A yellow card for Plymouth, who were rather fortunate not to concede a penalty try. Plymouth regained control after the break with their forwards achieving parity at set piece and upsetting Taunton's ability to hold on to the ball. With their own possession they took advantage and a 40 metre plus drop goal from Charles Attis was followed up by a try from lively scrum half Tom Jordan. Attis finished the day with a well made try of his own and a conversion to give him his own personal full house of try, conversion, drop goal and two penalties for a 16 point individual haul. Taunton's only points came from a penalty mid-way through the second half.  Final score Plymouth College 21 Taunton School 3. Although the score card appears comfortable,Tauntonwere rugged and physical opponents who perhaps deserved more from the game. In Charles Attis, however, Plymouth have a genuine game changer who has scored an impressive 39 points in his last two outings and can boast a kicking success of 13 from his last 14 attempts at the uprights. He will be featuring in the South West final trial at Under 18 level later in December and is strongly tipped to go far in the game. The season may be over, butPlymouthcan be optimistic about next season as many players will be returning including 7 regular forwards and 5 backs who have enjoyed significant experience at First XV level. Photograph: Charles Attis Plymouth College senior teams enjoyed a successful day at Plymouth Albion RFC where the First and Second XVs took on their West Buckland counterparts. Plymouth College beat West Buckland at AlbionPlymouth College senior teams enjoyed a successful day at Plymouth Albion RFC where the First and Second XVs took on their West Buckland counterparts. Plymouth College beat West Buckland at Albion03890 Plymouth College senior teams enjoyed a successful day at Plymouth Albion RFC where the First and Second XVs took on their West Buckland counterparts. The First XV put in an inspired display against dangerous opponents who were enjoying a good run of success, including a win over local rivals, Kelly College, the week before. Playing with energy, conviction and ambition, Plymouth exploited the large pitch to maximum advantage and ran in a total of nine tries. Charles Attis (captain) also chipped in with a perfect set of nine conversions and a total personal haul of 23 points. The platform was laid up front where a dominant scrum and well functioning line out ensured that the side enjoyed good primary possession, a commodity too often lacking this season. This allowed front foot attacks to be common place and the outside backs made the most of the quality possession. West Buckland had large sections of the game, but determination, good organisation and communication ensured that the home line was never breached.  Final score 63-0. In a physical encounter the Second XV came out deserved winners 21-0, a match that was far closer than the score suggested. Plymouth College play their final fixture this Saturday (3rd December) against Taunton School which looks likely to be an exciting encounter with both sides enjoying similar records this season. The Prep School 1st team recently played two very tough rugby matches against Stover School and Wellington School. Great wins for Prep 1st team against Stover and Wellington The Prep School 1st team recently played two very tough rugby matches against Stover School and Wellington School. Great wins for Prep 1st team against Stover and Wellington 0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157628244900365" /> The Prep School 1st team recently played two very tough rugby matches against Stover School and Wellington School. The boys played superbly in both games and came out victorious both times. In the Stover match, as usual, the forwards played superbly allowing for good ball to the backline who took any opportunity they got to score. Ben Charlton was the stand out player for the forwards, carrying the ball up with purpose and making good ground up the field. George Spencer and James Degg linked very well, George being the stand out player in the backs supported very well by Bertie Ratsey. Everyone played well and stepped up to the plate when they needed to. It was a great victory all round for the boys. The final score was 28 - 0. The game againstWellingtonwas a tough one. Playing in the wind and rain it was hard for the boys to focus and do what they do best.  They were very quiet and needed a bit of a talking to in order to get them going! Ben Charlton yet again led from the front and had an awesome game.  He got the boys motivated and back to playing their best. During the first half Plymouth used their size and physicality to get the better of Wellington. In the second half Wellington passed the ball a lot more and avoided contact. Bertie Ratsey was the stand out player this game.  He made several try-saving tackles and set a high standard for the rest of the team, congratulations to him. Our defence was tested and the boys showed good fight to hold off the continuousWellingtonattack. It was a superb match and the boys did very well to hold out for a great win. The final score was 21 - 19. The hockey fixture against Truro is always a good one as it is very competitive for both schools. Hockey teams put in a good performance against TruroThe hockey fixture against Truro is always a good one as it is very competitive for both schools. Hockey teams put in a good performance against Truro03969 The hockey fixture against Truro is always a good one as it is very competitive for both schools.   The 1st team must be commended for their best performance this season.  It all came together and Truro did not know what hit them! The pressure was constant, with their post being struck twice and even the cross bar. The final score was 3-1 to Plymouth College, but could have easily been more. The 2nds and U14s both drew in very close games and although they lost 2-0, the U13s put out a very spirited performance and played nice hockey. The U15s also lost but by their narrowest margin this season and Miss Tremaine was delighted with their overall performance. The U12s played a very entertaining and nail-biting game, showing skills beyond their years.  They led for most of the game but lost 4-5, a game in which a draw would have been a fairer score. A really pleasing weekend and the hockey staff felt that all teams played some of the best hockey this season. The Plymouth College swimming team has clinched seven out of twelve English Schools Swimming Association titles making it the top school in the country for the fifth year running.Plymouth College is top swimming school for a fifth timeThe Plymouth College swimming team has clinched seven out of twelve English Schools Swimming Association titles making it the top school in the country for the fifth year running.Plymouth College is top swimming school for a fifth time03966 The Plymouth College swimming team has clinched seven out of twelve English Schools Swimming Association titles making it the top school in the country for the fifth year running.  Held in Southampton, the school also broke three records bringing its national total to seven. Plymouth College came out on top in the Junior Boys' Freestyle Relay, Intermediate Girls' Freestyle Relay (new record), Intermediate Girls' Medley Relay, Senior Girls' Freestyle Relay (new record), Senior Girls' Medley Relay (new record), Senior Boys' Freestyle Relay and Senior Boys' Medley Relay.  The Intermediate Boys were not far off the top spot, taking second place in both the Freestyle and Medley Relays.  The remaining titles were picked up by Millfield School (three titles) and Guilford High School (two titles). "I am delighted that Plymouth College continues to be the top school in the country for swimming", said Clive Hambly, teacher in charge of swimming at Plymouth College.  "There were many fine individual performances from our swimmers and a number of personal bests were broken." The team's success comes on the back of being Commended in the Telegraph/Aviva School Sport Matters Awards and the winners of School Sport Magazine's Girls' Team of the Year. Plymouth College Preparatory School had a very successful afternoon at the Mount House under 9 rugby tournament last week.U9 rugby team win Mount House tournamentPlymouth College Preparatory School had a very successful afternoon at the Mount House under 9 rugby tournament last week.U9 rugby team win Mount House tournament0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157628094683667" /> Plymouth College Preparatory School had a very successful afternoon at the Mount House under 9 rugby tournament last week. Teams from Blundell's, Truro, Stover, St Peter's Lympstone, Mount House, Plymouth College and St Michael's Tawstock took part. Plymouth College won all their group matches beating Truro 5-0, Blundell's 15-5 and Stover 15-5. They went into the semi finals where they beat St Peter's 10-5 in a very hard fought game. The final was against Blundell's, who Plymouth had already beaten in the group matches.  With fatigue creeping in for both sides, the boys managed to put on a fantastic performance. Blundell's scored first but Plymouth came back to go over three times. Blundell's scored their second try in the last move of the game but Plymouth won with a final score of 15-10. Prep School rugby coach, Chris Cottrell, said: "I have been coaching junior rugby for many years and these boys have put together some of the best rugby I have seen for some time. Their tackling was ferocious and they worked superbly in their support play." The hockey pitch has been a hive of activity so far this term with teams across all age groups securing some impressive wins.Hockey teams notch up a number of winsThe hockey pitch has been a hive of activity so far this term with teams across all age groups securing some impressive wins.Hockey teams notch up a number of wins0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157628026170077" /> The hockey pitch has been a hive of activity so far this term with teams across all age groups securing some impressive wins. The 1sts (3-0), U16s (3-1) and U14s (2-1) all beat Kelly College in rounds of the Devon Cup - the 1sts went on to beat them for a second time (1-0) in a routine fixture.  The U14s also beat Shebbear (5-0) as did the 2nd team (who beat their 1st team 1-0!), U13s (2-1) and U12s (7-0).  The U13s and U12s went on to beat Stover (both 3-0) and Ivybridge (combined age group 6-0). Bizzie Dinnis, Hannah Fullalove, Poppy Tank and Tommy Eyston are all through to the final Devon trials from West Devon.  Ana Hampson, Leanne Moore and Chloe Parford are all going for Devon trials. The scene was set. Plymouth College U13s had crushed Kingsley (76-0), Plymstock (41-0), Eggbuckland (36-0) and St Boniface (25-14) in the early stages of the 2011 West Devon Cup. Plymouth College U13s clinch West Devon titleThe scene was set. Plymouth College U13s had crushed Kingsley (76-0), Plymstock (41-0), Eggbuckland (36-0) and St Boniface (25-14) in the early stages of the 2011 West Devon Cup. Plymouth College U13s clinch West Devon title03944 The scene was set. Plymouth College U13s had crushed Kingsley (76-0), Plymstock (41-0), Eggbuckland (36-0) and St Boniface (25-14) in the early stages of the 2011 West Devon Cup. They lost to Ivybridge (19-34) in a tough home fixture and tripped up against TavistockCollege(19-22) leading to tortuous mathematical calculations by the event organisers. The call came late on Monday that the final would be between Ivybridge and… PlymouthCollegeat Plymouth Albion's ground on Tuesday 15th November. On a cold and windy evening, a resolute squad of 18 Plymouth College Year 8s focused on the match of their lives. Starting as underdogs following their earlier defeat to Ivybridge, the boys had everything to prove. The match was set alight with an early try as the ball flowed through the hands leaving a gap in the Ivybridge defence. However, the conversion was missed leaving the scoreline tight.  Strong rucking and passionate, determined defence meant that every moment of inspiration and every error threatened the result. When a gap eventually opened in the Plymouth defence, Ivybridge pounced and entered half-time 7-5 up. The Plymouth boys gave themselves a massive talking to and with eyes tearful with emotion they threw everything into the second half. The fan club pitch side suffered every tackle and contact with the boys as every refereeing decision became critical. Then, with fantastic rucking and quick hands, space opened up on the far side leading to a score under the posts. Ivybridge threatened the Plymouth line as the clock counted down but then the final whistle came and the Plymouth College U13s were crowned West Devon Cup Champions with a final score of 12-7. On reflection, it was a wonderful game, just nail-bitingly difficult to be part of for both players and spectators!!! All the training, injuries, highs and lows had been worth it - the outburst of emotion at the end showed that. Well done boys! Plymouth College’s swimming team has been Commended in the Team of the Year category at the Aviva and Daily Telegraph School Sport Matters Awards, held at Twickenham Stadium. Swimming team Commended in national awardsPlymouth College’s swimming team has been Commended in the Team of the Year category at the Aviva and Daily Telegraph School Sport Matters Awards, held at Twickenham Stadium. Swimming team Commended in national awards03935 Plymouth College's swimming team has been Commended in the Team of the Year category at the Aviva and Daily Telegraph School Sport Matters Awards, held at Twickenham Stadium.  The swimmers were nominated after another highly successful year in the pool. School Sport Matters is a campaign initiated by The Daily Telegraph six years ago, with Aviva as a sponsorship partner, to celebrate everything that is exemplary in school sport and physical education. The newspaper received hundreds of nominations from schools around the country for this year's awards and luminaries from British sport were there in force to present the awards, hosted by former Olympic medal winners Sally Gunnell and Iwan Thomas. The Team of the Year category was presented by former Arsenal and England footballer turned pundit, Lee Dixon, and Keith Perry, TMG Group Managing Editor (Sport) Earlier this year Plymouth College cemented its position as the nation's leading swimming school when the team came out on top in the English Schools Swimming Association relays for a fourth consecutive year.  The team won six of the twelve national titles and currently holds six of the twelve national records. Also this year, three swimmers swam for England in the WISE Home Schools International and another won a gold medal at the World Youth Olympics in Singapore. The school had swimmers representing Great Britain in the European Junior Championships, the European Youth Olympic Festival and the World Junior Championships. As well as England, Ireland and Wales, Plymouth College boasts elite swimmers from 15 different nations. Between them they hold over 50 senior and junior national records.  Plymouth College's Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said: "I am delighted that the team was Commended at these prestigious award.  The swimmers are really dedicated and passionate about their sport, getting up at 5 a.m. every day to be coached, putting many hours into their training both before and after school.  We work hard to nurture and support them in the classroom as well as the pool and I believe that we are the only swimming programme in the country to have a dedicated school-based boarding house." Photograph: Lee Dixon, Joe Patching, Jon Rudd, Laura Vertigans, Keith Perry. Plymouth College’s rugby teams achieved victories across the board over Kelly College last Saturday.Clean sweep for Plymouth College against Kelly CollegePlymouth College’s rugby teams achieved victories across the board over Kelly College last Saturday.Clean sweep for Plymouth College against Kelly College0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157627950821961" /> Plymouth College's rugby teams achieved victories across the board over Kelly College last Saturday. The First XV won 34-0, their sixth straight win against their Tavistock rivals. Six tries were scored in all, two for Ellery Jones and one each for Jamie Johnson, Tom Turner, Declan Reed and Ollie Clenaghan. Two conversions were added by Charles Attis. The Seconds secured a hard fought 12-0 victory with the Under 15s also edging their opponents with a 24-19 triumph. The U15s started brightly, but Kelly opened the scoring. Plymouth got a real confidence booster when Paul Habib scored the first of his tries. With Pete Sumner and Paul Hamber prominent, Plymouth competed well against a physically bigger Kelly side and the backs tackled everything that moved. Defensive lapses however saw Kelly retake the lead but Plymouth fought back. Well into the second half Peter Lui-Brown scored the try that eventually made the difference and Gerrard converted from in front of the posts. The junior sides were more comfortable achieving a 31-10 victory at U14 and 55-0 at U13.  Led by the determined Tom Brooker, the U13 team got off to a strong start with the ball flowing through the backs ending with a try by Man of the Match Thom Leman, converted by Harry Mason. This theme continued as passes were timed to perfection, tackles were broken and rucking was tough and effective. Toby Farley and Jason Blake turned the ball over time and again as John Alao and Harry Mason ran in the tries. In a free-scoring extravaganza, the U12s prevailed 50-38. All the matches were enjoyed by good support and the unseasonal sunshine allowed for exciting and free flowing rugby to be the order of the day.  Plymouth College Preparatory School’s first team played their second match of the season against Blundell’s Prep. Prep 1st rugby team beat Blundell’sPlymouth College Preparatory School’s first team played their second match of the season against Blundell’s Prep. Prep 1st rugby team beat Blundell’s0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157628044986062" /> Plymouth College Preparatory School's first team played their second match of the season against Blundell's Prep. Having been beaten heavily for the last couple of years there was nervousness in the team to start off with. For the first quarter of the match it was a bruising affair with the score 14-12 to Plymouth. The forwards then began to dominate the game. The front row of Sam Sair, Alex Smith, and Tommy Trathen were ably supported by Ben Chalton and Henry Burrows in the second row. Plymouth won most of the set scrums and line outs, starving the Blundell's backs of possession. The Plymouth tries were all scored by good strong forward work - Ben Chalton 3 and Alex Smith 1, with George Spencer making 4 conversions. All the team kept their discipline and deserved to come out winners 28-12. Plymouth College under 15s have secured another good result by beating a spirited St Boniface College in the West Devon Cup.Plymouth College U15s through to next round of West Devon CupPlymouth College under 15s have secured another good result by beating a spirited St Boniface College in the West Devon Cup.Plymouth College U15s through to next round of West Devon Cup0 <?UMBRACO_MACRO slideshow="1" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" thumbnailwidth="350" photosetid="72157627918857819" /> Plymouth College under 15s have secured another good result by beating a spirited St Boniface College in the West Devon Cup. For the first 10 minutes Plymouth College played some excellent rugby - scrummaged, rucked and mauled well - and played with confidence and went through their phases. From an attack on the left hand side of the pitch, quick hands led to Tom Bedford scoring with almost his first touch just to the right of the posts. Simple, good rugby in what were difficult wet and blustery conditions. Unfortunately Tom Dinnis missed the conversion! St Boniface then came back and just before half time scored a try and a superb conversion made it 7-5 at half time to St Boniface. Against the wind in the second half Plymouth College made it difficult for themselves before Tom Dinnis intercepted a pass when St Boniface were trying to force the game and scored under the posts. He kicked the conversion this time! Shortly afterwards, with renewed confidence and after a great move started by Sashin Gurung's mazy run followed by quick hands again, Paul Habib finished off by scoring in the top corner. Against the elements, Tom Dinnis missed the conversion from the touchline. As hard as St Boniface pressed, Plymouth College's defence held good and as it became increasingly dark the final whistle arrived Plymouth College running out winners 7-17. Plymouth College’s swimming team has been short-listed for Team of the Year in the Aviva and Daily Telegraph School Sport Matters Awards. Swimming team short-listed for national awardPlymouth College’s swimming team has been short-listed for Team of the Year in the Aviva and Daily Telegraph School Sport Matters Awards. Swimming team short-listed for national award03895 Plymouth College's swimming team has been short-listed for Team of the Year in the Aviva and Daily Telegraph School Sport Matters Awards.  The swimmers were nominated after another highly successful year in the pool. Earlier this year the school cemented its position as the nation's leading swimming school when the team came out on top in the English Schools Swimming Association relays for a fourth consecutive year.  The team won six of the twelve national titles and currently holds six of the twelve national records. Also this year, three swimmers swam for England in the WISE Home Schools International and another won a gold medal at the World Youth Olympics in Singapore. The school had swimmers representing Great Britain in the European Junior Championships, the European Youth Olympic Festival and the World Junior Championships. As well as England, Ireland and Wales, Plymouth College boasts elite swimmers from 15 different nations. Between them they hold over 50 senior and junior national records.  Plymouth College's Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said: "I am delighted that the team has been short-listed for such a prestigious award.  The swimmers are really dedicated and passionate about their sport, getting up at 5 a.m. every day to be coached, putting many hours into their training both before and after school.  We work hard to nurture and support them in the classroom as well as the pool and I believe that we are the only swimming programme in the country to have a dedicated school-based boarding house." The lunchtime awards ceremony is being held at Twickenham Stadium on 3 November.  It will be attended by a host of top sports personalities including Gail Emms, Perri Shakes-Drayton and Ugo Monye. Plymouth College 1st XV are on track to emulate the phenomenal success of the 2010 season, recording just one loss as they reach the half way point of the 2011 season.Cracking first half of season for 1st XVPlymouth College 1st XV are on track to emulate the phenomenal success of the 2010 season, recording just one loss as they reach the half way point of the 2011 season.Cracking first half of season for 1st XV03890 Plymouth College 1st XV are on track to emulate the phenomenal success of the 2010 season, recording just one loss as they reach the half way point of the 2011 season. The team have played seven matches with wins against QEH, King's Taunton, Truro, Shebbear (Devon Cup), Exeter School (Devon Cup) and Blundell's.  Their only loss was against Llandovery College, a specialist rugby school. Last year the team won the Devon Cup and reached the quarter finals of the Daily Mail Cup, where they suffered their only loss of the season to eventual winners and rugby heavy-weights, Whitgift School. This season the team is sponsored by Plymouth-based Pro Design, a subsidiary of Westcountry Paper. Plymouth College Sixth Former, Jess Cronk, has competed at the British Show Horse National Championships, held at Addington Manor, Buckinghamshire. National Championships for talented horse riderPlymouth College Sixth Former, Jess Cronk, has competed at the British Show Horse National Championships, held at Addington Manor, Buckinghamshire. National Championships for talented horse rider03883 Plymouth College Sixth Former, Jess Cronk, has competed at the British Show Horse National Championships, held at Addington Manor, Buckinghamshire. Jess qualified for the Classic Supreme Riding Horse Class after competing at a number of local BSH events.  Securing a top ten place, Jess, who was the youngest and only amateur rider in the class, was selected to ride in the evening performance. QEH was pencilled in as an early tough fixture which would test the U13 rugby team’s grit and determination to the core, and so it proved. Tough match ends in draw for U13sQEH was pencilled in as an early tough fixture which would test the U13 rugby team’s grit and determination to the core, and so it proved. Tough match ends in draw for U13s0 QEH was pencilled in as an early tough fixture which would test the U13 rugby team's grit and determination to the core, and so it proved. <?UMBRACO_MACRO thumbnailwidth="350" slideshow="1" photosetid="72157627718780284" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" /> Pleasing fluent play from the backs saw the ball go wide to explore the space while the forwards battled hard in the rucks and mauls. Brooker led by example with disciplined aggression - an example that more forwards need to follow. Scrums were strong, lineouts problematic, but two tries when the ball passed through most of the team showed the potential of a full team effort. Tom Leman attacked effectively from full-back, earning a Merit for his efforts while Alex Williams wrestled fiercely in mauls, tackled hard in defence and kept the ball flowing in attack to deserve his Merit. Despite too much ball lost on contact, not least as an attack was snuffled out on the opposition 5m line with a minute to go, the team can take great heart from the commitment of the whole squad under the positive, encouraging leadership of their captain. Perhaps there is an element of regret for a lost win, but there is now genuine competition for places and a real enthusiasm for the season. Training must be tough but hopes are high. Final score: Plymouth College 12 QEH 12 Plymouth College fencer, Katie Davies-Gregory, 16, has won a bronze medal in the UK School Games, where she was competing for Wales. Bronze for Katie in UK School GamesPlymouth College fencer, Katie Davies-Gregory, 16, has won a bronze medal in the UK School Games, where she was competing for Wales. Bronze for Katie in UK School Games03851 Plymouth College fencer, Katie Davies-Gregory, 16, has won a bronze medal in the UK School Games, where she was competing for Wales.  The Welsh team came third in the women's epee team event. Held in Sheffield, the Games replicate a major adult multi-sport competition with an opening and closing ceremony and an athletes' village.  Other sports include athletics, badminton, gymnastics, hockey, judo, swimming, table tennis, track cycling and volleyball. In the individual competition, Katie was seeded third after the knockout stages, where she beat 2010 world finalist and current British champion, Amy Radford.  Katie finished ninth overall in the competition that involved the top young athletes from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. A boarder at Plymouth College, Katie gained 11 GCSEs this summer (including 5 As) and has just started studying A levels in Chemistry, Biology, Economics and Business Studies and History. Plymouth College U15s, under new captain Damon Ackerman, started their 2011 season at home, with a resounding victory against Kingsley School, North Devon. Plymouth College beat Kingsley in first match of seasonPlymouth College U15s, under new captain Damon Ackerman, started their 2011 season at home, with a resounding victory against Kingsley School, North Devon. Plymouth College beat Kingsley in first match of season0 Plymouth College U15s, under new captain Damon Ackerman, started their 2011 season at home, with a resounding victory against Kingsley School, North Devon. <?UMBRACO_MACRO thumbnailwidth="350" slideshow="1" photosetid="72157627558944471" macroAlias="FlickrPhotoset" /> Straight from the kick off College attacked and powerful running from the forwards with Peter Sumner and Paul Hamber dominant set up an early score. From the restart College went straight back and Ackerman and his backs, Sashin Gurung, Paul Habib and new boy Peter Lui-Brown combined for a second score, converted by Jon Gerrard. The scores continued which enabled whole sale second half changes, giving every member of the College squad a chance. Kingsley fought back but relentless College pressure eventually paid off and there were more tries from Sumner, Ackerman and Hamber. The final move of the match, a penalty under the posts saw scrum half Dom Mulberry scamper over for a try converted by Ackerman. Final score: Plymouth College 76 Kingsley School 0.   Pierce Widdecombe, 11, has had a successful season playing for the U11 Devon Cricket Team. Devon Cricket team for PiercePierce Widdecombe, 11, has had a successful season playing for the U11 Devon Cricket Team. Devon Cricket team for Pierce03844 Pierce Widdecombe, 11, has had a successful season playing for the U11 Devon Cricket Team. Highlights of the season were being 77 not out against Cornwall and winning the Taunton Festival.  Pierce played in all but two county matches and he only missed those because he broke his finger! Pierce is also a rising tennis star, ranked in the top 20 in the county in the U12 age group.  He reached the singles quarter finals of the Newquay Open and the boys doubles quarter finals of the Penzance Open. He has just moved from the Prep School to Year 7 of the Senior School, where he is looking forward to continuing his sporting activities. With day one of the tour at Bryanston, The Leopards from Cape Town was the first tour T20 match. 1st XI Cricket TourWith day one of the tour at Bryanston, The Leopards from Cape Town was the first tour T20 match. 1st XI Cricket Tour03764 With day one of the tour at Bryanston, The Leopards from Cape Town was the first tour T20 match.  The College took a wicket in the first over when a great throw and direct hit by Pavi, fielding in the covers, ran out one of their openers. Henry Bennett bowled the other opener in his first over and then Matt Kidd took a wicket too. The Leopards' were 3 wickets down in the third over and only had 11 on the board. They have a mini recovery then in the 8th over Pasi took the first of his 2 wickets. Pavi's took 2 wickets and Will Chapman and Chris Head one a piece. The Leopards who clearly had not played much T20 were all out for 83 in the last over. 84 should be no major problem but good bowling by The Leopards and perhaps over confidence crept in and the College, after the 3rd over with the score on 19, lost regular wickets and the pressure mounted. George Stephenson and Matt Kidd steadied the ship before Kidd was out in the 8th over, Callum Cload's wretched luck continued and then Pavi and George put on another 19. They both got out, as did Alex Hill, leaving Will Dickinson supported by Will Chapman to smash the winning runs. The College won by 3 wickets in the 14th over. The second T20 match was against Bryanston - the College's third meeting with them this season. Ben Ladd scored 57 to give them the base for a reasonable score 133-8 off their 20 overs. With injuries mounting, George Stephenson took 2 wickets as did Henry Bennett and Pavi. The fielding was good but not quite as good. After a few words, normality resumed to the batting. Henry Bennett and Pasi put on 60 in 10 overs before Bennett was well caught, Pasi and Matt Kidd scored 68 before Pasi was run out. Kidd finished 45 not out and George Stephenson 5 no, the College winning in the last over. A well paced chase.  After the first of our three BBQs in 24 hours it was off to Devine House and Clayesmore. Day 2 Clayesmore. Nets and a warm up, there are a few injuries and tiredness after a late night. Clayesmore have indicated that they are not strong and so we bat in the first of our two declaration tour games. The players decide to change the batting order, never a good idea and on a slow low wicket on which the ball has to be watched, played forward and straight, some players' technique is found wanting. The first two wickets are LBWs then Matt Kidd plays at a wide one and is caught behind and Henry Bennett is bowled. 100 - 4 off 21 overs. Alex Hill, at last finding some touch is then out with the score on 106 and Pavi doesn't bat to orders and follows shortly. All the time George Stephenson bats very sensibly, watchful and accumulating runs and with Pasi's help they take the score to 222 off 44 overs when Nelson strikes. During their 117 partnership George completes his 50 as does Pasi who is then out for 56.  George Stephenson completes his second fifty to end up 100 not out, with Will Dickinson looking on, in 17 balls and Alex Hill declares in the 47th over with the score on 277-7. It was a super knock; very mature and typical of George. 277 very challenging if the College bowl well. The first few overs are not particularly eventful.  The score is 25-2 with Chris Head having taken the wickets. Leg side then off side wides follow and then a straight one and Chris gets a wicket and more wickets. Alex rings the changes. Alex Meredith has no luck but the introduction of Pavi and Henry speeds up Clayesmore's decline as they bowl really well in tamden. Pavi finishes with figures of 6-5-4-4 and Henry 5-2-1-11. However the star man who did the initial damage was the Iceman, with the cool figures of 10-1-5-32, his best bowling figures for the school. The College won by 200 runs. Day 3 at Queens Taunton. Merrick Steward ties Henry down and eventually bowls him, and Matt Kidd miss-times a shot and is caught. 31-2 off 13 overs. George Stephenson the batter of the day before is then LBW on the back leg to Queens' leg arm spinner who bowls 20 overs, and he also bowls Will Chapman's and ends his patient innings. Alex Hill however looks assured and assisted by others scores an excellent 69 to give the College the basis of a decent score on this type of pitch. At lunch, most welcome in the pavilion the in demand Alex Hill nips off to have a telephone interview with the BBC. So 183 off 58.1 overs, slow by the College's standards but there was some grafting for a change and it is a difficult pitch. With bowlers injured and Alex Meredith losing his shoes, Chris Head opens with Pasi who struggles again with his back. Fourth ball Chris gets Lintott to skew a pull and Luke Dickinson takes a good catch over his shoulder at mid on. A good wicket and everyone is elated. Will Steward bats aggressively, too so on this pitch, and he takes another Head short ball on and pulls it to deep square leg where George takes a great diving catch very low down in his finger tips. Soon Bennett and Pavi are introduced and Henry probably bowls one of his best spells for the College as does Pavi.  In 23 overs they take 8 wickets, 4 each and bowl 13 maidens for 31 runs and Queens innings expires on 79. A fantastic performance and a brilliant end to a fabulous tour; The College won the intense match by 79 runs. It was meant to be a sweltering day and so it turned out to be! Alex Hill lost the toss again and the OPMs put the school into bat. Plymouth College 1st XI v OPMs It was meant to be a sweltering day and so it turned out to be! Alex Hill lost the toss again and the OPMs put the school into bat. Plymouth College 1st XI v OPMs 03765 It was meant to be a sweltering day and so it turned out to be! Alex Hill lost the toss again and the OPMs put the school into bat. The bowling was rather friendly and the College got off to a flier. In the 7th over Pasi miss-timed a shot, as the wicket was a little slow and low, although not an irregular bounce and was caught. 52-1. George Stephenson fresh from his two hundreds in a week, 100 not out against Clayesmore and on Friday night in the T20 for Plymouth, joined Henry and they put on 71 in 9 overs, 123-2 when Henry was adjudged LBW. Will Chapman and George put on 31 when, in the first ball after drinks in the 21st over, George charged Ben Spear missed the ball and was stumped. 154-3. It looked as if 300+ was on. Will Dickinson in his last match scored a quick fire 27 and Chapman was then out for 49. 225-4 off 30 overs. Alex Hill who found his form on Tour then set about the bowling and helped by Callum Cload, Pasi and then Ben Jackson accelerated the score. Hill quickly passed his fifty and with an over left he needed 27 for his hundred. He tried very hard to get to three figures but was left 1 run short, 99 not out! College 344-7 in 40 overs. There was concern because of the frivolity at the end of the innings and it turned out to be well placed as the initial bowling and erratic outfield bounce saw the OPMs off to an even better flier than the College. Jake Luffman punished anything wayward and after 5 overs OPMs had 51. Alex Hill turned to himself and then had Luffman well caught at deep fine leg by Alex Meredith. Enter another Luffman, Steve, called up late to make up the 12. Anything in his slot was thrashed and there was plenty of obliging deliveries, with Joe Marshall they put on 126 before Will Chapman had Marshall caught. James Frappell and Luffman then threatened to win the match but Pasi came on and because of his back bowled medium pace and straight. Luffman having hit the houses surrounding Ford Park on several occasions missed one and was bowled for 120. No ice bath available though! Pasi then went onto almost clean up the remainder of the OPMs single handed taking 6 wickets and at one stage was on a hat trick, whilst Alex Hill chipped in with another wicket. The OPMs finished on 305-9 from their 40 overs. The College won by 39 runs. A hot afternoon, the wicket looked like it has for the last two years, possibly going to fly off the ridge one end and keep lowish otherwise. Plymouth College 1st XI v Exeter SchoolA hot afternoon, the wicket looked like it has for the last two years, possibly going to fly off the ridge one end and keep lowish otherwise. Plymouth College 1st XI v Exeter School03766 A hot afternoon, the wicket looked like it has for the last two years, possibly going to fly off the ridge one end and keep lowish otherwise. Alex, as has often been the case, lost the toss and Exeter decided to bat. They got off to a relative flier 60 off 13 overs and then it all changed. First Henry and Pavi came on and unusually Pavi was not in the grove. So on came Will Chapman as Henry wanted to bowl from the other end and 4th ball LBW, second over LBW. Alex Hill replaced Henry and second over he took a wicket and then together Alex and Will with Henry chipping in at the end too, bowled out Exeter for 127. Will Chapman finishing with figures of 8-1-18-4 and Alex Hill 7-2-16-3 and that from a man with a sore back! Batting was not going to be easy, be brave, get forward block the straight one, wait for the bad ball and if it is in your arc then hit it. Will Chapman played back and was bowled in the 5th over but Pasi and Matt Kidd then put on a match winning 86 for the second wicket. Matt Kidd scored his long awaited first College half century including some big sixes before he was bowled for 63.  Henry Bennett almost saw the College home with Pasi but it was Callum Cload who actually did, with Pasi ending up 41 not out and the College winning by 7 wickets in the 22nd over. Plymouth College’s director of swimming, Jon Rudd, has been appointed head coach of the England swimming team for the Commonwealth Youth Games.England honour for director of swimmingPlymouth College’s director of swimming, Jon Rudd, has been appointed head coach of the England swimming team for the Commonwealth Youth Games.England honour for director of swimming03753 Plymouth College's director of swimming, Jon Rudd, has been appointed head coach of the England swimming team for the Commonwealth Youth Games.  The Games are being held in the Isle of Man in September. This is the third time Jon has led a national team in an international competition but the first time he has received selection for England - in 2007 he was head coach of Great Britain at the European Youth Olympics and for an end of season tour. Jon will be looking after a team of 14 athletes and will be joined at the Commonwealths by Plymouth College swimmer Laura Vertigans and former pupil Aaron Rickhuss.  Another Plymouth College swimmer, Grant Halsall, will represent Isle of Man. "I am really pleased to have been appointed head coach of the England team", said Jon.  "It is a huge honour to be asked to lead your country and the ultimate for any coach." Catherine Bishop and Alex Sells have clinched the girls and the boys U11 titles at the National IAPS Fencing Championships. Clean sweep for Prep fencersCatherine Bishop and Alex Sells have clinched the girls and the boys U11 titles at the National IAPS Fencing Championships. Clean sweep for Prep fencers03747 Catherine Bishop and Alex Sells have clinched the girls and the boys U11 titles at the National IAPS Fencing Championships.  Competing against some of the top young fencers in the country, Catherine and Alex successfully came through 15 fights each to secure victory. Held at Millfield School, fellow Prep pupils Alice Simmonds and Annie Crocker took 2nd and 3rd respectively in the girls' event.  All four pupils are part of the school's Modern Pentathlon Academy. Modern Pentathlete, Alice Rogers, will represent Great Britain for a third time in the Youth B European Championships in Hungary in July. Alice selected for European Pentathlon ChampionshipsModern Pentathlete, Alice Rogers, will represent Great Britain for a third time in the Youth B European Championships in Hungary in July. Alice selected for European Pentathlon Championships03740 Modern Pentathlete, Alice Rogers, will represent Great Britain for a third time in the Youth B European Championships in Hungary in July.  The talented multi-eventer secured one of five places after attending two fiercely-contested selection events.  If she puts in a strong individual performance in Hungary, Alice will have the chance of being one of three who will go forward to the team event. Alice has already represented Great Britain twice this year - the first time was at a Youth International event in Gloucester and the second, when she came away with a silver medal, was at the German Youth B Championships.  Sammy Cotton, 12, has seen six months of show jumping training and competing pay off with a win at the prestigious Royal Cornwall Show.Royal Cornwall Show success for SammySammy Cotton, 12, has seen six months of show jumping training and competing pay off with a win at the prestigious Royal Cornwall Show.Royal Cornwall Show success for Sammy03732 Sammy Cotton, 12, has seen six months of show jumping training and competing pay off with a win at the prestigious Royal Cornwall Show. The Plymouth College Year 7 pupil jumped a 1.2m track in the Show's only junior class, which saw her competing against a number of 16 year olds.  Riding two ponies, Sammy went clear on both into a jump-off against five other ponies.  Her first pony, Tilly, had two poles down after an early draw and came 7th.  However, her second pony, Rasher, had the only double clear round and won. In May, Sammy competed in her first county show, Bath & West, where she came 3rd and 4th in a big junior class.  In July she will compete in a 1.35m class at the Wales & West Show.  Her aim is to qualify for the Pony Show Jumper of the Year class at Horse of the Year Show. Hot on the heels of her double British fencing titles, Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Tia Simms-Lymn, 12, has won the Warwick U13 Epée Championships.More medals for TiaHot on the heels of her double British fencing titles, Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Tia Simms-Lymn, 12, has won the Warwick U13 Epée Championships.More medals for Tia03723 Hot on the heels of her double British fencing titles, Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Tia Simms-Lymn, 12, has won the Warwick U13 Epée Championships.  The competition is the biggest fencing event in the UK outside the British Championships. The talented multi-eventer also picked up a gold medal in the Devon Athletics Championships, where she set a new PB of 1.51.95 in the 600m.  A week later she claimed a bronze medal at the Devon Schools combined event. Starting with the British Fencing Championships, Tia competed four weekends in a row, securing a total of four gold medals and one bronze medal. Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Poppy Le Marechal, 18, from Ivybridge, has been selected for the Pony Club UK International Tetrathlon team. Great Britain selection for Plymouth College athletePlymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Poppy Le Marechal, 18, from Ivybridge, has been selected for the Pony Club UK International Tetrathlon team. Great Britain selection for Plymouth College athlete03717 Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Poppy Le Marechal, 18, from Ivybridge, has been selected for the Pony Club UK International Tetrathlon team.  She will compete for Great Britain against USA, Australia, Canada and Eire in the International and Irish National Tetrathlon Competition, a run, shoot, swim and ride event being held in Dublin this summer. Last year Poppy won a silver medal at the National Tetrathlon Championships and was part of the South West team that came second in the regional event.  A member of the Dartmoor Hunt Pony Club for ten years, the former area champion regularly competes for the Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon team. "I am honoured and thrilled to have been chosen to represent Great Britain in this sport", said Poppy.  "I am looking forward to a very exciting summer". Photograph: Poppy competing on Murphy's Shadow. Cricket coaching at Plymouth College has had a big boost this season with the introduction of a Kanon ball-feeding machine.Parents’ Association buy cricket machineCricket coaching at Plymouth College has had a big boost this season with the introduction of a Kanon ball-feeding machine.Parents’ Association buy cricket machine03713 Cricket coaching at Plymouth College has had a big boost this season with the introduction of a Kanon ball-feeding machine.  The training aid has been paid for by Plymouth College's Parents' Association.  "The Kanon has already been put to excellent use in our One2One winter coaching programme and games lessons, enabling young players to grove their cricket shots and improve their fielding and wicket keeping", said Plymouth College Head of Cricket, Jonathan Mears. "The hockey department has also seen the fun and benefits of using it in specialist goal-keeping workshops. We are very grateful to the Parents' Association for their very kind generosity". Parents Paul McEleny and Jo Mulberry officially handed over the machine to Jonathan Mears and 1st XI team member, Pasi Mawalage.   With the exam season started the 2011 1st XI had three debutants, Henry Slade, Ollie Wace and Charlie Attis, for their annual match against Devon’s oldest cricket club, Devon Dumplings. Plymouth College beat Devon DumplingsWith the exam season started the 2011 1st XI had three debutants, Henry Slade, Ollie Wace and Charlie Attis, for their annual match against Devon’s oldest cricket club, Devon Dumplings. Plymouth College beat Devon Dumplings03708 With the exam season started the 2011 1st XI had three debutants, Henry Slade, Ollie Wace and Charlie Attis, for their annual match against Devon's oldest cricket club, Devon Dumplings. Alex Hill most unusually won the toss and decided to bat. With the score on 15, Pasi Mawalage was out in the third over. Will Chapman and Matt Kidd then put on 68 in 7 overs, before Kidd played a number of superb shots including a straight drive. On 42, Kidd was adjudged LBW. Alex Hill then played on and Callum Cload was bowled first ball. What was a promising start faltered.  Pavi Mawalage, as he'd done on Saturday against Millfield, repaired the situation with Chapman, who reached his maiden half century before being caught for an excellent 61. Pavi then played on sweeping for 33 and Will Dickinson also played on. Henry Slade was run out backing up when Charlie Attis creamed, not quite, a ball back which hit the bowler and canned onto the stumps. Attis was caught on the boundary, going for glory. College all out 202 in 31 overs. With a number of injuries, Alex Hill opened the bowling with Chris Head.  Hill bowled Fragley in the first over. With the score on 23 he then bowled Exeter's overseas' player Ferrao before having to stop bowling due to a back strain.  This brought Will Chapman into the match, who has the knack of taking wickets, and he did not disappoint taking 3 wickets including old boy Steve Luffman, whilst Pavi Mawalage had Harry Kamdampully caught behind. A rear guard stand by McPherson against Slade, Wace and Attis, who took a wicket, all given a bowl for the 1st XI, was ended by Pasi Mawalage before veteran John Stanyer was bowled by Chapman. Plymouth College 202 all out. W Chapman 61. M Kidd 42. Pavi Mawalage 33. Devon Dumplings 180 all out. W Chapman 21-3. Plymouth College won by 22 runs. Plymouth College 1st X1 are being sponsored this season by Lang & Co Estate and Letting Agents.Lang & Co sponsor Plymouth College cricket teamPlymouth College 1st X1 are being sponsored this season by Lang & Co Estate and Letting Agents.Lang & Co sponsor Plymouth College cricket team03706 Plymouth College 1st X1 are being sponsored this season by Lang & Co Estate and Letting Agents. Jay Foster, director of the company based at Mannamead Road, Plymouth, presented the team kit to captain, Alex Hill. It has been a good start to the season for Plymouth College who have beaten MCC, Truro, Bryanston, Canford and Sherborne School as well as Devon Dumplings. The team narrowly lost to Millfield in the National Schools T20 Cup competition. Talented Plymouth College athlete, Harriet Mitchell, 12 from Liskeard, has helped the South West Tetrathlon team to win a silver medal at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.Harriet takes team silver at Royal Windsor Horse ShowTalented Plymouth College athlete, Harriet Mitchell, 12 from Liskeard, has helped the South West Tetrathlon team to win a silver medal at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.Harriet takes team silver at Royal Windsor Horse Show03700 Talented Plymouth College athlete, Harriet Mitchell, 12 from Liskeard, has helped the South West Tetrathlon team to win a silver medal at the Royal Windsor Horse Show. The prestigious show is the largest outdoor equestrian event in the UK, with over 3000 horses and ponies taking part in more than 250 jumping, showing, and  carriage driving classes. The event has been running for over 65 years and takes place in Her Majesty The Queen's private grounds at Windsor Castle. Harriet, who is a member of East Cornwall Hunt Pony Club, secured her place on the regional team after winning the 15/16 South West area Pony Club Tetrathlon winter league series.  A shoot, run, swim and ride event, Harriet did the show jumping part at Windsor on her pony, Master Juno. No stranger to multi-eventing success, Harriet was the 2010 runner up in her age group at the British Pentathlon Championships and is the current South East Pentathlon Champion. "It was amazing just to be there and compete", said Harriet.  "To win a silver medal was a huge bonus and I'm absolutely delighted." Plymouth College runner, Frankie Aldred, 12, who lives near Looe, has taken the U13 boys’ 1500m title at the Cornwall County Track and Field Championships.Cornish title for FrankiePlymouth College runner, Frankie Aldred, 12, who lives near Looe, has taken the U13 boys’ 1500m title at the Cornwall County Track and Field Championships.Cornish title for Frankie03698 Plymouth College runner, Frankie Aldred, 12, who lives near Looe, has taken the U13 boys' 1500m title at the Cornwall County Track and Field Championships.  Held at Par, Frankie's time of 5 minutes 0.8 seconds was a PB for the Year 7 athlete.  Earlier this year he was the first Year 7 pupil home in Plymouth College's whole school crosscountry event at Newnham Park. Talented Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil, Ollie Piper, 11, has topped the podium in his first ever tetrathlon event. Ollie shoots to the top in tetrathlonTalented Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil, Ollie Piper, 11, has topped the podium in his first ever tetrathlon event. Ollie shoots to the top in tetrathlon03696 Talented Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil, Ollie Piper, 11, has topped the podium in his first ever tetrathlon event.  Ollie claimed the champion's title at GB Yorkshire Spring Tetrathlon after a series of impressive performances in the fencing, shooting, swimming and running event.  As well as scoring the most points across all four disciplines, Ollie won the individual award for the top shoot. The tetrathlon win comes close on the heels of a top five placing at the National Schools Trampolining Championships.  Ollie came through two gruelling rounds to qualify for the national final as South of England Champion. Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill, is Ollie's shooting coach.  "Winning a tetrathlon on his first attempt is an outstanding result", said Andy.  "Ollie's natural sporting ability and gift for picking things up really quickly are a winning combination and I'm sure we will see many more great achievements from him in the future." Year 8 athletes, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, have both won silver medals in the Devon County Track and Field Championships.Silver medals for Plymouth College athletesYear 8 athletes, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, have both won silver medals in the Devon County Track and Field Championships.Silver medals for Plymouth College athletes03694 Year 8 athletes, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, have both won silver medals in the Devon County Track and Field Championships. Poppy claimed silver in the 1500m with a new PB of 4 minutes 59 seconds.  She also won silver in the 800m.  Emily picked up her silver medal by coming second in the 3000m. The girls run in the U15 category but are only 13 years old.  This makes their achievement all the more significant because they often compete against athletes that are a year older. Plymouth College 1st XI enjoyed a very successful day at Sherborne School in the group stages of the National T20 competition. National T20 Competition 2011 Plymouth College 1st XI enjoyed a very successful day at Sherborne School in the group stages of the National T20 competition. National T20 Competition 2011 03688 Plymouth College 1st XI enjoyed a very successful day at Sherborne School in the group stages of the National T20 competition.  In the first of three matches, Plymouth defeated Canford School, with captain, Alex Hill, taking 5-10 from his 4 overs.  Canford were bowled out for 33. Plymouth then defeated Sherborne School who made 156-5 in their 20 overs. Plymouth's innings was brilliantly paced with Pasi Mawalage 43 batting through except for 8 balls, George Stephenson a superb 42, Matt Kidd an explosive 22 and Hill 29 Not Out.  Young Callum Cload finished the match off with 2 balls to spare. Plymouth College were 161-3 and won by 7 wickets. In the final match against Bryanston, Plymouth scored 129 with Pasi Mawalage scoring another outstanding 60. The Plymouth bowlers all chipped in, Henry Bennett taking another 3 wickets and together with excellent fielding, bowled Bryanston out for 84. The team will now play Millfield School 1st XI on Saturday 21st May at Millfield. Plymouth College pupil, Emily Dinnis, 15, has won the inaugural National Schools BE90 eventing qualifier at Bicton Arena, Exeter. Emily wins national qualifier equestrian eventPlymouth College pupil, Emily Dinnis, 15, has won the inaugural National Schools BE90 eventing qualifier at Bicton Arena, Exeter. Emily wins national qualifier equestrian event03684 Plymouth College pupil, Emily Dinnis, 15, has won the inaugural National Schools BE90 eventing qualifier at Bicton Arena, Exeter.  This is a new class run by British Eventing, aimed at school children. Emily, who has never competed in a British Eventing-affiliated competition before, lay in second place after an impressive dressage phase posting a superb score of 22.5.  Riding 'Winosa', she followed this with a double clear round show jumping and cross country without any time faults.  Her competitors couldn't match and she emerged the winner by two points. Emily has now qualified for the BE finals, which will be held at Stonar School next May. After the driest spring since records began, it was inevitable that the weather would take a turn for the worst on the day of the annual match between MCC and Plymouth College - it rained and rained until mid afternoon! Plymouth College 1st XI v MCCAfter the driest spring since records began, it was inevitable that the weather would take a turn for the worst on the day of the annual match between MCC and Plymouth College - it rained and rained until mid afternoon! Plymouth College 1st XI v MCC03682 After the driest spring since records began, it was inevitable that the weather would take a turn for the worst on the day of the annual match between MCC and Plymouth College - it rained and rained until mid afternoon! However, Nick Folland, MCC captain for the second year running, had no problem playing through it though and suggested a 50 overs a side match with fielding restrictions. MCC won the toss and decided to bat. Wood and Andy Maddock, an OPM back at Ford Park for the first time in years, put on 26 in 5 overs until Wood was very well caught low down by Alex Hill at slip off Pasi Mawalage. Twelve runs later Maddock going for a second run was brilliantly run out by Chris Head with a direct throw from the boundary. 34-2. Lurwell and North Devon's Rob Ayre put on 17 before Pasi Mawalage repaid Hill by taking a smart catch to get rid of Lurwell at second slip. Francis was then caught behind by Callum Cload off Pavi Mawalage. Andy Hele and Ayre then put on 48, with Hele playing some big shots before he was Pavi's second victim again caught behind by Cload. Ayre began to run out of partners before Saunders joined him in an eighth wicket partnership 64. Two outstanding catches then happened off Hill and Ben Jackson by Will Dickinson and Chris Head and MCC were all out for 240 off 49 overs. College's Pasi Mawalage and Henry Bennett got off to a rapid start 41 off 8 overs before Wood disposed of Bennett. Matt Kidd and Mawalage then put on 58 in 6 overs before Mawalage (34) hit the ball hard back to Folland who took a good catch at mid on. 99-2 off 14 overs - T20 stuff. At this stage MCC were just about waving the white flag. However, four runs later, Kidd's expansive hitting was his undoing as Folland quietly and deliberately positioned his fielders and Kidd (34) holed out on the boundary. Hill took a top edge to the chin and was then bowled and at 119-4 there was a little wobble! George Stephenson maturely dealt with the situation dealing in ones and twos rather than just boundaries and initially with Callum Cload then Pavi Mawalage recovered the position. Both departed and enter Will Dickinson (31) who with Stephenson put on 54 in 7 overs taking the match away from the MCC. Dickinson got out with 14 runs still required and Ben Jackson, who could easily bat in the top five, coolly helped the outstanding Stephenson past 240 with Stephenson finishing things off with a boundary with 6 overs to spare. Plymouth College 244-8. MCC 240 all out. R Ayre 64. A Hele 48. A Hill 54-3. Pasi Mawalage 34-2. B Jackson 44-2. Pavi Mawalage 50-2. Plymouth College 244-8. G Stephenson 77 NO. R Ayre 51-3. Plymouth College won by 2 wickets. Plymouth College fencer, Tia Simms Lymn, 11, has won both the U12 girls’ epeé and U12 girls’ foil in the British Age Group Fencing Championships. Tia is double British fencing championPlymouth College fencer, Tia Simms Lymn, 11, has won both the U12 girls’ epeé and U12 girls’ foil in the British Age Group Fencing Championships. Tia is double British fencing champion03671 Plymouth College fencer, Tia Simms Lymn, 11, has won both the U12 girls' epeé and U12 girls' foil in the British Age Group Fencing Championships.  Event organizers believe this is the first time a competitor in any age category has ever claimed both championship titles in the same year. Competing against the top fencers from across the UK, Tia won all twenty fights at the two-day event held in Sheffield.  She qualified for the national championships, along with ten other Plymouth College fencers, after taking the South West title in March.  Prep pupils Alice Simmonds and Catherine Bishop came 6th and 7th in the same age category in the epeé competition. In other age groups, Tim Andrews took 3rd place in the U14 boys' epeé while Megan Woodrow came 8th in the U18 girls' epeé, eliminating a GB international fencer in the last 16. Plymouth College director of modern pentathlon and fencing, Andy Hill, said: "Winning both titles is an outstanding achievement and I am really proud of Tia.  She trains hard and I am delighted that it has paid off for her in this way." Plymouth College swimmers have received a clutch of international selections for key events taking place this summer.International selections for swimmersPlymouth College swimmers have received a clutch of international selections for key events taking place this summer.International selections for swimmers03662 Plymouth College swimmers have received a clutch of international selections for key events taking place this summer. Grant Halsall will swim for Great Britain at the World Junior Swimming Championships in Peru in August, as well as the European Junior Swimming Championships in Serbia in July.  Joe Patching has also been selected for this event while Plymouth College Assistant Director of Swimming, Lindsay Dunn, will be a GB Coach.  Dan Sweeney will swim for Ireland. Oliver Leonard has been nominated to swim for Great Britain at the European Youth Olympic Festival in Turkey in July and closer to home, Sian Harkin (Wales), Alexander Gregory (Wales) and Dan Sweeney (Ireland) will compete at the Celtic Tri-Nations in Swansea. The first match of the season started with a good number of pupils watching the entertaining first half an hour.1st XI v BryanstonThe first match of the season started with a good number of pupils watching the entertaining first half an hour.1st XI v Bryanston03659 The first match of the season started with a good number of pupils watching the entertaining first half an hour. Plymouth College's captain, Alex Hill, won the toss and decided to bat. The first delivery received by Henry Bennett was deposited into the astro netting, the second ball was a single and on the third ball Will Chapman was yorked! George Stephenson and Bennett then put on, in good time, 124 for the second wicket before Stephenson was out LBW for 57. Alex Hill, who was not finding batting difficult, then got run out going for a second run. Bennett was by now approaching his maiden 1st XI hundred when he unfortunately decided to play back rather than forward and was bowled for 96; his innings included twelve 4s and five 6s! Pasi Mawalage and Callum Cload then put on 96 before Cload was out bowled for 61. Matt Kidd and Pasi Mawalage then upped the run rate and Mawalage ended up 50 NO and Kidd hit a cameo 30 off 10 balls. Plymouth College ended on 317-5, a great score in 40 overs. Bryanston lost their first wicket when Kidd removed Weld's leg peg and Pasi Mawalage then bowled Jones. At 16-2 Bryanston's job was looking very difficult. Rebecca Bertram and Jennings started the recovery before Bertram became the first of Bryanston 3 run outs due to excellent Plymouth College fielding. Mid overs Plymouth College took their foot off the pedal a little and the game drifted before Pavi Mawalage turned the match back in Plymouth College's favour when he did not panic and ran in and ran out Warden-Owen who with Jo Buckle was proving stubborn. This changed the game's impetus and even though Joe Buckle, Bryanston's Captain, hit a brave 41, wickets kept falling and Bryanston ended 148 all out in the 32nd over. Plymouth College 317-5. H Bennett 96. G Stephenson 57. C Cload 61. Pasi Mawalage 50 NO. Bryanston 148 All Out. Plymouth College won by 169 runs. A talented athlete from Plymouth College has been selected for the South West Tetrathlon team for the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May.Harriet to compete at Royal Windsor Horse ShowA talented athlete from Plymouth College has been selected for the South West Tetrathlon team for the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May.Harriet to compete at Royal Windsor Horse Show03597 A talented athlete from Plymouth College has been selected for the South West Tetrathlon team for the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May. Harriet Mitchell, 12 from Liskeard and a member of East Cornwall Hunt Pony Club, secured her place on the regional team after winning the 15/16 South West area Pony Club Tetrathlon winter league series. A shoot, run, swim and ride event, Harriet will do the show jumping part at Windsor on her pony, Master Juno. No stranger to multi-eventing success, Harriet was the 2010 runner up in her age group at the British Pentathlon Championships and is the South East Pentathlon Champion. "I was very excited when I found out that I had been chosen for the South West team", said Harriet.  "The Royal Windsor Horse Show is a really prestigious event and I'm thrilled to be taking part." Two swimmers from Plymouth College have won gold medals for English Schools at the 40th WISE International held in Dublin. Swimmers win gold medals for EnglandTwo swimmers from Plymouth College have won gold medals for English Schools at the 40th WISE International held in Dublin. Swimmers win gold medals for England03578 Two swimmers from Plymouth College have won gold medals for English Schools at the 40th WISE International held in Dublin.  Competing against the top swimmers from Wales, Ireland and Scotland, Joe Patching and Oliver Leonard picked up seven gold medals for England between them.  Sixth former, Joe, won the 100m backstroke and 200m backstroke, setting new senior competition records for both.  He was also part of the senior relay teams that took the champions' titles in the 4x100m medley and 4x100 freestyle events.  Joe took bronze in the 400m freestyle. In the intermediate competition, Year 11 pupil, Oliver, secured gold for England and set a new competition record in the 100m butterfly.  He also swam in the gold medal-winning teams for the 4x100 medley and 4x100 freestyle relays.  Oliver took silver in the 100m freestyle. Both boys are part of the Plymouth College elite swimming programme. Plymouth College’s U15 girls’ squash team have taken the runners up spot in the trophy competition of the National Schools Squash Championships in Manchester. Squash team are runners up in national trophy competitionPlymouth College’s U15 girls’ squash team have taken the runners up spot in the trophy competition of the National Schools Squash Championships in Manchester. Squash team are runners up in national trophy competition03573 Plymouth College's U15 girls' squash team have taken the runners up spot in the trophy competition of the National Schools Squash Championships in Manchester. Olivia McGonigle, Nadia Khalil, Mae Dartnell, Hettie Burrows and Bethany Gare had a resounding victory in the semi-final beating RGS Newcastle 4-1.  Unfortunately, Kennilworth School proved too strong an opponent in the final, which saw the Plymouth College team lose 5-0. The girls qualified for the national event after a series of South West area knockout rounds earlier this year. Plymouth College squash coach, Kevin Hall, said: "The girls played really well and I am delighted that they made it to the trophy final of one of the top school squash competitions of the year". Ten Plymouth College fencers have qualified for the National Age Group Fencing Championships in May after successfully competing in the South West Championships.Ten fencers qualify for nationalsTen Plymouth College fencers have qualified for the National Age Group Fencing Championships in May after successfully competing in the South West Championships.Ten fencers qualify for nationals0 Ten Plymouth College fencers have qualified for the National Age Group Fencing Championships in May after successfully competing in the South West Championships. In the U12 girls' category, Tia Simms-Lymn came first with Prep School pupils, Catherine Bishop and Alice Simmonds, in second and third.  Charity Brifaut and Tim Andrews took third place in the U14 girls' and boys' sections.  Katie Davies-Gregory was third and Alice Rogers sixth in the U16 girls, while Megan Woodrow and Rebecca Razey took second and third respectively in the U18 girls' competition.  Georgina Barrington also qualifies in the U18 girls' category as a competitor in last year's national competition. The U12 netball team had a great end to the season by taking third place in the Plymouth Schools’ Netball Tournament.Bronze medals for U12s in netball tournamentThe U12 netball team had a great end to the season by taking third place in the Plymouth Schools’ Netball Tournament.Bronze medals for U12s in netball tournament03556 The U12 netball team had a great end to the season by taking third place in the Plymouth Schools' Netball Tournament. The girls made it to the semi-finals by winning four out of five matches.  Here they lost to eventual tournament winners, Plymstock School As, holding them to just four goals.  In the 3rd/4th play-off they had a comfortable 6-1 win over Plymstock School Bs. Year 9 pupil, Kevin Vandabona, 14, has beaten 70 table tennis players from across the county to win the Devon U16 Schools Table Tennis Championships held at Eggbuckland Community College.Kevin is Devon table tennis championYear 9 pupil, Kevin Vandabona, 14, has beaten 70 table tennis players from across the county to win the Devon U16 Schools Table Tennis Championships held at Eggbuckland Community College.Kevin is Devon table tennis champion03557 Year 9 pupil, Kevin Vandabona, 14, has beaten 70 table tennis players from across the county to win the Devon U16 Schools Table Tennis Championships held at Eggbuckland Community College. Kevin's county victory comes just two months after taking the top spot in the U15 Band 1section of the Bribar East Midlands 4 Star Table Tennis Tournament. Kevin started playing table tennis when he was ten years old and practices at home with his Dad.  He was named Plymouth & District Table Tennis League Junior Player of the Month late last year and is a member of a Sunday club in Eggbuckland. With little wind and very mild temperatures, Newnham Park was the perfect setting for the whole school cross-country event. Sargents and Palmers share cross country crownWith little wind and very mild temperatures, Newnham Park was the perfect setting for the whole school cross-country event. Sargents and Palmers share cross country crown03537 With little wind and very mild temperatures, Newnham Park was the perfect setting for the whole school cross-country event. The course was a mix of open fields and woodland trails, with a few hills thrown in for good measure.  Pupils ran either 2.3 km (Years 7 and 8), 3 km (Years 9 and 10) or 4.6 km (Year 11 and Sixth Form). Amazingly, Sargents (green) and Palmers (red) clocked up exactly the same points so the highly-coveted Lang Cup was shared this year.  The shock continued when it was revealed that Dales (yellow) and Chaytors (blue) had also scored the same amount of points to come equal third. In the seniors' 4.6 km race, Ollie Clenaghan (Year 11) was first home in a time of 17.19. Alice Rogers (Year 11) clocked 19.16 to be the first girl home.  George Stephenson was the first Upper Sixth boy (17.40), while Julia Hayes was the first Upper Sixth girl to cross the line (21.47). George Monk took the Lower Sixth boys' honour (18.05) with Anneliese Noakes taking the top spot for Lower Sixth girls (21.46).  At intermediate level, Dominic Day (Year 10) took the top spot in the 3 km race finishing in 14.07.   Hettie Burrows (Year 10) was the first girl in a time of 17.06.   Sahila Kellett (14.51) and Joleen Davies (17.47) took the Year 10 titles. The juniors covered 2.3 km, which saw Steven Rogers (Year 8) first past the post in 7.53.   Poppy Tank (Year 8) was the winning girl in a time of 8.24.  Frankie Aldred (8.07) and Tia Simms-Lymn (10.19) were the first boy and first girl home for Year 7. Retired teacher, Graham Lang, who coached the school cross-country team for many years, presented the individual medals and the Lang Cup.  The event was organized by Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn. "Newnham Park is a spectacular setting and I'm delighted with how the race went", said Sarah.   "The weather was kind to us, which was a huge relief, and it was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and energy of everyone coming together for a whole school event.  "A big thank you to parents Mr and Mrs Cobbold for letting us use Newnham Park." Plymouth College 1st X1 hockey players, Georgia Hall (17) and Sarah Jeffery (16) have been selected for the U17 Devon Hockey Team.Devon hockey team for Georgia and SarahPlymouth College 1st X1 hockey players, Georgia Hall (17) and Sarah Jeffery (16) have been selected for the U17 Devon Hockey Team.Devon hockey team for Georgia and Sarah03534 Plymouth College 1st X1 hockey players, Georgia Hall (17) and Sarah Jeffery (16) have been selected for the U17 Devon Hockey Team.  Also members of Marjon Hockey Club, the girls were selected to the Devon team after a series of winter training sessions and a trial. In the coming weeks they will play for Devon in two tournaments against Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, where they will be observed by South West selectors. A resounding 39-3 victory was a fitting end to a phenomenal season for Plymouth College’s 1st XV.Plymouth College 1st XV triumph in U18 Devon Cup A resounding 39-3 victory was a fitting end to a phenomenal season for Plymouth College’s 1st XV.Plymouth College 1st XV triumph in U18 Devon Cup 03512 A resounding 39-3 victory was a fitting end to a phenomenal season for Plymouth College's 1st XV. Played on the home pitch of opponents, Kelly College, the match was tight and competitive for the first thirty minutes.  Kelly drew first blood with a penalty kick from 30 metres but Plymouth quickly responded with a penalty of their own.  Plymouth's first try came from Jon Dawe.  As the team gained in confidence more scores followed courtesy of George Stephenson, converted by Henry Slade, putting them 15-3 ahead at half time. In the second half, Plymouth, who are sponsored by chartered surveyors, Monk and Partners, scored 24 unanswered points with two tries from hard-working Max Earle, a further try from George Stephenson and one from Ellery Jones.  Henry Slade slotted two conversions. "There was some excellent play from the whole team", said Plymouth College Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards.  "Particular mention should go to Will Dickinson for line outs and kick offs and Alistair Lochhead for rucks and break downs.  Jack Norris and John Mason were very prominent on the back row and behind the scrummage, George Stephenson was as lively as ever with some telling runs causing distress to the Kelly defence on more than one occasion. "This was a fantastic end to our 1st XV's season, which has seen us notch up 17 out of 18 wins.  Our only defeat was in the quarter finals of the Daily Mail Cup against the formidable reigning champions, Whitgift, who are set to contest the final in April." The postponed match between Plymouth College and Kelly College will take place on Wednesday 9 March at Kelly College. Kick-off is 3.30 p.m.New date for U18 Devon Cup finalThe postponed match between Plymouth College and Kelly College will take place on Wednesday 9 March at Kelly College. Kick-off is 3.30 p.m.New date for U18 Devon Cup final0 The postponed match between Plymouth College and Kelly College will take place on Wednesday 9 March at Kelly College.  Kick-off is 3.30 p.m. Plymouth College Modern Pentathlete, Alice Rogers, 16, has been selected to represent Great Britain at a multi-nation youth competition this weekend.Great Britain call-up for modern pentathletePlymouth College Modern Pentathlete, Alice Rogers, 16, has been selected to represent Great Britain at a multi-nation youth competition this weekend.Great Britain call-up for modern pentathlete03489 Plymouth College Modern Pentathlete, Alice Rogers, 16, has been selected to represent Great Britain at a multi-nation youth competition this weekend. Alice will compete for Great Britain Youth A Girls against athletes from across Europe in the Modern Pentathlon Youth International event being held in Gloucester.  She gained her place after attending two assessment weekends earlier this year. Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill, is delighted with Alice's selection.  "Alice has been training really hard so this selection is well deserved", said Andy.  "She is the current South West champion for both triathlon and biathlon and her place on the GB team demonstrates just how strong she is in multi-eventing." Plymouth College and Exeter Chiefs fly half, Henry Slade, 17, scored a try, a penalty and made four conversions in a spirited England U18 encounter with an Italian U19 side at Heywood Road, Sale.Plymouth College rugby star helps England triumph over ItalyPlymouth College and Exeter Chiefs fly half, Henry Slade, 17, scored a try, a penalty and made four conversions in a spirited England U18 encounter with an Italian U19 side at Heywood Road, Sale.Plymouth College rugby star helps England triumph over Italy03486 Plymouth College and Exeter Chiefs fly half, Henry Slade, 17, scored a try, a penalty and made four conversions in a spirited England U18 encounter with an Italian U19 side at Heywood Road, Sale. Slade's first conversion came after 21 minutes when prop Luke Cowan-Dickie scored a try from close range.  Another eight minutes into the game saw Mark Jennings claim a try on his home ground.  Missing the conversion, Slade redeemed himself a short while later by slotting a penalty from just outside the 22 and then added another to give seven points for the half when he converted Tom Jubb's try.  England went into half time 22-0 ahead. Italy began the second half pressuring England into a kickable penalty, which they missed.  England's response was immediate with Slade skipping inside from the right wing and stepping on the gas to score an impressive try, which he duly converted to give his side a 29-0 lead.  Captain, Dominic Barrow, went on to score the first of two tries, converted again by Slade, taking England's lead to 36-0. With nine named substitutes a piece, both sides began to make changes across the board.  England scored two more tries and conversions from Will Hooley, on for Slade, made the score 50-0.  In the last five minutes Jubb and Barrow doubled their try tallies, with easy conversions for Hooley to make the final score 64-0. "I was really pleased with how I played in the match against Italy but it was particularly good to see how well we played as a team", said Slade.  "Hopefully my performance has put me in with a good chance of being selected for the next match against Scotland at the end of March." "I was very proud to see Henry make such a big contribution on the international rugby stage", said Plymouth College Head of Rugby Richard Edwards.  "His outstanding performance was a reflection of his hard work and commitment to the sport.  However, his school rugby is still very important to him and he hopes to finish his Plymouth College rugby career on a high at the National Schools Sevens Tournament at Rosslyn Park later this month." Plymouth College pupil, Harry Mason, 11, has won the 12-13 age group category at the South West Regional Diving Championships held in Trowbridge.Harry dives his way to competition winPlymouth College pupil, Harry Mason, 11, has won the 12-13 age group category at the South West Regional Diving Championships held in Trowbridge.Harry dives his way to competition win03484 Plymouth College pupil, Harry Mason, 11, has won the 12-13 age group category at the South West Regional Diving Championships held in Trowbridge. A member of Plymouth Diving, Harry completed 12 dives on the 1m and 3m boards, as well as poolside. Harry has been diving for 2 ½ years and trains twice a week.  He also plays rugby and is in the school hockey team. The wind and rain did not stop the Plymouth College Preparatory School U9 boys’ cross country team from taking the top spot in the St Petroc’s Cross Country competition. U9 boys claim cross country titleThe wind and rain did not stop the Plymouth College Preparatory School U9 boys’ cross country team from taking the top spot in the St Petroc’s Cross Country competition. U9 boys claim cross country title03459 The wind and rain did not stop the Plymouth College Preparatory School U9 boys' cross country team from taking the top spot in the St Petroc's Cross Country competition.  Competing against nearly 30 schools from across Devon and Cornwall, the U11 boys' and girls' teams came 2nd in their categories. The challenging event took place on the cliffs above the beaches at Bude in North Cornwall.  The U9s tackled a hilly 1500m course while the U11s competed over 2500m.  Outstanding individual performances included Alex Ratsey, Alasdair Lambie, Joe Taylor and Oscar Boyhan Irvine who finished 3rd, 4th, 5th and 7th in the U9 boys' race.  Ollie Piper came 4th in the U11 boys. "I am very proud of all our young runners", said Head of PE, Chris Cottrell.  "Despite the awful weather they all ran really well.  There were more than 100 runners in each race so to get so many top ten places is a great achievement." The Devon Cup final, due to take place today at Brickfields, has been postponed because of the weather.Devon Cup Final PostponedThe Devon Cup final, due to take place today at Brickfields, has been postponed because of the weather.Devon Cup Final Postponed0 The Devon Cup final, due to take place today at Brickfields, has been postponed because of the weather. Rising rugby star, Tom Mumford, 16, has secured a place on the U16 England rugby squad. Tom clinches place on England squadRising rugby star, Tom Mumford, 16, has secured a place on the U16 England rugby squad. Tom clinches place on England squad03421 Rising rugby star, Tom Mumford, 16, has secured a place on the U16 England rugby squad.  The Plymouth College hooker came to the attention of England selectors when he captained the U16 South West team in a tournament between the North, the Midlands and the South East. The U16 Devon vice captain will spend half term at a training camp in Abingdon, alongside fellow local players Richard Bayliss and Dan Pullinger making up the full Devonport Services front row.  With everything to play for, the boys will be doing their best to make sure they are selected into the U16 England teams. As well as his meteoric rise to the national stage, Tom has been part of a phenomenal season for the Plymouth College team, which also includes U18 England player, Henry Slade.  Claiming the scalps of QEH, King's Taunton, Truro School, Exeter School, Cornwall U18s and Exeter College to name but a few, the team made it to the quarter finals of the U18 Daily Mail Cup, where they conceded their first defeat of the season to reigning champions, Whitgift School. The Cup sees more than 600 teams take part each year and reaching the last eight is by far a competition best for Plymouth College. Sixteen out of seventeen wins puts the team in the top three in the national schools' rugby league and led to the February 'Team of the Month' accolade from Rugby World. They are playing Kelly College in the U18 Devon Cup final on Thursday at Brickfields (KO 6 p.m.).  "Knowing I've made it to the England squad is an amazing feeling", said Tom.  "I've always dreamed of getting this far and after making the Devon and South West teams, I knew it was within my grasp.  I just tried to keep focussed and play the best rugby that I could."  "We are all really proud of Tom's achievement and delighted that he has made the England squad", said Plymouth College head of rugby, Richard Edwards.  "He is an incredibly talented player and demonstrates a maturity and professionalism way beyond his years.  His place on the national squad is very well deserved." Plymouth College has returned triumphant from the English Schools’ Swimming Team Championships in Stockport with six of the 12 national titles. Plymouth College is top swimming school in the country for a fourth timePlymouth College has returned triumphant from the English Schools’ Swimming Team Championships in Stockport with six of the 12 national titles. Plymouth College is top swimming school in the country for a fourth time03423 Plymouth College has returned triumphant from the English Schools' Swimming Team Championships in Stockport with six of the 12 national titles.  The school swimming team already holds six of the 12 national records. With Millfield School only winning three events (one of which was shared with Harrow School), Plymouth College's title haul means it is the top swimming school in the country for the fourth year running. Plymouth College came out on top in the Intermediate Girls' Freestyle Relay, Intermediate Girls' Medley Relay, Intermediate Boys' Medley Relay, Senior Girls' Freestyle Relay, Senior Girls' Medley Relay and Senior Boys' Freestyle Relay.  A change-over infringement in the Senior Boys' Medley Relay cost the team a seventh title and the Intermediate Boys came 3rd in the Freestyle Relay. "I am delighted that Plymouth College continues to be the top school in the country for swimming", said Clive Hambly, teacher in charge of swimming at Plymouth College.  "There were many fine individual performances from our swimmers and a number of personal bests were broken." The Plymouth College winning teams were: Intermediate girls Lara Cosford, Georgia Denney, Franzisca Reppe, Grace Vertigans Intermediate boys Barton Townley, Matt Rose, Oliver Leonard, Jack Smith, Alexander Gregory Senior girls Sian Harkin, Kirsty Harkness, Amy McVeigh, Laura Vertigans Senior boys Christian Homer, Joe Patching, Edward Pearce, Sam Straughan Plymouth College came up short in their quarter-final of the U18 Daily Mail Cup against Whitgift School, but not before making their illustrious opponents battle hard for their place in the semi-final. Plymouth College give reigning champions a run for their money Plymouth College came up short in their quarter-final of the U18 Daily Mail Cup against Whitgift School, but not before making their illustrious opponents battle hard for their place in the semi-final. Plymouth College give reigning champions a run for their money 03406 Plymouth College came up short in their quarter-final of the U18 Daily Mail Cup against Whitgift School, but not before making their illustrious opponents battle hard for their place in the semi-final. Whitgift's much vaunted centre Elliot Daly opened the scoring, slotting three long range penalties (one a massive 55 metre effort) as a result of Plymouth falling offside repeatedly. However, Plymouth, who are sponsored by chartered surveyors, Monk & Partners, fought back strongly with Henry Slade cutting the deficit with a penalty. Whitgift responded with a well worked try to make the score 14-3 at the break. The next score needed to come from Plymouth and this proved the case when crackerjack turner no 9, George Stephenson, barrelled over after concerted pressure on the Whitgift line. With the score at 14-10 after Slade added the conversion, the game was now on again, but Plymouth needed to find another gear to secure more scoring success. Whitgift though managed to shut out further Plymouth attacking forays and two scores from distance resulted in Whitgift running out 24-10 winners. "Although obviously disappointed, the boys should be really proud of their achievements", said Plymouth College Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards. "Their commitment this season has been outstanding and they have taken on some serious opponents to get this far. "Whitgift, 1200 boys and in possession of Millfieldesque facilities with an £8 million sports centre just completed, are serious players at national level and are the reigning champions.  With 300 boys, we are significantly smaller than them and not many schools of our size get this far in the competition.  About 600 teams from around the country take part so to get to the last eight is a tremendous achievement." The season, that has seen the Plymouth College 1st XV win 16 out of 17 competitive matches, win Rugby World's 'Team of the Month' and reach the top 3 in the national schools' rugby league, is not quite over.  The Devon Cup final against Kelly College is scheduled to be played on Thursday 17 February at Brickfields, 6 p.m. kick-off. Plymouth College will play their U18 Daily Mail Cup quarter final match against Whitgift School on Wednesday at Delgany. Kick-off is 2 p.m.Plymouth College to meet Whitgift in Daily Mail quarter finalsPlymouth College will play their U18 Daily Mail Cup quarter final match against Whitgift School on Wednesday at Delgany. Kick-off is 2 p.m.Plymouth College to meet Whitgift in Daily Mail quarter finals0 Plymouth College will play their U18 Daily Mail Cup quarter final match against Whitgift School on Wednesday at Delgany.  Kick-off is 2 p.m. The 1st XV set up their final 8 clash with last year's champions after taking the honours in a tense South West Group A final against Stowe School. Plymouth, sponsored by chartered surveyors, Monk & Partners, achieved their best ever result in the Daily Mail competition with a final score of 21-17. The win against Stowe was the unbeaten team's 16th this season and they currently lie in 2nd place in the national schools rugby league.  Dominic Day (15) Tim Weale (15) and Emil Agobiani (14) have been selected for the U15 West Devon rugby squad.U15 West Devon rugby squad for Plymouth College playersDominic Day (15) Tim Weale (15) and Emil Agobiani (14) have been selected for the U15 West Devon rugby squad.U15 West Devon rugby squad for Plymouth College players03394 Dominic Day (15) Tim Weale (15) and Emil Agobiani (14) have been selected for the U15 West Devon rugby squad. Members of the Plymouth College U15 rugby team, the boys made it through two trials to gain their places. However, the pressure will still be on when they play for West Devon for the first time.  The team is taking part in a tournament between North, South and East Devon and is the trial for the Devon squad. "I am really pleased that the boys have made the West Devon team", said Plymouth College Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards.  "The Plymouth College U15s have made great progress this season under the direction of coaches Jon Mears and Ben Tolan, and I am delighted that all their hard word has been rewarded in this way." Plymouth College elite swimmer, Jamila Lunkuse, has brought home two gold and three silver medals for Uganda in the CANA Zone 3&4 Swimming Championships.Medals for Jamila in African swimming competitionPlymouth College elite swimmer, Jamila Lunkuse, has brought home two gold and three silver medals for Uganda in the CANA Zone 3&4 Swimming Championships.Medals for Jamila in African swimming competition03387 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Jamila Lunkuse, has brought home two gold and three silver medals for Uganda in the CANA Zone 3&4 Swimming Championships. Competing in Botswana against eleven African nations, Jamila, 14, triumphed in both the 50 and 100 breast, and came second in the 50 fly, 50 free and 100 free. The Year 9 pupil, who boards at the school, previously represented her country in the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October and the World Swimming Championships (25m) in Dubai in December. On a glorious sunny afternoon Years 2 to 6 at Plymouth College Preparatory School took advantage of the school grounds in the annual House Cross Country event.Sun shines for Prep cross countryOn a glorious sunny afternoon Years 2 to 6 at Plymouth College Preparatory School took advantage of the school grounds in the annual House Cross Country event.Sun shines for Prep cross country03370 On a glorious sunny afternoon Years 2 to 6 at Plymouth College Preparatory School took advantage of the school grounds in the annual House Cross Country event. With Senior School Year 10 Sports Leaders as marshals and time-keepers, the route ranged from one lap of the grounds for Year 2s to two laps for Year 6. Downton House (red) triumphed with 173 points, Pusey House (blue) came second, Wantage House (green) took third place and Sellon House (yellow) were fourth. Individual winners were: Year 2 Girls - Jade Wenham-Crossley   Year 2 Boys - Fardeen Gafoor Year 3 Girls - Connie Hickman                Year 3 Boys - Sean Rump Year 4 Girls - Lauren Hession                  Year 4 Boys - Alex Ratsey Year 5 Girls - Phoebe Tank                       Year 5 Boys - George Spencer Year 6 Girls - Alice Simmonds                 Year 6 Boys - Ollie Piper Plymouth College achieved their best result in the Daily Mail Cup by taking the honours in a tense South West Group A final against Stowe School on Friday.Plymouth College through to Daily Mail Cup quarter finalsPlymouth College achieved their best result in the Daily Mail Cup by taking the honours in a tense South West Group A final against Stowe School on Friday.Plymouth College through to Daily Mail Cup quarter finals03360 Plymouth College achieved their best result in the Daily Mail Cup by taking the honours in a tense South West Group A final against Stowe School on Friday. The team, sponsored by chartered surveyors, Monk & Partners, will now meet holders Whitgift in the quarter finals, playing at home on a date yet to be set. The match was a thrilling event with Plymouth never trailing, though Stowe never stopped battling to try and snatch victory. Nerves played a part for both sides and had Plymouth taken all their scoring chances, they might have been more comfortable in the dying minutes. Spirit and desire just saw them through. Tries from Slade, Tolan and Stephenson all converted by Slade were enough to send last year's semi finalists out. Final score Plymouth College 21, Stowe School 17. Plymouth are the smallest school left in the Cup, with their next opponents boasting 1200 students. The win against Stowe is the unbeaten team's 16th this season and they currently lie in 2nd place in the national schools rugby league.  The side play in the Devon 7s on 2 February, but the prolonged run in the Cup means that preparation for the 7-a-side version has been limited.    Ollie Piper, 11, has qualified for the National Schools Trampolining final after two gruelling rounds of competition. Ollie ‘bounces’ his way to the NationalsOllie Piper, 11, has qualified for the National Schools Trampolining final after two gruelling rounds of competition. Ollie ‘bounces’ his way to the Nationals03358 Ollie Piper, 11, has qualified for the National Schools Trampolining final after two gruelling rounds of competition.  The Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil made it to the final after finishing second in the U11 boys elite semi-final held on the Isle of Wight, where he beat top trampolinists from all over the South of England.  The final is being held in Stourbridge in March. Ollie has only been trampolining for a year and is already a very successful springboard diver, competing and medalling on all three boards at last year's ASA National Age Group competition. Plymouth College Preparatory School Headmaster, Chris Gatherer, said: "Ollie has achieved great things over the past few years in a number of sporting arenas.  We are delighted to see him achieving such tremendous success with his trampolining whilst still setting himself high standards in other activities both inside and outside the classroom." Dom Elsom, Phoenix and University of Plymouth Trampoline Club head coach, was "delighted and very proud" of his young prospect's progress. Up-and-coming Plymouth College rugby star, Tom Mumford, 16, from Noss Mayo, has secured a place on the U16 South West rugby team.Tom makes U16 South West rugby teamUp-and-coming Plymouth College rugby star, Tom Mumford, 16, from Noss Mayo, has secured a place on the U16 South West rugby team.Tom makes U16 South West rugby team03296 Up-and-coming Plymouth College rugby star, Tom Mumford, 16, from Noss Mayo, has secured a place on the U16 South West rugby team. A member of the school's senior rugby squad and U16 Devon vice captain, Tom won his place after attending selection camps at Bryanston and Wellington College just after Christmas. First up is a training weekend in Wiltshire followed by a tournament in Coventry in February against the North, Midlands and South East.  Tom will be looking to impress at the tournament, which will be attended by England observers responsible for selecting players for the U16 England squad. "I'm delighted to make the South West team", said Tom.  "It's been a lot of hard work but I'm really looking forward to playing at regional level.  I'm now more determined than ever to go all the way and get a place on the U16 England team." Plymouth College 49, King’s College Taunton 10 After a long weather induced lay off, Plymouth College and King's Taunton played their round six Daily Mail Cup fixture earlier this week. Plymouth College 1st XV in last 16 of Daily Mail CupPlymouth College 49, King’s College Taunton 10 After a long weather induced lay off, Plymouth College and King's Taunton played their round six Daily Mail Cup fixture earlier this week. Plymouth College 1st XV in last 16 of Daily Mail Cup03316 Plymouth College 49, King's College Taunton 10. After a long weather induced lay off, Plymouth College and King's Taunton played their round six Daily Mail Cup fixture earlier this week. Plymouth, who are sponsored by chartered surveyors Monk & Partners, took a 6-0 lead thanks to two pens from Henry Slade (one from 50 metres) before King's replied with their own three pointer. Sustained pressure from Plymouth resulted in a 40 metre run in for George Stephenson with the extras added by Slade from out wide. Further tries from Wace and Tolan extended Plymouth's lead and a distance drop goal from rock solid full back Charlie Attis meant the half time score stood at 28-3. King's came out strongly in the second half and had most of the territory and possession in the first 20, though they were unable to translate this into points. After weathering the storm, Plymouth scored a further three tries with Ollie Wace securing his hat trick and Stephenson claiming a second. Henry Slade kicked seven from nine for a haul of 16 points. King's refusal to lie down was rewarded when their right winger intercepted and raced under the sticks from 60 metres. However, Plymouth's dominance was across the park with the lineout targets of will Dickinson and Tom Clenaghan also picking off King's on their throw. Jack Norris had a very strong game at open side while the forward pack showed a great collective work rate. The win takes Plymouth College through to the final of the South West A group section, which will be against Stowe School or Abingdon. The unbeaten Plymouth team are Rugby World's 'Team of the Month' and currently lie second in the national schools rugby league table.  They will play the postponed final of the Devon Cup against Kelly College in February. Rugby World has honoured the Plymouth College 1st XV’s unbeaten record with its ‘Team of the Month’ accolade. First XV are Rugby World’s ‘Team of the Month’Rugby World has honoured the Plymouth College 1st XV’s unbeaten record with its ‘Team of the Month’ accolade. First XV are Rugby World’s ‘Team of the Month’03316 Rugby World has honoured the Plymouth College 1st XV's unbeaten record with its 'Team of the Month' accolade.   When the snow and ice brought everything to a halt at the end of last term, the team, sponsored by chartered surveyors, Monk & Partners, were in the top three of the national schools rugby league, through to the final of the Devon Cup and in the latter stages of the Daily Mail Cup. With team members Henry Slade in the U18 England squad, Charlie Maidment securing a place with the U19 Scottish Exiles and Tom Mumford selected to the U16 South West squad, the 2010-2011 season is proving to be one of the best yet. Plymouth College athletes, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, will represent Devon U13 girls in the National County Cross Country Championships in Birmingham in March. Cross country success in regional and county competitionsPlymouth College athletes, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, will represent Devon U13 girls in the National County Cross Country Championships in Birmingham in March. Cross country success in regional and county competitions03310 Plymouth College athletes, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, will represent Devon U13 girls in the National County Cross Country Championships in Birmingham in March.  The two girls qualified after Poppy picked up an individual silver medal and Emily came 6th at the South West Inter Counties Cross Country Championships held in Bicton.  Running against a competitive field of 53 girls from six south west counties, Poppy and Emily were part of the winning Devon team and came away with a gold medal each. The following weekend, Poppy and Emily were two of four Plymouth College runners to qualify for the South West Schools Cross Country Championships after success in the Devon Schools event at Seale Hayne.  Representing Plymouth and West Devon Schools, they repeated their 2nd and 6th places in the Junior Girls category and will now take part in the South West Championships in Somerset in February.  The other Plymouth College athletes to qualify are Year 7 running star, Frankie Aldred, who came 1st in the Minor Boys' race, and Alice Rogers, who came 8th in the Intermediate Girls. Photo: L to R Emily and Poppy Plymouth College elite swimming scholar, Christian Homer, has received two prestigious awards in his home country, Trinidad and Tobago.Two awards for elite swimmerPlymouth College elite swimming scholar, Christian Homer, has received two prestigious awards in his home country, Trinidad and Tobago.Two awards for elite swimmer03320 Plymouth College elite swimming scholar, Christian Homer, has received two prestigious awards in his home country, Trinidad and Tobago. Rubbing shoulders with the Caribbean island's top sporting stars, Christian received the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee's Junior Sportsman of the Year accolade at a glitzy prize-giving ceremony just after Christmas.  In the same week, he was also named Youth Achiever of the Year at the Trinidad Guardian Sports Desk Awards. Christian was nominated for both awards as a result of his gold medal-winning performance at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in the summer.  It was his country's first Olympic gold medal since Montreal in 1976.  Christian also swam for his country at senior level at the Delhi Commonwealth Games in October. Now back at school in Plymouth, Christian is still waiting to hear the outcome of the FCB Sport Foundation Sportsman of the Year Award, for which he has also been nominated. Photograph top right: Trinidad Guardian Sports Desk Awards - Christian Homer (right) receives his winner's plaque from Trinidad Guardian managing director, Gabriel Faria <img src="/media/52295/trinidad-guardian-sports-2.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="Tobago 2"/> Trinidad Guardian Sports Desk Awards  L to R Jehue Gordon (Sports Personality of the Year), Nicholas Alexis (Naz Yacoob Memorial Award), Wayne Manderville (rep Lifetime Achievement Award winner Russell Latapy), Christian Homer (Youth Achiever of the Year), Ian Carter (rep Female Sports Personality of the Year Kelly-Ann Baptiste) <img src="/media/52310/tt-olympic-committee-award.jpg" width="400" height="232" alt="Tobago 3"/> Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee Awards L to R Christian Homer (Junior Sportsman of the Year), Roger Daniel (Sportsman of the Year), Anil Roberts (Minister of Sports), Cleopatra Borel-Brown (Sportswoman of the Year), Shanntol Ince (Sports Personality of the Year), Cherelle Thompson (Junior Sportswoman of the Year), Rudolph Jack (Outstanding Contribution to Sport) Plymouth College will field nine runners at the Devon Schools Cross Country in January.Nine qualify for Devon Schools Cross CountryPlymouth College will field nine runners at the Devon Schools Cross Country in January.Nine qualify for Devon Schools Cross Country03310 Plymouth College will field nine runners at the Devon Schools Cross Country in January.  Representing Plymouth and West Devon Schools will be:             Frankie Aldred (Year 7 Boys)             Steven Rogers and Harry Preston (Year 8/9 Boys)             Poppy Tank, Emily Ackford, Harriet Mitchell, Lily Spry (Year 8/9 Girls)             Alice Rogers (Year 10/11 Girls)             Ed Thomas (Year 12/13 Boys) The event takes place at Seale Hayne in Newton Abbot on 15th January. Year 8 pupils, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, have won silver and bronze medals respectively in the Devon Cross Country Championships. Silver and bronze medals for cross country runnersYear 8 pupils, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, have won silver and bronze medals respectively in the Devon Cross Country Championships. Silver and bronze medals for cross country runners03310 Year 8 pupils, Poppy Tank and Emily Ackford, have won silver and bronze medals respectively in the Devon Cross Country Championships.  Held in Exeter, more than 30 girls raced the 3000m course in the U13 girls' category. With very clear margins over the rest of the field, both girls are hoping to be selected for Devon in the South West Inter Counties Championships taking place in early January. Just a matter of weeks since she won the South West Triathlon title, Alice Rogers has claimed the South West Biathlon champion’s mantle.Alice is regional Biathlon and Triathlon ChampionJust a matter of weeks since she won the South West Triathlon title, Alice Rogers has claimed the South West Biathlon champion’s mantle.Alice is regional Biathlon and Triathlon Champion03308 Just a matter of weeks since she won the South West Triathlon title, Alice Rogers has claimed the South West Biathlon champion's mantle. Held at Millfield School, Alice, 15, scored a PB in the swim and was just 1 second outside her PB in the run. She has now qualified for the National Schools Biathlon Championships semi-final to be held in Bath in January. Tom Mumford, 15, will play his heart out this weekend as he battles for a place in the U16 South West rugby team.Tom on track for South West rugby teamTom Mumford, 15, will play his heart out this weekend as he battles for a place in the U16 South West rugby team.Tom on track for South West rugby team03296 Tom Mumford, 15, will play his heart out this weekend as he battles for a place in the U16 South West rugby team.  Currently vice captain of Devon, Tom is one of 70 from around the region invited to take part in a selection camp at Bryanston, followed a week later by a tournament at Wellington College. From here 40 will go through to form a South West squad. Devon U16s have had a great season, winning every game in a recent four-county tournament.  Tom was one of 13 from the team invited to Bryanston. Also part of the Plymouth College senior rugby squad, Tom is an Exeter Chief Academy member and a former U15 Devon captain. Plymouth College First XV continue their dominance on the rugby field with a 33-7 win over Truro School in round five of the U18 Daily Mail Cup. First XV celebrate 14th winPlymouth College First XV continue their dominance on the rugby field with a 33-7 win over Truro School in round five of the U18 Daily Mail Cup. First XV celebrate 14th win03316 Plymouth College First XV continue their dominance on the rugby field with a 33-7 win over Truro School in round five of the U18 Daily Mail Cup.  Leading 20-0 at the break, Plymouth College secured the victory thanks to tries from captain and centre Josh Tolan, scrum half George Stephenson and wing Ben Jackson.  England U18 fly half, Henry Slade, added three conversions and four penalties.  This is the unbeaten team's 14th win this season ranking Plymouth College in the top three in the country in schools' rugby.  They meet King's College Taunton in the next round of the Daily Mail Cup on 8th December.  Prior to that is the battle for the U18 Devon Cup, when they are up against Kelly College in the final on 1st December. Already a double British champion in biathlon, Myles Pillage, 12, has taken the Youth D boys title in the National Triathlon Championships.Biathlon star is National Triathlon ChampionAlready a double British champion in biathlon, Myles Pillage, 12, has taken the Youth D boys title in the National Triathlon Championships.Biathlon star is National Triathlon Champion02863 Already a double British champion in biathlon, Myles Pillage, 12, has taken the Youth D boys title in the National Triathlon Championships. The championships, held in Wolverhampton, featured top young athletes from schools and clubs around the country. Securing personal bests in the swim and the shoot, Myles finished the swim-shoot-run competition on 3392 points.  Along with twin brother Alex (9th individually) and James Murphy (7th individually), he was also part of the winning team, beating Whitgift and West Midlands into second and third place respectively. Plymouth College had an impressive team of 20 athletes at the national event.  Emily Ackford took silver in Youth D girls with Harriet Mitchell close behind claiming bronze.  Together with Hattie Slade they came second in the team event.  The Plymouth College Youth C girls' team came 5th. "I was delighted to see so many strong performances from our athletes", said Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill. "Myles in particular is developing into a really great all-round athlete. To have secured three national titles this year is truly outstanding and I'm sure he has a very promising future ahead of him." Results so far this season have been very impressive for Plymouth College at both First and Second XV level. Senior rugby teams remain unbeatenResults so far this season have been very impressive for Plymouth College at both First and Second XV level. Senior rugby teams remain unbeaten03316 Results so far this season have been very impressive for Plymouth College at both First and Second XV level.  The Firsts are unbeaten and have accounted for QEH, King's Taunton, Truro School, Exeter School, Cornwall U18s, Exeter College (a regional academy side) and, most recently, Kelly College.  The team will face Kelly again on 1st December in the final of the Devon Cup. On the national schools rugby website, Plymouth College is one of only a handful of schools to have not been defeated. Henry Slade is in the England elite squad, Charles Attis is in the final trial for the South West region and Jon Dawe has represented Cornwall this season. Captain, Josh Tolan, is currently under scrutiny from the Irish Exiles.  The Second XV are also undefeated and have secured good victories against strong opposition such as QEH, Truro School, King's Taunton, Exeter School and Kelly College. At age group level, the U13s have been largely competitive and count victories over Ivybridge and Shebbear amongst their highlights.  The Year 7s have some talented players among their numbers and recorded a number of victories in a recent local competition, as well as defeating Shebbear in a recent fixture. Tom Daley’s double gold-winning performance at the Commonwealth Games ‘is a real inspiration to our many other top athletes’ says Plymouth College Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn. Tom’s Commonwealth golds inspire fellow Plymouth College athletes - 19/10/10Tom Daley’s double gold-winning performance at the Commonwealth Games ‘is a real inspiration to our many other top athletes’ says Plymouth College Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn. Tom’s Commonwealth golds inspire fellow Plymouth College athletes - 19/10/1003092 <img src="/media/41259/tom-medals.jpg" width="294" height="400" alt="Tom Medals"/> Tom Daley's double gold-winning performance at the Commonwealth Games 'is a real inspiration to our many other top athletes' says Plymouth College Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn.  "Despite having so many pressures in their daily lives, Tom's tremendous success has shown these young people that their own dreams really can come true." The champion diver was welcomed back to the independent school, where his classmates and fellow athletes were eager to catch up with him and see his gold medals for themselves. The school is renowned for its elite athlete programme, particularly swimming, which saw two other pupils take part in the Games and has many more with their sights set on London 2012.  The school's Modern Pentathlon and Fencing Academy boasts a number of national and international athletes all of whom aspire to getting to the top in the world sports arena.  Rugby and hockey are also well represented at senior levels. Joe Patching, 16, is one of the school's swimmers with an eye on 2012.  Already a British and English Age Group record holder, he is very much on the British Swimming radar after winning gold medals for England in the WISE Home Nations tournament and the UK Schools Games.  Joe said: "Tom's success at the Commonwealth Games has made me realise how much I hope that will be me in a few years' time.  He's had a big injury to deal with and I think he showed real maturity in taking a step back and letting it heal properly.  His performance was amazing and he proved once and for all that he really is a world-class diver." Megan Woodrow, 16, started fencing at the school when she was 14 and is now the U16 South West fencing champion and has just represented Great Britain in a 20-nations fencing tournament in Germany. Megan said: "Seeing Tom win two gold medals in the Commonwealth Games was amazing and I am so pleased for him.  What's great is that he also does really well at school and shows that it is possible to succeed in both sport and studies." Among the school's younger pupils, Myles Pillage, 12, is the current British Schools Biathlon Champion and the British Modern Biathlon Champion.  Recently adding shooting to his top-class running and swimming abilities, he has just qualified for the National Triathlon Championships.  Myles said: "It is great having someone like Tom at school.  Winning two golds in the Commonwealth Games is awesome and I hope that one day I might win one too." On the sports field, Plymouth College fly half, Henry Slade, 17, plays for the U18 England Rugby team while West of England hockey player, Julia Hayes, also 17, is about to attend trials for a place on the U18 England Hockey Team.  Henry said: "Tom's achievement is phenomenal.  He is only 16 and yet is competing in a men's competition and beating the Olympic Champion - a great inspiration to all of us at Plymouth College." Julia said: "When I was much younger I was on the British World Class Start Diving Programme and so have seen Tom grow and develop into the top athlete that he is today.  He is such a great role model for young people as it is easy for us to relate to him because he's the same age.  Diving makes sport look fun and through him hopefully more young people will want to take up sport." On his return to school, Tom was greeted by a giant banner saying 'Well Done Tom'.  "It's been really nice coming back to school and seeing all my friends", said Tom.  "I loved the banner and the response around school has been fantastic.  I'm now really looking forward to getting back to normal and focusing on my school work."   Plymouth College pupil and world diver, Tom Daley, has clinched another gold medal in the Commonwealth Games.Second Commonwealth gold for Tom - 13/10/10Plymouth College pupil and world diver, Tom Daley, has clinched another gold medal in the Commonwealth Games.Second Commonwealth gold for Tom - 13/10/1002653 Plymouth College pupil and world diver, Tom Daley, has clinched another gold medal in the Commonwealth Games.  The win was Tom's second gold in as many days, having won the 10m synchro with diving partner, Max Brick, yesterday. Tom beat Australian Olympic Champion, Matthew Mitcham, in the closely-fought final of the individual 10m platform event.  In second place after the first two rounds, his third dive of perfect 10s put him just ahead of Mitcham.  Having saved his most difficult dive for the last round, the Australian was unable to hold his nerve and Tom won through with a margin of 29.20 points.   The Prep School A team started their match well with some good defence work. The attack was also first-rate resulting in a goal scored by team captain, Tommy Eyston.Prep girls triumph over Blundell’s in hockey matches - 12/10/10The Prep School A team started their match well with some good defence work. The attack was also first-rate resulting in a goal scored by team captain, Tommy Eyston.Prep girls triumph over Blundell’s in hockey matches - 12/10/1003086 The Prep School A team started their match well with some good defence work.  The attack was also first-rate resulting in a goal scored by team captain, Tommy Eyston. In the second half, Blundell's stepped up their attack and tried for goals at least six times.  Excellent defense by the Prep goal keeper, Toni Hunter, kept Plymouth out of trouble.  The final score was 1-0 to the Prep School. The B team also had a successful afternoon. Both sides were passing and attacking well - Blundell's just missed out on scoring when Prep goal keeper, Sophie Vaughan, made an excellent save.  Ceri Evans then went on to score the only goal of the day and match ended in another 1-0 victory to the Prep School. Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has clinched a gold medal with dive partner, Max Brick, in the 10m synchro at the Commonwealth Games.Commonwealth gold for Tom - 12/10/10Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has clinched a gold medal with dive partner, Max Brick, in the 10m synchro at the Commonwealth Games.Commonwealth gold for Tom - 12/10/1002653 Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has clinched a gold medal with dive partner, Max Brick, in the 10m synchro at the Commonwealth Games. The pair took the lead after their second dive and entered the last round 11.52 points ahead of Australia.  A solid final dive consolidated their gold-medal position, leaving Australia with the silver medal.  Canada took the bronze. Tom starts his individual 10m platform campaign tomorrow. Plymouth College pupil. Lily Spry, 13, has clinched the individual runners up rosette in the National Schools One Day Event held at Stonar School in Wiltshire. Rosette for Lily in national equestrian competition - 11/10/10Plymouth College pupil. Lily Spry, 13, has clinched the individual runners up rosette in the National Schools One Day Event held at Stonar School in Wiltshire. Rosette for Lily in national equestrian competition - 11/10/1003072 Plymouth College pupil. Lily Spry, 13, has clinched the individual runners up rosette in the National Schools One Day Event held at Stonar School in Wiltshire.  With a dressage score of 33, the Modern Pentathlon scholar missed out on the top sport by just 1.5 penalties. Competing against 23 teams from all over the country, Lily was one of four Plymouth College pupils taking part.  Three double clear rounds earned the school team 5th place overall. Three of the four team members will travel to Buckinghamshire in December where they will take part in the National Schools Jumping with Style Championships. Photograph L to R Lily Spry (Woodfalls Thatcher), Emily Dinnis (Camway Sunshine), Morwenna Moore (Cherrimill Beaugeste), Alex Moore (Master of Moy). Plymouth College fencer, Megan Woodrow, 16, has been selected for the Great Britain U17 epée team for a 20-nations competition in Heidenheim in Germany in November.Fencer makes Great Britain epée team - 7/10/10Plymouth College fencer, Megan Woodrow, 16, has been selected for the Great Britain U17 epée team for a 20-nations competition in Heidenheim in Germany in November.Fencer makes Great Britain epée team - 7/10/1003070 Plymouth College fencer, Megan Woodrow, 16, has been selected for the Great Britain U17 epée team for a 20-nations competition in Heidenheim in Germany in November. The Modern Pentathlon scholar has been a boarder at Plymouth College for four years and has just started studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the Sixth Form.  She is the South West U16 Fencing Champion and is currently 8th in the U17 UK rankings. Plymouth College have enjoyed a very successful September at Senior level. Great start to the season for Plymouth College rugby - 4/10/10Plymouth College have enjoyed a very successful September at Senior level. Great start to the season for Plymouth College rugby - 4/10/1002680 Plymouth College have enjoyed a very successful September at Senior level.  The First XV are unbeaten and have secured notable victories against Cornwall Under 18s, QEH Bristol and King's College Taunton.   In addition, the Second XV have secured two good victories and the Third XV are undefeated after their first fixture against King's Taunton.  Players of note include outside half Henry Slade pictured (England Elite Under 18s), Charles Attis (South West Under 16s, 2009), scrum half George Stephenson and hooker Jonathan Dawe (Cornwall Under 18s).  The side is led by Josh Tolan. The South West Triathlon Championships, held at Plymouth College, proved to be a great success for the school with its athletes winning a clutch of medals and national qualifications. Eighteen athletes qualify for National Triathlon Championships - 17/9/10The South West Triathlon Championships, held at Plymouth College, proved to be a great success for the school with its athletes winning a clutch of medals and national qualifications. Eighteen athletes qualify for National Triathlon Championships - 17/9/1003040 The South West Triathlon Championships, held at Plymouth College, proved to be a great success for the school with its athletes winning a clutch of medals and national qualifications.  The run, swim, shoot competition welcomed 85 competitors from around the region. Fielding 25 athletes, Plymouth College won three gold medals, seven silver medals and five bronze medals.  Eighteen of the 25 qualified for the national finals after coming in the top six in their age category and/or being part of a winning team. Gold medals were won by: Alice Rogers - Youth B Girls Charity Brifaut, Marina Carrier, Lily Spry - Youth C Girls' Team Emily Ackford, Hattie Slade, Harriet Mitchell - Youth D Girls' Team Silver medals were won by: Alex Sells - Youth E Boys Annie Crocker - Youth E Girls Myles Pillage - Youth D Boys Harriet Mitchell - Youth D Girls Harry Preston - Youth C Boys Myles Pillage, Alex Pillage, James Murphy - Youth D Boys' Team Bronze medal were won by: Piers Dupree-Thomas - Youth E Boys Emily Ackford - Youth D Girls Marina Carrier - Youth C Girls Poppy Le Marechal - Youth A Girls Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill, said: "I am delighted that we will be taking so many athletes to the national finals in Wolverhampton at the end of October.  It was the first time we had hosted the event and the pressure was on but everything ran really smoothly." Year 7 pupil, Natasha Spiers, has had a busy summer, gaining a place at the West Devon Satellite Academy for Netball.Netball Academy for Natasha - 16/9/10Year 7 pupil, Natasha Spiers, has had a busy summer, gaining a place at the West Devon Satellite Academy for Netball.Netball Academy for Natasha - 16/9/1003038 Year 7 pupil, Natasha Spiers, has had a busy summer, gaining a place at the West Devon Satellite Academy for Netball.  The Academy is part of England Netball and the Excel Delivery for Athletes. Natasha, who previously attended Plymouth College Preparatory School, has always been a leading light in school netball teams and plays for Marjon U13s. Modern Pentathlon scholar, Harriet Mitchell (Year 8), has come second in the British Pentathlon Championships.Modern Pentathlon star takes runners up spot in British Championships - 8/9/10Modern Pentathlon scholar, Harriet Mitchell (Year 8), has come second in the British Pentathlon Championships.Modern Pentathlon star takes runners up spot in British Championships - 8/9/1003036 Modern Pentathlon scholar, Harriet Mitchell (Year 8), has come second in the British Pentathlon Championships.  Competing in the Youth D Girls category, Harriet secured PBs in shooting, fencing and swimming and scored a clear round in riding.  She was just outside her PB in the 1 km run. The event in Solihul saw the best club and school athletes in the country take part, including 19 girls in Harriet's age group. Earlier this summer Harriet became the South East Pentathlon champion and last year she took silver in the South West Triathlon Championships. Year 8 pupil, Poppy Tank, has won a silver medal at the South West Track and Field Championships. Representing Devon, she came second in the 800m. Silver medal for Poppy - 8/9/10Year 8 pupil, Poppy Tank, has won a silver medal at the South West Track and Field Championships. Representing Devon, she came second in the 800m. Silver medal for Poppy - 8/9/1003034 Year 8 pupil, Poppy Tank, has won a silver medal at the South West Track and Field Championships. Representing Devon, she came second in the 800m.  Poppy is a member of the City of Plymouth Athletics Club and regularly takes part in regional and national events.  In 2009 she was the National Prep School U12 1500m champion. Plymouth College elite swimmer, Christian Homer, has won a gold medal in the inaugural World Youth Olympic Games in Singapore. Christian wins Olympic gold for Trinidad and Tobago - 25/8/10Plymouth College elite swimmer, Christian Homer, has won a gold medal in the inaugural World Youth Olympic Games in Singapore. Christian wins Olympic gold for Trinidad and Tobago - 25/8/1003032 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Christian Homer, has won a gold medal in the inaugural World Youth Olympic Games in Singapore.  Swimming for Trinidad and Tobago, it was his country's first gold medal at an Olympic event since Montreal in 1976. Christian qualified for the final of the 50m backstroke as the top-seed, setting a new national record of 26.31 seconds in the semi-finals. He then went on to clock 26.36 seconds in the final of the one-length event at the Singapore Sport School Olympic-sized pool. The multiple Carifta, Caribbean Island Swimming Championship (CISC) and Central American and Caribbean Age-Group Swimming Championships (CCCAN) champion had to defy large home crowd support for Singaporean, Kal Wee Ng Rainer, to touch the time pad first. Ng Rainer posted a 26.45 silver medal effort, while there was a tie for third place with Kuwait's Abdulah Altuwaini and Australia's Max Ackermann both clocking 26.46. Describing the race, Christian said he executed his breakout from the start of the race perfectly and emerged at the surface of the water at the 15 mark ahead of the field. At the halfway mark, he said he increased his stroke rate. He started to get tired at about 40 metres, but increased his arm speed to compensate and just focused on the finish. When he touched the wall, he looked up at the scoreboard and saw first spot next to his name. Christian said: "I am really proud, elated, relieved, excited and very happy. It was an amazing feeling to win gold. I was just buzzing! "It has not really sunk in yet but it was great to represent my country. I'm glad all the hard work has paid off in this way." The Plymouth College Preparatory School swimming team has triumphed at the first ‘Plymouth Inter-Primary Schools Swimming Championships’. Prep School wins inaugural swimming championships - 9/7/10The Plymouth College Preparatory School swimming team has triumphed at the first ‘Plymouth Inter-Primary Schools Swimming Championships’. Prep School wins inaugural swimming championships - 9/7/1003003 The Plymouth College Preparatory School swimming team has triumphed at the first 'Plymouth Inter-Primary Schools Swimming Championships'.  Hosted by Plymouth Leander at the Plymouth College pool, the Prep swimmers beat teams from seven schools to become the large schools and overall champions of the event. Before the main gala started, the children got to watch two Great Britain senior international swimmers in action - Emma Wilkins and Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, who both took part in the World Championships in Rome last year, are the products of the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander scholarship programme. The competition that followed saw a number of fiercely-fought races, with Plymouth College Preparatory School clinching the Large Schools Competition trophy and the Val Conroy Memorial shield for the Overall Champions. St Christopher's Primary School were the winners of the Small Schools trophy. Plymouth Leander Head Coach and Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said, "This was a fantastic event full of enthusiasm and healthy competition. It also allowed us to talent ID young swimmers who may have an exciting future in this sport. At this age it is so important that such youngsters get involved in a forward-thinking and intuitive programme so that their potential can be sought. We look forward to welcoming even more schools to this competition next year." Overall Points Score <ol> <li>Plymouth College Preparatory School          94</li> <li>Hyde Park Junior School                                 91</li> <li>St Christopher's Primary School                    76</li> <li>Hooe Primary School                                        64</li> <li>Boringdon Primary School                              59</li> <li>St George's Primary School                            39</li> <li>Salisbury Road Primary School                      26</li> </ol> Large Schools Points Score <ol> <li>Plymouth College Preparatory School          53</li> <li>Hyde Park Junior School                                 49</li> <li>Hooe Primary School                                        37</li> <li>Salisbury Road Primary School                      20</li> </ol> Small Schools Points Score <ol> <li>St Christopher's Primary School                    44</li> <li>Boringdon Primary School                              31</li> <li>St George's Primary School                            23</li> </ol> Freddie Thompson, 13, has qualified for the Horse of the Year Show.Horse of the Year Show for equestrian star - 8/7/10Freddie Thompson, 13, has qualified for the Horse of the Year Show.Horse of the Year Show for equestrian star - 8/7/1003001 Freddie Thompson, 13, has qualified for the Horse of the Year Show.  He has clinched one of just 22 places at the prestigious show in Birmingham in October. Riding Powys Jack Flash in the Ridden, Mountain and Moorland Ponies Welsh Section A Class, Freddie was selected after an outstanding performance at this year's Royal Cornwall Show where he won a gold medal.  His success was all the more impressive because he was competing against adults. Freddie, who has been riding since he was three years old, said: "It's very hard to get in to the Horse of the Year Show so I am really pleased that I've been selected." Catherine Bishop, 10, has won the Arnold Epee Leon Paul Series Tournament in Blackpool. Prep pupil wins fencing tournament and tops rankings - 8/7/10Catherine Bishop, 10, has won the Arnold Epee Leon Paul Series Tournament in Blackpool. Prep pupil wins fencing tournament and tops rankings - 8/7/1002999 Catherine Bishop, 10, has won the Arnold Epee Leon Paul Series Tournament in Blackpool.  The win puts the talented fencer joint first in the girls U11 national rankings. Catherine, who has been fencing for nearly three years, survived 12 fights in the pool stages of the competition before triumphing in a further 15 in the knock-out rounds to take the tournament title. Myles Pillage, 12, has followed up his British Schools Biathlon Championships title in March by taking the winner’s crown at the MPAGB (Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain) British Biathlon Championships. Young biathlon star takes national championship title - 7/7/10Myles Pillage, 12, has followed up his British Schools Biathlon Championships title in March by taking the winner’s crown at the MPAGB (Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain) British Biathlon Championships. Young biathlon star takes national championship title - 7/7/1002863 Myles Pillage, 12, has followed up his British Schools Biathlon Championships title in March by taking the winner's crown at the MPAGB (Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain) British Biathlon Championships.  The Plymouth College Year 7 swimming scholar topped the Youth D Boys category with 2560 points. Competing against the top 43 athletes from clubs and schools around the country, Myles won the 50m swim in a new personal best time of 28.14.  He was fifth in the 1 km run. The Plymouth College team, which included his twin brother Alex Pillage and James Murphy, took the silver medal spot at the event held in Liverpool. No stranger to winning, Myles was the British Schools Biathlon Champion in Year 5.  He took the 50m freestyle title and record at the IAPS National Swimming Championships when he was in Year 6 and clinched bronze in the National Triathlon Championships the same year.  He then went on to win silver and bronze medals at the 2009 National Swimming Championships, and in April this year he won and broke his age group record in the 50m fly at the National Arena League Cup final in Sheffield. Myles does his swimming with Plymouth Leander, while his running and shooting development comes under the Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon Academy banner.  He is also a star rugby player. "Winning the British Championships is an outstanding achievement and I am very proud of Myles", said Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill.  "He is a very talented young athlete and is going from strength to strength. With significant improvement in his shooting in the last few months, I have high hopes that he will do well in the regional and national triathlon championships later this year." Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews, 13, has won the U13 England Epee Championships. Fencer is England Champion - 22/6/10Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews, 13, has won the U13 England Epee Championships. Fencer is England Champion - 22/6/1002963 Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews, 13, has won the U13 England Epee Championships.  Held in Hatfield, Tim beat nearly 60 competitors in a series of knock-out rounds to take the champion's title.  The win has secured his selection to the England team in an U15 tournament in Poland early next year. "Tim has had a fantastic season with silver at the British Championships and topping the UK rankings in his age group", said Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill.  "He was the favourite going into this tournament, which put him under a lot of pressure, and so I am really pleased that he kept his nerve and performed so strongly." Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 17, has won the U17 and U20 Scottish Fencing Championships. Fencer is Scottish champion - 15/6/10Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 17, has won the U17 and U20 Scottish Fencing Championships. Fencer is Scottish champion - 15/6/1002953 Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 17, has won the U17 and U20 Scottish Fencing Championships. Held in Dunfermline, the one-day event saw Georgina progress through the rounds of both age group competitions in a series of first-to-15-points fights. The Scottish-born athlete competed against the best fencers in Scotland to take the two titles. "It was a great feeling to win both the championship titles", said Georgina.  "I was particularly pleased to win the U20 category as I'm only 17". Georgina moved to Devon when she was young and until recently has competed for England.  However, fencing in Scotland is developing fast and Georgina is keen to be part of the up-and-coming team. "About six months ago I decided that I would like to represent the country of my birth", explains Georgina.  "There are a lot of exciting opportunities in the sport in Scotland and I really want to be involved.  My aim is to get selected for Scotland for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.  The event is going to be held in Glasgow and fencing is going to be in the main competition for the first time in years." No stranger to representing her country, Georgina was selected to the senior Great Britain team for the World Cup Tournament in Spain followed by selection to the U17 Great Britain team for the European Fencing Championships in Athens earlier this year.  She is currently 8th in the senior UK rankings. Pierce Widdecombe, aged 10, has been selected for the U10 Devon Cricket team.Devon cricket team for Prep pupil - 15/6/10Pierce Widdecombe, aged 10, has been selected for the U10 Devon Cricket team.Devon cricket team for Prep pupil - 15/6/1002951 Pierce Widdecombe, aged 10, has been selected for the U10 Devon Cricket team.  A member of the school cricket team and Yelverton Cricket Club, the Year 5 Preparatory School pupil was chosen because of his strong batting skills. The county team played their first match against Oxfordshire last week and have Gwent in their sights for their next match.  "It is really nice to be chosen to play for Devon", said Pierce.  "I played one match for them last season and really enjoyed it so it is great to be a proper member of the team this year." A keen sportsman, Pierce also plays tennis. The weather was none too kind to the athletes taking part in this year’s Senior Sports Day but spirits and performances failed to be dampened by the heavy drizzle.Dales lifts senior sports day cup - 11/6/10The weather was none too kind to the athletes taking part in this year’s Senior Sports Day but spirits and performances failed to be dampened by the heavy drizzle.Dales lifts senior sports day cup - 11/6/1002926 The weather was none too kind to the athletes taking part in this year's Senior Sports Day but spirits and performances failed to be dampened by the heavy drizzle. Julia Hayes was awarded the Victrix Ludorum and Josh Tolan received the Victor Ludorum for their winning performances in the 100m.  Julia also set a new senior girls' record for the 200m in a time of 27 seconds.  Other strong performances came from Georgina Barrington, who broke the senior girls' record for both shot putt (9.20m) and discus (27.14m), and George Stephenson, who took the senior boys' shot putt title with an impressive 9.54m. Dales came out on top scoring 358 points to lift the House team trophy.  Palmers were second on 309 points, with Chaytors and Sargents very close behind on 298 and 296 points respectively. Officials from the National Diving Association visited Plymouth College Preparatory School earlier this week to see if the school has any budding Tom Daleys.Any more Tom Daleys out there? - 11/6/10Officials from the National Diving Association visited Plymouth College Preparatory School earlier this week to see if the school has any budding Tom Daleys.Any more Tom Daleys out there? - 11/6/1002918 Officials from the National Diving Association visited Plymouth College Preparatory School earlier this week to see if the school has any budding Tom Daleys. The three staff put children from Years 2 and 3 through some coordination tests to see if they had the potential to be top divers.  They were looking at flexibility, agility and many other skills required to be a good diver.  All the children had great fun taking part in this search for another sporting star and received a certificate and a free diving session at Central Park pool. The school already boasts Plymouth Diving members, Ollie Piper and Alice Avens, both in Year 5 and aged 10, who have already taken part in overseas diving competitions.  Tom Daley himself is a pupil at the Senior School. The Infant Sports Day at Plymouth College Preparatory School was held on the final Friday of the first half term. Sun shines for Infants Sports Day - 9/6/10The Infant Sports Day at Plymouth College Preparatory School was held on the final Friday of the first half term. Sun shines for Infants Sports Day - 9/6/1002907 The Infant Sports Day at Plymouth College Preparatory School was held on the final Friday of the first half term.  The weather was wonderful and all the children from Kindergarten up to Year 2 performed brilliantly.  Each child ran a straight race and then either a sack, ball and spoon or obstacle race. The Kindy did their traditional "Teddy Bear" race, which caused a huge amount of laugher from the large crowd of parents, grandparents and friends. After all the races were finished the children were given an ice-cream provided by the Friends' Association.  Certain sports staff felt it important to sample the ice cream to make sure it tasted OK.  It did! Plymouth College Preparatory School took a team of athletes from Years 5 and 6 to compete in a new-style athletics competition, Quadkids. Prep competes in first Quadkids - 9/6/10Plymouth College Preparatory School took a team of athletes from Years 5 and 6 to compete in a new-style athletics competition, Quadkids.Prep competes in first Quadkids - 9/6/1002904 Plymouth College Preparatory School took a team of athletes from Years 5 and 6 to compete in a new-style athletics competition, Quadkids. Competing against Kelly Prep and Blundell's Prep, each team member (seven boys and seven girls) had to take part in four events - 80m sprint, throwing the cricket ball, 900m and the long jump.  Points were awarded for each competitor's times and distances. Harmony Rump did extremely well coming 3rd overall for the girls.  John Alao also did well coming 4th in the boys' event. The final score placed Blundell's in first position, Plymouth College 2nd and Kelly 3rd. Myles Pillage, 12, has followed up his British Schools biathlon title in March with a win in the MPAGB (Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain) South West Biathlon Championships. Young biathlon star takes South West Championship title - 13/5/10Myles Pillage, 12, has followed up his British Schools biathlon title in March with a win in the MPAGB (Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain) South West Biathlon Championships. Young biathlon star takes South West Championship title - 13/5/1002863 Myles Pillage, 12, has followed up his British Schools biathlon title in March with a win in the MPAGB (Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain) South West Biathlon Championships.  The Plymouth College Year 7 swimming scholar topped the Youth D Boys category with 2548 points, winning the swim and coming second in the run. Competing against 47 top club and school athletes in the region, Myles has qualified for the national championships being held in Liverpool in July.  The Plymouth College team, which included his twin brother Alex Pillage and James Murphy, took the silver medal spot and have also qualified for the national event. No stranger to winning, Myles was the British Schools Biathlon Champion in Year 5.  He took the 50m freestyle title and record at the IAPS National Swimming Championships when he was in Year 6 and clinched bronze in the National Triathlon Championships the same year.  He then went on to win silver and bronze medals at the 2009 National Swimming Championships and just three weeks ago, he won and broke the record in the 50m fly at the National Arena League Cup final in Sheffield. Myles does his swimming with Plymouth Leander, while his running and shooting development comes under the Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon Academy banner.  He is also a star rugby player. "Myles is a very talented young athlete", said Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill.  "He is going from strength to strength and with significant improvement in his shooting in the last few months, I have high hopes that he will do well in the regional and national triathlon championships later this year." With it bitterly cold and the weather threatening yet again, the Plymouth College 1st XI entertained a spirited Devonport High School 1st XI at Ford Park. Strong batting brings win for Plymouth College 1st XI against DHS - 13/5/10With it bitterly cold and the weather threatening yet again, the Plymouth College 1st XI entertained a spirited Devonport High School 1st XI at Ford Park. Strong batting brings win for Plymouth College 1st XI against DHS - 13/5/1002861 With it bitterly cold and the weather threatening yet again, the Plymouth College 1st XI entertained a spirited Devonport High School 1st XI at Ford Park. After Plymouth College's normal openers Henry Bennett and Luffman went cheaply with their stumps up rooted by Marsh, the Plymouth batting order was changed to give others a chance and the players didn't disappoint. First Ben Jackson then Will Dickinson batted well with Jackson scoring 34 and Dickinson 28. Ollie Mulberry then blasted a couple of sixes in his quick fire 17 before George Stephenson and Alex Hill, coming in down the order, put on a magnificent 134 in the last 10 overs with shots all over the park. A number of sixes hit the Meade King Hall and the staff in the OPM Suite had their meeting disturbed as the ball bounced off the side of the building! Given the condition of the pitch, 262-5 off 35 overs was an excellent batting exhibition and the running between the wickets was of a very high standard. In reply, DHS's Marsh, who was well supported by Alex Carr, played superbly hitting a terrific 74 before being brilliantly caught by Will Dickinson having just been caught by Chris Head who fell over the boundary rope in the process. Henry Bennett then caught Carr off a fierce extra cover drive off the Iceman and the match turned. Bennett and Will Dickinson then both took regular wickets. Bennett finished with figures of 4-34 and Dickinson 3-3 as DHS were all out for 154 in the 26th over. Plymouth College won by 108 runs. Despite all the hard work of the groundsmen and all the other Plymouth College staff, the match between MCC and Plymouth College came to a very early and damp conclusion for the third year runningRain stops MCC and Plymouth College cricket match…again! - 7/5/10Despite all the hard work of the groundsmen and all the other Plymouth College staff, the match between MCC and Plymouth College came to a very early and damp conclusion for the third year runningRain stops MCC and Plymouth College cricket match…again! - 7/5/1002829 Despite all the hard work of the groundsmen and all the other Plymouth College staff, the match between MCC and Plymouth College came to a very early and damp conclusion for the third year running - the annual match against Plymouth College is one of a series played by MCC on their tour of Devon and Cornwall. In the "spirit of cricket", Nick Folland, MCC Captain for the day, did his very best to ensure some cricket was played but every time the players took to the field the rain began to fall. Nevertheless in the five overs possible before lunch MCC's and Heathcoat's Liam Lewis batted superbly, scoring freely straight and in the mid wicket region. Ollie Mulberry, however, produced the "champagne moment" with a stunning direct hit from deep fine leg, demolishing the stumps and running out one of MCC's openers. After lunch, and again to try and play cricket, the original match was abandoned and a T20 match started. MCC, despite losing a wicket caught behind Callum Cload off Ollie Mulberry in the first over, raced along with former Torquay and Devon player Andy Hele playing some wonderful shots, including one special drive backward of square and a six over extra cover. Alex Hill once more showed Plymouth College's excellence in the field knocking the stumps over from extra cover and effecting a run out. The heavens then opened and the match and day were abandoned. Our thanks to everyone on the day, including the groundsmen, the umpires who did their best to get cricket played and to the catering staff for the magnificent spread and barbecue. An academy offering top-rate squash and racketball coaching and facilities has been launched at Plymouth College in partnership with England Squash and Racketball. Squash and Racketball Academy launched at Plymouth College - 30/4/10An academy offering top-rate squash and racketball coaching and facilities has been launched at Plymouth College in partnership with England Squash and Racketball. Squash and Racketball Academy launched at Plymouth College - 30/4/1002828 An academy offering top-rate squash and racketball coaching and facilities has been launched at Plymouth College in partnership with England Squash and Racketball.  The Plymouth Squash and Racketball Academy is the brainchild of fitness instructor and squash coach, Steve Perrins, who wanted to ensure regional-standard squash opportunities remained available in the city after the closure of Westcountry Squash. As part of the project, Plymouth College's two squash courts have been refurbished with funding from England Squash and Racketball.  Three further venues in the city will also be part of the Academy so that all abilities, from beginners to elite players covering different levels of the National Coaching Scheme, can be catered for. Plymouth College will be the school clubs' link and the Academy hub while Plymouth University will provide higher education and 16+ development.  The Elfordleigh Hotel and Leisure Club will focus on ladies and over 50s racketball with Esporta Devonshire providing racketball development for existing members.  The Academy will also be building two ASB courts at the new Life Centre in Central Park. "As the new Academy's director, Steve Perrins has worked tirelessly to recruit coaches and refurbish venues to ensure Plymouth's rich heritage of producing champions lives on", said Matt Baker, South West Regional Manager for England Squash and Racketball.  "England Squash and Racketball are supporting the Academy with equipment and funding and the additional courts in the new Life Centre will really add value to this very exciting project. "England Squash and Racketball has invested a significant amount of funding into this project because we believe that the Academy is set on solid foundations.  Steve refuses to accept second best and I firmly believe that squash and racketball in Plymouth will recreate its heyday very soon." "I am delighted to be opening the Plymouth Squash and Racketball Academy in partnership with England Squash and Racketball and Plymouth College", said Steve.  "This is an initiative that will raise the profile of the game and will see the delivery of squash and racketball across the city.  I am extremely excited to have the British number one, Nick Matthew, as the Academy Patron.  He is a player with the highest work ethic in the sport and an exceptional role model for our junior players." Nick Matthew, British Open and British National Champion, World No.2 and British No.1, said: "The Plymouth Squash and Racketball Academy is a fantastic project that will help raise the profile of the game of squash both in the local area and on a national scale and I am delighted to be associated with it.  It gives me great pleasure to become a patron of the Academy, which has been set up by Steve Perrins, with the help of England Squash and Racketball, both of whom have given me great support during my career.  I'm sure the Academy will inspire many future generations to take up squash and hopefully produce a few champions of the future." Kevin Hall is Plymouth College's Sports Centre Manager and will be the Academy's conditioning coach.  "Having the Academy based at Plymouth College is going to be a great asset for both the school and the local community.  Not only will our school squash team gain greatly from the improved facilities and expert coaching, but we can now share this with other young people from across Plymouth." Squash and racketball programmes will start at the Elfordleigh next week and Plymouth College the week after. Photograph: L to R Steve Perrins (Squash and Racketball Academy Director), George Stephenson (Plymouth College Squash Team), Kevin Hall (Plymouth College Sports Centre Manager and Squash and Racketball Academy Conditioning Coach), Sarah Dunn (Plymouth College Deputy Head), Ed Knight (Plymouth College Squash Team), Matt Baker (South West Regional Manager England Squash and Racketball) The International Olympic Committee Executive Board has granted permission for Plymouth College swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, to be eligible for selection to compete for Great Britain in the 2012 Olympic Games. Achieng given green light to represent Great Britain in 2012 Olympics - 30/4/10Achieng given green light to represent Great Britain in 2012 Olympics - 24/4/1002784 The International Olympic Committee Executive Board has granted permission for Plymouth College swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, to be eligible for selection to compete for Great Britain in the 2012 Olympic Games. Permission was granted after the IOC received agreement from Kenya's National Olympic Committee and FINA. Under IOC rules athletes wishing to change the country they represent have to wait three years from their last national representation before they can compete for their new country in the Olympic Games.  Achieng was a matter of days short of this qualification after last competing for Kenya in the World Championships last summer.  Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said: "This is fantastic news for Achieng and the last piece of the jigsaw after FINA granted permission for her to compete in all other international events from 1st August this year.  We can now have a very clear focus into London 2012." The double British breaststroke champion has already been selected to swim for Great Britain and England in the European Championships and Commonwealth Games respectively later this year. The Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander partnership has much to celebrate after the swimming club became champions of England and Wales for the third year running. Plymouth swimmers win national league for third year running - 28/4/10Plymouth swimmers win national league for third year running - 28/4/1002818 The Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander partnership has much to celebrate after the swimming club became champions of England and Wales for the third year running.  Leander, which has been working in partnership with Plymouth College for nine years, took the National Arena Swimming League Cup title at Ponds Forge in Sheffield.  The Plymouth club was nearly 90 points ahead of second placed Stockport Metro with Millfield in third. Of the six Top Age Group Athletes Awards, Plymouth swimmers took five and claimed eight meet records. Most of the swimmers who competed are part of the combined education and swimming programme, which allows young athletes to flourish both in the pool and in the classroom without one compromising the other.  Plymouth Leander Head Coach and Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said: "This is always a great team event, one that we love to support and it is worth a great deal of kudos to the winning team.  Along with our terrific successes at the recent British Championships, we look to use this victory to spur our athletes on into the national and international events waiting for us this coming summer." After excellent pre-season practices and looking splendid in their new kit courtesy of their sponsor’s, JNE Construction, Plymouth College 1st XI comprehensively beat Kelly College in their 35 overs-a-side match by 164 runs.Win over Kelly gets cricket season off to a great start - 27/4/10Win over Kelly gets cricket season off to a great start - 27/4/1002808 After excellent pre-season practices and looking splendid in their new kit courtesy of their sponsor's, JNE Construction, Plymouth College 1st XI comprehensively beat Kelly College in their 35 overs-a-side match by 164 runs. Winning the toss and batting, the College's openers Captain Jake Luffman and Henry Bennett put on 83 in 9 overs, before Bennett (41) mistimed a drive and was caught and bowled. Luffman then quickly lost Alex Hill, unluckily caught down the leg side. George Stephenson and Luffman then put on 100 for the third wicket before their rhythm was slightly disrupted by the drinks break and Luffman (89), who was pushing on for his well-deserved century, played a little inside out and skied a catch to cover. Ed Knight joined Stephenson and they gradually accelerated the score putting on 41 in 5 overs, before Stephenson on 50 was caught on the square leg boundary. Ollie Mulberry was very well caught at mid off for a Primary and Ben Jackson played one lovely on drive before departing. Tom Passmore could not repeat his heroics of Wednesday and was comprehensively bowled and Alex Smith and Chris Head saw out the innings, 286-9 off 35 overs - a most impressive total. After tea Ollie Mulberry and Chris Head opened the bowling and Mulberry uprooted Kelly's Elliot's stumps only to turn around to see he had bowled a no ball! The overs ticked over with Kelly scoring slowly before Alex Hill made the break through, immediately followed by a second wicket, well caught at short mid off by Ben Jackson. A rejuvenated Alex Smith bowled with control and away drift but it was his alternative delivery, which he has worked on in the nets, which did the trick with Alex Hill taking a stunning one handed catch at square leg. Smith then took another wicket thanks to a smart stumping by George Stephenson (2-8 off 5 overs), Hill chipped in with two more wickets finishing with 4-21 off 7 overs and Mulberry and Jackson one a piece. With College trying to buy wickets, a spirited repost from McManus and Monger, saw Kelly finish on 122-9 off their 35 overs, 164 short of Plymouth College. The batting definitely benefitted from the T20 middle practice, the fielding was excellent all things considered but perhaps the bowling lacked the accuracy and necessary direction due to it being very early season. Ed Knight and Henry Bennett's spin may also have had more of an impact if they had bowled earlier and a T20 field had been adopted for Kelly's lower order batsmen. All in all this was an excellent early season victory, which bodes well for the remainder of the season. The 2010 British Swimming Championships has proved to be the most successful yet for Plymouth College swimmers. British Swimming Championships 2010 - 20/4/10British Swimming Championships 2010 - 20/4/1002796 The 2010 British Swimming Championships has proved to be the most successful yet for Plymouth College swimmers.  Leading the way is Achieng Ajulu-Bushell who took two British titles and has secured selection to the European Championships and the Commonwealth Games.  The strong performances of a number of other swimmers has also resulted in call-ups to national teams at both senior and junior levels with many breaking national, regional and age group records.  As well, Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd (pictured), has been selected as Great Britain Coach for the European Championships in Budapest. <ul> <li>Achieng Ajulu-Bushell Great Britain selection for European LC Championships (Budapest) 2010 England Selection for Commonwealth Games (New Delhi) 2010 Two British Senior titles (50m & 100m Breaststroke) British & English Age Group Records (50m & 100m Breaststroke) South West of England Senior Record (100m Breaststroke)</li> <li>Grant Halsall Great Britain selection for European Junior Championships (Helsinki) 2010 Isle Of Man Selection for Commonwealth Games (New Delhi) 2010 Isle Of Man Senior Records (50m Backstroke, 100m Backstroke & 200m Backstroke)</li> <li>James Young Great Britain selection for European Junior Championships (Helsinki) 2010 British & English Age Group Record (100m Freestyle)</li> <li>David Gregory Great Britain selection for European Junior Championships (Helsinki) 2010 British Senior bronze medal (50m Backstroke) British & English Age Group Record (50m Backstroke)</li> <li>Calum Jarvis Great Britain selection for European Junior Championships (Helsinki) 2010</li> <li>Christian Homer Trinidad & Tobago selection for World Youth Olympics (Singapore) 2010</li> <li>Joe Patching British & English Age Group Record (200m Backstroke) South West of England Junior Records (200m Freestyle & 200m Backstroke)</li> <li>Harry Ackland British & English Age Group Record (100m Breaststroke)</li> <li>Alexander Gregory Welsh Junior Record (200m Breaststroke)</li> <li>Franziska Reppe South West of England Junior Record (50m Butterfly)</li> <li>Jon Rudd Great Britain selection (Coach) for European Championships (Budapest) 2010</li> </ul>   Plymouth College elite swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 16, has added the 100m breaststroke British title to her 50m breaststroke title and secured her place to swim for Great Britain and England respectively in the European Championships and Commonwealth Games later this year. European Championships and Commonwealth Games for Achieng - 6/4/10European Championships and Commonwealth Games for Achieng - 6/4/1002786 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 16, has added the 100m breaststroke British title to her 50m breaststroke title and secured her place to swim for Great Britain and England respectively in the European Championships and Commonwealth Games later this year. The clear victory and personal best of 1:08.51 in the 100m at the British Swimming Championships held in Sheffield came just a few days after Achieng won her first-ever British title in the 50m and the announcement that she will no longer swim for Kenya - the dual-nationality athlete will represent Great Britain for the first time at the European Championships in Budapest in August followed by a swim for England at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October. Plymouth College elite swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, has won gold at the British Swimming Championships in Sheffield. Achieng is British Swimming Champion - 31/3/10Achieng is British Swimming Champion - 31/3/1002784 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, has won gold at the British Swimming Championships in Sheffield.  The 16-year-old secured her victory in the women's 50 metre breaststroke in a time of 31.18 seconds. Part of the highly-acclaimed Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander Swimming Programme, Achieng has just announced she is changing nationality from Kenyan to British - she has a Kenyan father and a British mother. Last summer the talented Year 11 pupil swam for Kenya in the World Championships and won a gold medal for Great Britain in the World Schools' Games in the autumn. Fellow Plymouth College pupil and elite swimmer, David Gregory, won a bronze medal in the men's 50m backstroke. Three swimmers from Plymouth College have won gold medals for English Schools at the 39th WISE Home Nations International held in Glasgow. Swimmers win gold medals for England - 29/3/10Swimmers win gold medals for England - 29/3/1002778 Three swimmers from Plymouth College have won gold medals for English Schools at the 39th WISE Home Nations International held in Glasgow.  Competing against the top swimmers from Wales, Scotland and Ireland, Joe Patching (16) picked up two gold medals for England winning the 200m IM (2:09.46) and 100m backstroke (59.06) in the intermediate event.  In the junior competition, Harry Ackland (14) won gold for England in the 100m breaststroke (1:08.75) while Jack Smith (14) claimed gold in the 100m backstroke (1:02.40). All three boys are part of the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme. Photograph L to R: Harry Ackland, Joe Patching, Jack Smith. The U11 netball team at Plymouth College Preparatory School have won the Exeter School Tournament for the third year in a row.U11s win netball tournament for third year running - 25/3/10U11s win netball tournament for third year running - 25/3/1002771 The U11 netball team at Plymouth College Preparatory School have won the Exeter School Tournament for the third year in a row. In the pool stages the girls beat Queens Taunton, Exeter School, Stover and Exeter Cathedral.  They then went on to beat West Buckland in the semi-final. Playing Maynards in the final, the Exeter-based school was two goals up at half time.  But with a superb effort from the Plymouth girls, they pulled the score back going 3-2 ahead with just minutes to go.  However, Maynards managed to get one final goal in the net just before the whistle went leading to a 3-3 draw. Throughout the tournament, Natasha Spiers and Lauren Reed did a superb job in defence making the opposition work really hard to get the ball to the goal circle.  Harmony Rump, Naomi Ryan, Freya Soper and Libby Day were on top form sharing the shooting for Plymouth. "The team were on fire!", said PE teacher, Sue Butcher.  "They were full of determination and really deserved to win the tournament for a third time." Myles Pillage (12), Alex Pillage (12) and James Murphy (11) have been crowned Year 7 boys’ champions in the British Schools’ Biathlon Championships. Plymouth College boys are British Schools’ Biathlon Champions - 23/3/10Plymouth College boys are British Schools’ Biathlon Champions - 23/3/1002756 Myles Pillage (12), Alex Pillage (12) and James Murphy (11) have been crowned Year 7 boys' champions in the British Schools' Biathlon Championships.  Winning the 50m swim and coming second in the 500m run, Myles also claimed the individual champion title.  The prestigious event was held at Crystal Palace.  With all three boys achieving personal best times in the run, they scored a total of 9012 points between them to beat Whitgift School into second place (9000 points) and Kelly College into third place (8832 points). The competition is organised by Pentathlon GB. Thousands of children from schools around the country take part in the championships with categories for boys and girls from Year 5 up to Sixth Form.  The boys were one of eight teams in their year group to qualify for the national final after winning the South West event last term. "I am delighted that the boys have won the British Schools' title", said Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill.  "They had been training really well leading up to the competition and it is great that all their hard work has paid off.  For Myles to be the individual champion is the icing on the cake." Photo:  L to R James Murphy, Myles Pillage, Alex Pillage Not content with winning the Devon Cup and the Plymouth College 7s tournament, Plymouth College U15s are continuing their winning streak by taking the West Devon 7s title.West Devon win for Plymouth College U15s - 15/3/10West Devon win for Plymouth College U15s - 15/3/1002751 Not content with winning the Devon Cup and the Plymouth College 7s tournament, Plymouth College U15s are continuing their winning streak by taking the West Devon 7s title. Plymouth sailed through the pool matches with victories over Ridgeway (43-0), Stoke Damerel (33-0) and Plymstock (28-5).  In the semi-final against Ivybridge, two tries from Joe Martin and one from Ollie Cleneghan secured a 17-7 win. Facing Kelly College in the final, Plymouth ran out a fairly comfortable win with an end score of 27-7.  The team now qualify for the Devon 7s final later this month. <img src="/media/36780/u15-west-devon-7s.jpg" width="400" height="308" alt="U15 West Devon 7s 1"/> With light drizzle giving way to spring sunshine, Newnham Park was the perfect setting for the whole school cross-country event. Chaytors take cross-country crown…again! - 16/3/10Chaytors take cross-country crown…again! - 16/3/1002747 With light drizzle giving way to spring sunshine, Newnham Park was the perfect setting for the whole school cross-country event.  New for Plymouth College, the course was a mix of open field and woodland trails, with a few hills thrown in for good measure.  Pupils ran either 2.3 km (Years 7 and 8), 3 km (Years 9 and 10) or 4.6 km (Year 11 and Sixth Form). Chaytors (blue) stepped up to the mark and claimed the highly-coveted Lang Cup for the second year running.  Improving on their fourth place finish last year, Sargents (green) were the runners-up with Dales (yellow) in third and Palmers (red) in fourth. In the seniors' 4.6 km race, Tom Turner (Year 11) was first home in a time of 17.15 narrowly beating Henry Turpin (Upper Sixth) into second place (17.16). Poppy Le Marechal (Lower Sixth) clocked 19.59 to be the first girl home.  Ben Jackson was the first Lower Sixth boy (17.40) and Susannah Kellagher was the first Upper Sixth girl (20.16).  Anneliese Noakes took the Year 11 girls' title finishing in 24.18.  <img src="/media/36697/xcountry1.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="XCountry1"/> At intermediate level, Dominic Day (Year 9) took the top spot in the 3 km race finishing in 14.32.   Emily Dinnis (Year 9) was the first girl in a time of 15.56.  Ollie Clenaghan (14.45) and Alice Rogers (17.17) took the Year 10 titles. The juniors covered 2.3 km, which saw Steven Rogers (Year 7) first past the post in 8.33.   Harriet Mitchell (Year 7) was the winning girl in a time of 9.30.  Sahila (9.14) and Annabel Norris (11.53) were the first boy and first girl home for Year 8. Retired teacher, Graham Lang, who coached the school cross-country team for many years, presented the individual medals and the Lang Cup.  The event was organized by Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn. <img src="/media/36707/xcountry3.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="XCountry3"/> "Newnham Park is a spectacular setting and I'm delighted with how the race went", said Sarah.   "The weather was kind to us, which was a huge relief, and it was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and energy of everyone coming together for a whole school event." <img src="/media/36702/xcountry2_496x200.jpg" width="496" height="200" alt="XCountry2"/> Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews, has won the latest round of the U13 Leon Paul National Ranking Epeé Championships.Second national ranking win for fencer - 11/3/10Second national ranking win for fencer - 11/3/1002730 Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews, has won the latest round of the U13 Leon Paul National Ranking Epeé Championships.  The event was held in Manchester. Tim has now won the first two rounds and remains undefeated in his last 31 fights.  He currently tops the rankings in his age group. Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil and tetrathlete, Annie Crocker (10), has come away with no less than five trophies at the North West Tetrathlon held in Lancaster. Five trophies and national final qualification for Annie - 9/3/10Five trophies and national final qualification for Annie - 9/3/1002728 Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil and tetrathlete, Annie Crocker (10), has come away with no less than five trophies at the North West Tetrathlon held in Lancaster.  She has also qualified for the national championships. Competing in the Youth E Girls category, Annie was crowned North West Tetrathlon Champion after outstanding performances in running, swimming, shooting and fencing.  She also came first in the triathlon (run, swim, shoot) and third in the biathlon (run, swim).  She picked up two further prizes for the best shoot and the best fence of the competition. Annie's achievement is all the more impressive because she has only taken up shooting, fencing and running in the last six months.  She has been swimming since she was three years old. "I am really excited to make it through to the national final", said Annie.  "I didn't expect to do so well, particularly in the fencing, which I've only be doing for just over a month!" Fellow pupil, Catherine Bishop, also aged 10, had to settle for all the 4s, coming 4th in the tetrathlon, triathlon, swim, fence and shoot. Plymouth College Preparatory School’s netball team competed against twenty five schools from as far as Worcester in the north and St Albans in the east in the IAPS West Regional Netball Tournament.Netball team puts in a good performance in IAPS tournament - 9/3/10Netball team puts in a good performance in IAPS tournament - 9/3/1002723 Plymouth College Preparatory School's netball team competed against twenty five schools from as far as Worcester in the north and St Albans in the east in the IAPS West Regional Netball Tournament. Held at Stonar School, Bath, the Plymouth A team (Natasha Spiers GD, Libby Day WA, Naomi Ryan GS, Freya Soper C GA, Harmony Rump GA C, Freya Lam WD, Lauren Reed GK, Alice Simmonds GS, Lizzy Ham WD GD and Tommy Eyston WD GK) had a good start beating Kings Hall 5-4. The next match was against St Gabriel's and although the team was getting the ball into the shooting circle, the shots would not go in. The final score was a 1-1 draw. Dean Close was a much tougher match, but the girls raised their game and the shots were on target, seeing them secure a second win with 7-6. Unfortunately concentration slipped against Stonar and a few wild passes gave the opposition the lead with Plymouth losing 0-2. This set back stuck with the girls for the next game and with the knowledge that Hazelgrove had not dropped a match, Plymouth struggled to gain any advantage. The match was lost 1-8. Clifton College was also playing well so after a refuel on dried fruit, and with renewed determination, the girls stepped their netball up a gear.  It paid off with Plymouth winning 3-1. Bristol Grammar was next but Plymouth was on a roll, executing fabulous interceptions from the defence and winning 4-1. The early losses put Plymouth in a precarious position and the match against Kings Hawford, Worcester, would decide who went through to the final. It was a tense match with a lot of mistakes but fabulous interceptions from both sides. The final score was 2-2 a draw, which meant Plymouth just missed out on a place in the final and had to settle for 4th in the section and 7th overall in the tournament. The team was very disappointed not to go through to the national event but 7th in the West of England is a very worthwhile result and stands among the best the school has achieved since Ellie Gates and Megan Thompson were heading the team four years ago. <img src="/media/36461/freya-and-alice-moving-into.jpg" width="371" height="400" alt="IAPS Netball2"/> Plymouth College has had seven girls selected to play hockey for Devon.Seven girls get Devon hockey call-up - 9/3/10Seven girls get Devon hockey call-up - 9/3/100 Plymouth College has had seven girls selected to play hockey for Devon. Leanne Moore and Nada Khalil have been selected for the U14 team, Hettie Burrows and Chloe Parford for the U15s, while Sarah Jeffery, Georgia Hall and Julia Hayes are playing in county colours at U17 level.  Julia is also the captain of the Devon girls' hockey team. Plymouth College 1st Vll shooters, Julia Hayes and Megan Palmer, have scored exactly 200 goals between them so far this season. Netball team shoots 200 goals! - 9/3/10 Netball team shoots 200 goals! - 9/3/1002718 Plymouth College 1st Vll shooters, Julia Hayes and Megan Palmer, have scored exactly 200 goals between them so far this season.  Captained by Megan, the team is having one of its best seasons for many years and has only lost (narrowly) two games.  The wins have often been by large margins and include West Buckland, Shebbear, Trinity, Torquay Girls, Truro High and Blundell's. Much of the improvement is credited to coach, Karen Dent, who works with all the school's netball teams. Plymouth College elite swimmer, Christian Homer, has set a new 15-17 national record for Trinidad and Tobago in the 50-metre backstroke at the Internationales High Point Meeting in Zurich, Switzerland.National swimming record for Christian - 4/3/10National swimming record for Christian - 4/3/1002707 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Christian Homer, has set a new 15-17 national record for Trinidad and Tobago in the 50-metre backstroke at the Internationales High Point Meeting in Zurich, Switzerland. Swimming for Plymouth Leander, Christian clocked 26.82 seconds and claimed a silver medal in the race.  He repeated the silver spot in the 50-metre butterfly, 100-metre butterfly and 4x100 medley relay but went one step further in the 4x100 freestyle relay where his team picked up a gold medal. Christian, who is a boarder at Plymouth College and is part of the school's highly-acclaimed swimming programme partnership with Plymouth Leander, is no stranger to representing his country.  Last summer he swam for Trinidad and Tobago in the World Championships in Rome and has now qualified for five events in the inaugural 2010 Youth Olympic Games being held in Singapore in August.  The Plymouth College Equestrian team is continuing its successful campaign on the national stage by qualifying for the NSEA Jumping with Style Championships. Equestrian team qualifies for national championships - 3/3/10Equestrian team qualifies for national championships - 3/3/1002705 The Plymouth College Equestrian team is continuing its successful campaign on the national stage by qualifying for the NSEA Jumping with Style Championships.  Morwenna Moore, Emily Dinnis and Sammy Cotton qualified by coming second in the regional round held at Millfield School. Out of the seven teams that entered the competition, Plymouth College was the only one to post three clear rounds, with just five time penalties between its riders.  As well, the Plymouth team only had three members - teams with four riders could discard their worst score. After style marks were added, Plymouth College accumulated 41 points, finishing  second to Millfield and securing qualification to the National Championships, which are being held at Addington, Buckinghamshire in December.  In other equestrian news, Plymouth College's inaugural Schools' Team Combined Training Competition is taking place on 27th March.  Run in conjunction with Foxworthy Beacon Riding Club, the event is being held at Newnham Park, Plympton.  Combined Training consists of two phases - the first round is dressage followed by showjumping for the second round.  This competition is the first of its kind for schools in the South West.  Further information is available from Sharon Lambie on 01752 203245 or <a href="mailto:slambie@plymouthcollege.com">slambie@plymouthcollege.com</a> Photograph L to R Sammy Cotton, Emily Dinnis, Morwenna Moore Plymouth College Under 15s carried their impressive fifteen-aside form into the sevens season by winning the Plymouth College tournament held at Delgany. Under 15s win Plymouth College Sevens Tournament - 3/3/10Under 15s win Plymouth College Sevens Tournament - 3/3/100 Plymouth College Under 15s carried their impressive fifteen-aside form into the sevens season by winning the Plymouth College tournament held at Delgany.  The tournament, which dates back to 1971, follows a round robin league programme and was contested by teams from Truro School, Ivybridge Community College, Kelly College, Bristol-based Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the hosts, Plymouth College. Plymouth won their opening game against Truro (winners of last year's Under 14 competition), before going on to secure hard-fought victories against Ivybridge and QEH.  This left the team needing to secure a victory over Kelly in the final match to ensure overall victory in the competition.  They managed to achieve this with a 47-15 victory, a flattering score especially after Kelly had scored two runaway tries just after half time. Plymouth College fly half, Henry Slade, 16, has been selected for the U17 England rugby team.England rugby team for Henry - 22/2/10England rugby team for Henry - 22/2/1002680 Plymouth College fly half, Henry Slade, 16, has been selected for the U17 England rugby team.  His place on the national squad comes close on the heels of playing in both the Devon and South West U18 teams. The selection trial was an inter-regional tournament at Cokethorpe School in Oxfordshire, which saw the South West team come out on top.  Henry's first match in England colours is 7th March, when the U17 team play the U16 team. "I'm really excited and honoured to be chosen to play for England", said Henry.  "I've gone from playing for my county to playing for my country in a really short space of time so it all seems a bit surreal at the moment.  I can't wait for our first match." Plymouth College head of rugby, Richard Edwards, said: "I am absolutely delighted for Henry.  Making the England team is a fantastic achievement and I'm sure he will make his school and family very proud."  Plymouth College runners, Poppy Tank, Steven Rogers and Emily Ackford will compete in the South West Crosscountry Championships after qualifying in the Devon competition. Three runners qualify for South West Crosscountry Championships - 18/2/10Three runners qualify for South West Crosscountry Championships - 18/2/1002335 Plymouth College runners, Poppy Tank (pictured), Steven Rogers and Emily Ackford will compete in the South West Crosscountry Championships after qualifying in the Devon competition.  To qualify, Poppy came 3rd in her age group race, Steven 4th and Emily 5th - the top 6 in each race went through to the South West event, which takes place at the end of February. World Champion rower and Olympic silver medallist, Miriam Batten, has held a mentoring workshop at Plymouth College for its elite athletes and their support teams.World and Olympic rower mentors Plymouth College athletes - 18/2/10World and Olympic rower mentors Plymouth College athletes - 18/2/1002677 World Champion rower and Olympic silver medallist, Miriam Batten, has held a mentoring workshop at Plymouth College for its elite athletes and their support teams. With the 2012 Olympics as the focus, Miriam talked to the school's top swimmers and modern pentathletes about setting short, medium and long term goals, keeping focussed and getting the right balance in their academic, sporting and personal lives. She also held a session with coaches and pastoral staff, looking at how they could better support the young athletes and improve communication with teaching staff. "We were exploring goals, in particular sporting dream goals", said Miriam.  "These may range from winning the next competition to an Olympic gold medal.  Dream goals can only be achieved with determination and huge amounts of hard work.  Often the most talented are not the most determined.  "I got the young athletes to test their determination and look at what makes up mental toughness.  We discussed the reasons why top sportsmen such as Chris Hoy and Steve Redgrave realise their talent and win so many medals while other hopefuls do not.  "Planning is also crucial, as a goal without a plan is unlikely to come to fruition.  The young athletes need to understand the value of education so that they can realise not just their sporting goals but goals for life after sport as well.  This means planning for the long term and making informed choices now." World Schools Games gold medallist and elite swimmer, David Gregory, said: "Miriam made us think for ourselves and gave great advice on how to plan our lives and achieve goals.  I've come away from the session with a much better focus on how to get where I want to." GB fencer and modern pentathlete, Georgina Barrington, said: "The session with Miriam was really constructive and I see how it is much easier to keep focussed if you have a proper written plan to follow.  I can already see ways in which I can improve my training but she also made me think about making sure I get enough sleep and eat the right food in order to perform to the best of my ability." Several new Plymouth College basketball players had their first ‘blooding’ in a double-header against Wellington School.Double-slammy for Plymouth College - 12/2/10Double-slammy for Plymouth College - 12/2/100 Several new Plymouth College basketball players had their first 'blooding' in a double-header against Wellington School. The senior boys were first on court, with coach Mr Robinson aiming to field as many of the regular players as possible.  Substitutes flowed on and off at speed to keep the brakes on what could have been a runaway match. Plymouth let convincingly from the end of the first quarter with a half time score of 16-6 firmly putting them in the lead.  The second half saw all of the squad scoring freely from set-plays, notably an efficient one-three-one attack.  However, Wellington found space inside the Plymouth defence and regained some ground but that didn't stop Plymouth rookies, Tom Turner and Michael Lin, scoring their first baskets at senior level.  Captain Aidan Law, Jake Luffman, Sam Ng, Jeff Ma, Abdullah Hamza, Oli Foster and Michael Haley all added to the tally from field goals or the free-throw line.  The game ended on an impressive 28-12 to Plymouth College. Not be outdone by her male counterparts, Katharina Mager captained the girls to their first ever victory.  At the end of a very tight first quarter the score settled on 4-4.  But the Plymouth girls' persistent attack and sound passing routine found space inside a solid Wellington defence pushing the score to 6-4 in Plymouth's favour by half time.  Their recently developed attacking strategy paid dividends as the girls drew steadily ahead in the second half to 8-6 and with two convincing driving moves to the basket, they finished off in style on 14-8.  Scorers were Pauline Pfaff (6), Katharina Mager (6) and Catriona Walpole (2).  Julia Hestermann, Danica Gamble, Mirian Goezze, Camilla Knoche and Maria Thaller all ably supported Plymouth's reliable passing game. The 1st, 2nd, U15, U13 and U12 netball team all came away victorious from their netball matches against Shebbear this weekend. Five netball wins against Shebbear - 11/2/10Five netball wins against Shebbear - 11/2/1002661 The 1st, 2nd, U15, U13 and U12 netball teams all came away victorious from their netball matches against Shebbear this weekend.  Coach driver error meant that the four away matches started nearly an hour late but that just seemed to spark the Plymouth teams into action. Captained by Megan Palmer, the 1st team game was fast-paced and competitive.  After an hour of exhilarating play Plymouth emerged the winners with 42 goals to 24.  Their victory follows on from equally impressive wins against West Buckland (22-20) and Torquay Girls Grammar (20-6). The 2nd team, captained by Katherine Moiser, cruised to a relatively easy victory winning by 22 goals to 13.  Other good wins for the team so far this season have been against Stover (22-12) and Exeter (19-5). The U13s and U12s also won their matches by fair margins.  The U13s beat a tall Shebbear side 16-6 with the U12s producing a very good display of tactics and ability, winning 18-7.  At home the U15s also won.  Trailing until the last quarter, a tactorial team change led to a turn in fortune and the final score was 19 goals to 17 in Plymouth's favour. Photograph: 1st and 2nd netball teams. Plymouth College Preparatory School pupils Ollie Piper and Alice Avens, both aged 10, have just returned from the Endhoven Cup, a national open diving event held in Holland. Young divers compete in Holland - 11/2/10Young divers compete in Holland - 11/2/1002659 Plymouth College Preparatory School pupils Ollie Piper and Alice Avens, both aged 10, have just returned from the Endhoven Cup, a national open diving event held in Holland.  Members of Plymouth diving, they were competing against some of the top age group divers in Europe. Diving for two years, Ollie's best result was 9th place in the 3 metre event - he was competing against 40 other divers.  He came 10th in the platform category (5 metres and 7 metres) and 12th in the 1 metre competition where there were 50-60 other divers.  This was his sixth competition and he has previously dived 'overseas' in Dublin. Alice has only been diving for a year but she finished in a respectable 19th place in the 3 metre event and 20th in the 1 metre event.  Both categories had about 35 divers taking part.  This was her fourth competition and her first abroad. "The competition was really good fun and I shared a room with girls from other nationalities", said Alice.  "I really enjoy diving and although I sometimes get scared when learning a new dive, it's a great feeling when you've had a good session and done a new dive well." Ollie and Alice take part in their next competition at half term in Plymouth. Plymouth retained the title they won last year with a very successful campaign at a bitterly cold Kelly College. Plymouth College wins Kelly 10s...again! - 11/2/10Plymouth College wins Kelly 10s...again! - 11/2/1002689 The Plymouth College rugby team have retained the title they've won for the last two years with a very successful campaign at a bitterly cold Kelly College.  The College opened their account with a comfortable win against Tavistock College before going on to beat Queen Elizabeth and an invitational Barbarians team.  This meant that Plymouth topped their pool and were set to play the winners of the other pool, current Devon 15 and 7 a-side holders, Exeter School. The final was a terrific match with Plymouth showing great composure and stubborn defence.  A well worked try put Plymouth 5 points to the good and it would be fair to say that the better side led at half time.  With the result by no means a foregone conclusion, Plymouth applied the pressure and a try by Henry Slade, also converted by Slade, put the College 12 points clear. Plymouth controlled the game until the last minutes when sustained possession from Exeter allowed them to score with the final play of the game. There was little doubt though that Plymouth deserved the title and the performances of the whole squad are worthy of praise.  Good attitude and approach were present throughout the day and captain, Jamie O'Gallagher, and Vice-Captain, Alex Smith, led through example.  This was a young squad with 13 of the squad due to be playing again next season.  Final opponents Exeter have had their finest season for many years and their only defeats came at the hands of Plymouth, firstly in the regular season in 15-a-side by a single point and during the Kelly 10s final. Plymouth also performed well at the recent Millfield Sevens reaching the final after impressive wins over Blundell's, Bruton, Millfield IIs and Ysgol Glantaf.  They lost in a well-contested final to a very talented and pacy Millfield First VII.  The College are now set to contest the Welsh Invitational Sevens at Brecon on 21st February and the Marches Sevens at Hereford on the 28th February. The Plymouth College swimming team has clinched six titles in the English Schools Swimming Association Team Championships 2010 held in Coventry. Plymouth College is top swimming school in the country for third year running - 10/2/10Plymouth College is top swimming school in the country for third year running - 10/2/1002663 The Plymouth College swimming team has clinched six titles in the English Schools Swimming Association Team Championships 2010 held in Coventry.  The team also holds six of the 12 national records. The intermediate girls - Franziska Reppe, Hannah Schulz, Laura Hudson, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell - won the 4x50m freestyle and medley relays, breaking the record in the medley first in the heats and again in the final in a time of 2:02.68. The intermediate boys - Oliver Leonard, Jordan Sharples, Joe Patching, Callum Murphy, Alexander Gregory - won the 4x50m freestyle and medley relays each time about four seconds ahead of runners-up, Millfield. The senior boys - Jonathan Hill, Sam Straughan, Dan Sweeney, Christian Homer, James Young - won the 4x50m freestyle and medley relays, breaking the national record in the final of the medley in a time of 1:47.37. In the other events the junior boys took second place in the medley and fourth in the freestyle relays, while the senior girls secured second place in the medley and third in the freestyle relays.  Plymouth College did not have a junior girls team at this event. "The team put in outstanding performances", said teacher in charge of swimming, Clive Hambly.  "To win the most titles for the third year running really does cement Plymouth College's position as the top swimming school in the country.  The school already held six national records going into the competition and some of the records broken this time round were ones we'd already set in previous years." World diver and Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has taken the silver medal in the 10m platform final at the British Gas National Cup. Silver medal for diver Tom - 8/2/10Silver medal for diver Tom - 8/2/1002653 World diver and Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has taken the silver medal in the 10m platform final at the British Gas National Cup.  Held at Sheffield's Ponds Forge, Tom was runner-up to 2004 Olympic silver medallist, Peter Waterfield. His first major competition since becoming World Champion last summer, Tom finished 40 points behind Waterfield on 483.60.  Despite his slight disappointment at not clinching the gold, Tom was delighted to score 8.5s with his new dive - the back 2.5 somersaults with 2.5 twists. The U13 boys’ hockey team got the season off to a triumphant start with a 7-0 win over Torquay Grammar School.Outstanding win for boys’ hockey team - 5/2/10Outstanding win for boys’ hockey team - 5/2/1002650 The U13 boys' hockey team got the season off to a triumphant start with a 7-0 win over Torquay Grammar School. Despite the bad weather, Plymouth College dominated from the start.  The home match saw excellent performances all round with captain, Ben Pearson, scoring four goals.  The use of formations also played a big part in the team's success - formations have recently been introduced by new coach, Matt Bell, and were used for the first time in this match. The team hope to repeat their winning performance in their next match against Truro. The Plymouth College U15 rugby team have retained their Devon Cup title after beating Exeter School 15-5 at Teignmouth.U15s lift Devon Cup for second year running - 29/1/10U15s lift Devon Cup for second year running - 29/1/1002645 The Plymouth College U15 rugby team have retained their Devon Cup title after beating Exeter School 15-5 at Teignmouth. Plymouth started the stronger side scoring two opening tries through Joe Martin and Billy Patching.  Despite the score Exeter were looking dangerous throughout, running the ball from any position.  A prolonged period of pressure saw them score a try. After the break both sides continued to play expansive rugby until Plymouth Captain, Tom Mumford, burrowed over to finally give his team a bit of breathing space.  As the light dimmed both teams put everything in to breaking through defences one final time but to no avail. The Devon win concludes a fantastic season for the Plymouth team who have won all but one game, scoring 606 points and only conceding 59. The Plymouth College second netball team pulled out all the stops in their first match of the term to secure a confident win over Exeter School.Netball team walk away with victory over Exeter - 25/1/10Netball team walk away with victory over Exeter - 25/1/1002620 The Plymouth College second netball team pulled out all the stops in their first match of the term to secure a confident win over Exeter School.  Dominating their opponents from the start, the Plymouth College team won all four quarters ending the game on an impressive 19 goals to 9.  Player of the match was Annabel Wigginton. Also playing Exeter, the first netball team failed to match the success of the seconds.  After a slow start, Plymouth College were in the lead by three goals by the end of the third quarter.  However, an intense final quarter saw Exeter nudge ahead with a final score of 27-25. Georgina Barrington, 17, has been selected for the senior British epeé team for next month’s World Cup tournament in Spain. The Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar will compete in Barcelona against some of the best fencers in the world.Fencer gets first call-up to senior GB squad - 14/1/10Fencer gets first call-up to senior GB squad - 14/1/1002606 Georgina Barrington, 17, has been selected for the senior British epeé team for next month's World Cup tournament in Spain.  The Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar will compete in Barcelona against some of the best fencers in the world. No stranger to representing her country, Georgina is also fencing for the Great Britain Cadet and Junior team in Gothenburg, Sweden, a couple of weeks before the World event.  She is currently 10th in the senior UK rankings and sixth in the juniors. "I am really excited to be part of the senior GB team in Barcelona", said Georgina.  "Because of my age there is no pressure on me but I will do the very best I can and make the most of my experience, watching and learning from the other fencers when I'm not competing." Plymouth College elite swimmers, David Gregory and Achieng Ajulu Bushell, have won gold medals for Great Britain in the World Schools’ Games in Doha, Qatar.Swimmers are World Schools’ Swimming Champions - 10/12/09Swimmers are World Schools’ Swimming Champions - 10/12/0902292 Plymouth College elite swimmers, David Gregory and Achieng Ajulu Bushell, have won gold medals for Great Britain in the World Schools' Games in Doha, Qatar. David won the boys' 200m backstroke in a time of 2:02.20, a new Games record.  Achieng, who was recently voted one of the top five Female African Swimmers of the Year, won the girls' 50m breaststroke in a time of 30.73 seconds, which is only 0.5 seconds outside the actual World Record. The two swimmers are part of a team of 24 representing UK schools, which includes four other swimmers from Plymouth College.  The global competition takes place every three years and is the biggest international sporting event for schools. Plymouth College director of swimming, Jon Rudd, said: "This is a fantastic result for David and Achieng.  The Games is the biggest schools' event in the world and to win here is truly outstanding.  This success is another stepping stone in their pursuit of selection to the 2012 London Olympics swimming squad." Photograph: David Gregory (far left) and Achieng Ajulu Bushell (far right) with the other Plymouth College swimmers selected for the Games and their coach, Lyndsay Dunn (centre). Myles Pillage, Alex Pillage and James Murphy scored 8808 points, beating Kelly College into second place, to win the Year 7 Boys’ title in the South West Biathlon Championships. Plymouth College athletes are SW Biathlon Champions - 9/12/09Plymouth College athletes are SW Biathlon Champions - 9/12/0902552 Alex Pillage, James Murphy and Myles Pillage (right) scored 8808 points, beating Kelly College into second place, to win the Year 7 Boys' title in the South West Biathlon Championships.  With 3176 points, Myles was crowned the individual champion after coming top in both the swim and the run.  The boys are now waiting for confirmation that they have qualified for the British Championships in March.  The top eight teams from the UK go forward to the national event and with ten out of twelve regional events now complete, Plymouth College is currently ranked first in the country.  Myles also has the top spot nationally and has a 72 point advantage over the current second-placed athlete. In the Year 10 Girls' category, Alice Rogers came 3rd with 2002 points and is currently ranked 7th nationally. Year 7 pupils, Ewan Gare and Billy Goord, both aged 11, have been awarded junior black belts in karate.Karate black belts for Ewan and Billy - 7/12/09Karate black belts for Ewan and Billy - 7/12/0902540 Year 7 pupils, Ewan Gare and Billy Goord, both aged 11, have been awarded junior black belts in karate. Members of the Master St James Academy in Plymouth since they were six years old, the boys had to do 500 kicks off each leg in 20 minutes and accurately execute a combination of moves to pass the black belt test. They train 2-3 times a week and take part in a number of local competitions.  They are now working towards their green, bronze, silver and gold stars. The U12s have had a fantastic season so far, remaining unbeaten after matches against Mount House, Kelly, Exeter and West Buckland. Good season for girls’ hockey - 26/11/09Good season for girls’ hockey - 26/11/0902515 The U12s have had a fantastic season so far, remaining unbeaten after matches against Mount House, Kelly, Exeter and West Buckland. It has been a bit more difficult for the U13s with results not going their way but they have put in some spirited performances. However, the U14s are a very strong team with a committed approach, winning the West Devon finals and coming third in the Devon finals. They have also seen many fine wins against Torquay Girls' Grammar School, Kelly College, Shebbear and Kingsley. The Under 15s have developed into a good team, putting in spirited performances. They have had some excellent matches; one to mention was a 2-2 draw with Kelly College. As always, the U16s are a very strong age group, winning the West Devon finals and coming third in the Devon finals. The senior squads (1st XI pictured above) have also represented the school well, playing some super hockey, which many women's league teams would be proud of. Excellent results and performances were against West Buckland, Shebbear, Stover, Blundell's and Kelly.  Further to his selection to the Devon rugby team along with three other team mates, Plymouth College 1st XV player, Henry Slade, has made it through to the South West squad. South West squad for Henry - 20/11/09South West squad for Henry - 20/11/0902507 Further to his selection to the Devon rugby team along with three other team mates, Plymouth College 1st XV player, Henry Slade, has made it through to the South West squad.  "This is a really great achievement for Henry" said Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards.  "It is difficult enough to get on the county team so to be chosen for the regional squad is really outstanding." Plymouth College first XV progressed to the fifth round of the Daily Mail Cup with a well-executed victory over Truro school, gaining revenge on them after they had beaten Plymouth earlier in the season. Plymouth College: 14 Truro School: 6 - 16/11/09Plymouth College: 14 Truro School: 6 - 16/11/0902503 Daily Mail Cup Plymouth College first XV progressed to the fifth round of the Daily Mail Cup with a well-executed victory over Truro school, gaining revenge on them after they had beaten Plymouth earlier in the season. The first half was dominated by Plymouth and after Truro missed an early penalty, Henry Slade stepped up and kept his cool to slot a penalty of his own, making the score 3-0. Soon after, George Stephenson scored a brilliant try from the lineout, with Henry unable to make the kick. Truro pulled a penalty back to make it 8-3 before Slade again kicked a penalty to restore the 8-point lead going into half time, 11-3. The second half saw little incident, other than the two kickers exchange a penalty each. Plymouth defended soundly and deservedly held on to their 14-6 lead until the final whistle. Plymouth now go on to the quarter finals. <img src="/media/33835/pc v truro dm1.jpg" width="285" height="159" alt="PC V Truro DM1"/> On a very cold, wet Saturday afternoon, six teams represented Plymouth College against local rivals Kelly College, with all six teams coming out on top.Plymouth College V Kelly College - 13/11/09Plymouth College V Kelly College - 13/11/0902500 On a very cold, wet Saturday afternoon, six teams represented Plymouth College against local rivals Kelly College, with all six teams coming out on top. The First team put in a very good performance and deservedly came out as winners, the score being 20-0, with tries coming from Olly Eccles and Charlie Maidment, who grabbed his second try in two matches. Two Henry Slade conversions and two further penalties from Slade concluded the scoring. The first team have now only lost two fixtures all season and are through to the next rounds of the Daily Mail and Devon Cup. The Second Team continued in their winning ways, easily beating their opposition 22-0. Plymouth dominated large periods of the game, attacking well, and defending strongly where it was needed. A great chip and chase try from Joe Marshall was undoubtedly the pick of the tries, and others were scored by Tom Oates and Jon Hall, who scored two. One Joe Marshall conversion added to his points tally for the day. The seconds have still only lost one match this season and boast one of the best records in the school. The Under 15s (above, right) have still not lost a Saturday fixture this season. This came after another fine performance against a poor Kelly side. The game had to be stopped 15 minutes early after Plymouth again passed the 50 point barrier, with Kelly failing to put any points on the board. The final score was an impressive 52-0, with tries coming from Callum Cload, George Haslam, two from Ollie Clenaghan, two from Jamie Wace, Sean Lochhead and Joe Martin. Captain Tom Mumford managed to convert six of these tries. The Under 14s also had a very good win. They put in a very dogged performance in the pouring rain, with everyone working extremely hard to fight for a well-earned victory. The Under 13s also had a fine victory, winning 15-7. They were really up for this game against our local rivals and the boys stepped up to the challenge. They all showed the required character and fight for a match of this magnitude. Dom Mulberry produced some ferocious tackling, leaving the opposition number ten scared to get the ball. Aaron Richards, who might not have the size, but definitely the heart of a lion, ran direct and attacking lines at the opposition's back line. The forwards rucked mercilessly and did not give Kelly's forwards a sniff of the ball in the contact zones. The mobility of Ben Pearson and Jeremy Eason was a key factor all afternoon. It was good to welcome back Dan Cummings after a month lay-off through injury. The only disappointment is that despite having Kelly on the ropes for long periods, they failed to be clinical enough to convert all our chances. The U12s (below) concluded a brilliant day for Plymouth College with a great victory over their Kelly counterparts, winning a very tight fixture. <img src="/media/33798/u12 nov 09.jpg" width="298" height="205" alt="U12 Kelly"/> Despite challenging weather conditions, Plymouth College Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn, has clinched a gold medal in the World Coastal Rowing Championships held in Plymouth.Deputy Head steers rowing team to world championship victory! - 5/11/09Deputy Head steers rowing team to world championship victory! - 5/11/0902487 Despite challenging weather conditions, Plymouth College Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn, has clinched a gold medal in the World Coastal Rowing Championships held in Plymouth. Winning the women's quads race, Sarah was coxswain of the Thames Rowing Club team.  Hosted by Mayflower Offshore Rowing Club, the event involved nearly 270 crews from around the world and saw men and women competing in single, double and quad races.  Last year the global competition was held in Italy. "There were 22 boats jostling for position at the start and even though I had a team of Olympians and world champions, we were chasing the Swiss and Polish teams from an early stage", said Sarah.  "However, we battled our way around the marks and the girls doubled their efforts with a massive power surge at the Breakwater.  We also caught a couple of surf waves on the way back so we were about 400m in front by the time we crossed the finish line. "It felt amazing to win and I was extremely honoured to be part of such a talented team whose power on the water is formidable.  A truly spectacular experience." Photographs: Above right L to R - Sarah Dunn, Elise Laverick, Lenka Wech, Guin Batten, Miriam Batten.  Below - the team in action. <img src="/media/33627/sarah-d-rowing2.jpg" width="400" height="186" alt="Sarah D rowing2"/> Young swimmers will have the chance to brush up on their technique this Christmas at the Plymouth College Swimming Development Camp. Dive into swimming camp at Plymouth College - 5/11/09Dive into swimming camp at Plymouth College - 5/11/090 Young swimmers will have the chance to brush up on their technique this Christmas at the Plymouth College Swimming Development Camp. The non-residential camp runs from 28th to 30th December and is open to boys and girls aged nine to 14 years old.   Designed for competitive swimmers, the camp is run by internationally-renowned coaches Jon Rudd and Amanda Booth, who are also head coaches of Plymouth Leander.  In addition, Jon has been the Plymouth College Director of Swimming since 2006 and manages the school's elite Swimming Programme. The three day camp is a mix of pool, land and classroom sessions based on the principles and practices followed by British age group and youth teams. The camp is often split into two groups depending on age and ability to ensure that all swimmers get the most out of the camp.  "We have been running successful swimming development camps at Plymouth College since 2002", said Jon.  "First-class swimming and dry land facilities, together with tailored coaching programmes, helps to maximise the potential of the young swimmers that attend.  Many pools are closed at this time of the year so the camp allows the swimmers to continue training and get ahead of the game for 2010." The cost is £150 and includes refreshments and a buffet lunch each day.  The menu is specially created to ensure all the right nutritional needs for swimmers are satisfied. For further details and to book a place, please call Sheelagh Cummings on 01752 293804, e-mail scummings@plymouthcollege.com or visit the facilities' hire section of www.plymouthcollege.com With Half Term out of the way Plymouth College rugby teams reflect on the busy first half involving all age ranges.Plymouth College Rugby Season 2009 - Half Term Report - 3/11/09Plymouth College Rugby Season 2009 - Half Term Report - 3/11/0902483 With Half Term out of the way Plymouth College rugby teams reflect on the busy first half involving all age ranges. First XV The First XV had a good start to the season, winning 7 of their first 9 fixtures.  Victories over QEH, Exeter School and Queen's Taunton feature as highlights of the season so far.  All games have been tight and the margin of victory over Exeter (one point), QEH (two points) and Queen's (five points) are testament to the battling qualities of a young and emerging side.  The victory over Exeter was a particularly satisfying performance as they were unbeaten and strongly fancied as the form side of the region for this season.  Of the two defeats, the 8-3 loss to King's Taunton was particularly disappointing as it brought to an end the College's regular fixture unbeaten record of nearly two years.  The match was a scrappy affair, further disrupted by King's informing us on Friday night that the game would have to be played with uncontested scrums as they did not have any senior props!  Their pack of back row forwards adapted well to the unorthodox format and seemed to have a clear game plan to execute, which they did admirably.  They were clearly delighted at the final whistle and relieved that they were not on the end of an unprecedented third consecutive loss.  We look forward to next season when we entertain King's in what will hopefully be a more conventional format.  The First XV have a very busy last five weeks to the season and still remain involved in the Daily Mail and County Cup, having reached the third round and semi-final respectively of those two competitions.. Second XV The Seconds (below) are enjoying yet another successful season with their only defeat being a one point reverse against King's Taunton.  That game was very tight the College led up to the 7th minute of injury time before a succession of penalties and a last minute score resulted in King's stealing victory with the final play of the game.  QEH, Truro, Exeter and Shebbear have all been beaten, with a Truro College Rugby Academy 3rd XV also being accounted for in a thrilling 27-22 win.  Credit should go to many players with Captain Joe Marshall and Vice-Captain Jake Luffman leading by example. Third XV The Thirds have had a busy schedule, most notable for the large number of away games!  Apologies are due here from the fixture secretary and are duly offered.  Although victories have been thin on the ground, the team have been enthusiastic and well supported.  Tom Owlett continues to thrive under the experienced tutelage of the wizened Adrian Lewis and but for injuries would surely be knocking on the door of second team selection.  His desire to play at scrum-half, though, may be a little misguided! Under 15s The 15s (above, right) are the team of the season thus far and going strong in all competitions.  The 15s have built on their potential of last season and are currently unbeaten.  A good balance of mobile and energetic forwards allied to good skills behind has proved too much for all opposition so far.  The arrival of Joe Martyn has added cutting edge behind and the strong 'spine' in this team means that they are versatile and adaptable.  The victory of the season has to be the 8-7 win against King's Taunton.  King's, unbeaten as a year group since their inception last year at Under 14s, clearly believed they were good enough to roll Plymouth over.  However, steely resolve, calm under pressure and collective will saw the boys home to a most memorable win, to the delight of the home support and considerable consternation of the opposition coach.  This team has considerable potential and if they keep their feet on the ground, don't get ahead of themselves and continue to work hard, they could well continue to make an impact in the Daily Mail Cup. Under 14s The Under 14s have had a difficult season and have been unfortunate to come up against some very talented and athletic sides.   They have persevered, though, and this endeavour was rewarded with a most welcome victory against Shebbear in their most recent fixture.  Credit needs to go to the core of boys who have kept their heads up, worked hard to develop and who have focused on improving their fitness and skill levels. Under 13s The Under 13s have had a mixed season, but can reflect on some pleasing performances.  Victories have come against Tavistock College and Kingsley, but injuries to key personnel have often meant that the team have been under strength for key matches.  They should look forward to the second half of the season with optimism and with clear targets to achieve as a squad. Under 12s The Under 12s have worked well as a squad during training and are starting to gel well as a squad.  Although they have lost their opening two encounters, they have been competitive and with a bit more cohesion should go on to be successful.  The second half of the season should be very interesting and if key leading players, such as Jack Brazier, Tom Dinnis, Miles Pillage and Freddie Thompson continue to make good progress, the long term prognosis is positive. <img src="/media/33573/2nd-xv-rugby_500x128.jpg" width="500" height="128" alt="2nd XV rugby"/> Plymouth College pupil, Charles Connaris, 13, has been selected to play for the U14 South West basketball team in what will be his most important tournament to date. Lilleshall is key tournament for SW basketball player - 16/10/09Lilleshall is key tournament for SW basketball player - 16/10/0902311 Plymouth College pupil, Charles Connaris, 13, has been selected to play for the U14 South West basketball team in what will be his most important tournament to date.  The National Inter Region Tournament at Lilleshall on 24th October is jointly organised by England Basketball and English School Basketball Association.  Although not an England trial, it will be one of the first opportunities for England coaches to observe young players from ten regions as they work towards selection for the U15 England development squad in October 2010.  At the end of the tournament, a short-list of players will be commended for their performance, which although not selection, is a good indication of who is on the coaches' radar. In the meantime, all the players chosen for the Lilleshall tournament will spend the next twelve months attending monthly sessions at an Area Performance Centre (APC).  Only those players invited to attend an APC will be eligible for England selection. A keen player since he was five years old, Charles already plays for U14 Raiders and plays in an U16 summer league.  He is also a member of the Plymouth College senior basketball team. Athletes from Plymouth College’s prep and senior schools excelled at The South West *Triathlon and Fencing Championships, bringing home three golds, seven silver and two bronze medals. Seventeen qualify for national triathlon and fencing championships - 16/10/09Seventeen qualify for national triathlon and fencing championships - 16/10/0902480 Athletes from Plymouth College's prep and senior schools excelled at The South West *Triathlon and Fencing Championships, bringing home three golds, seven silver and two bronze medals.  Of the twenty one who took part, an impressive twelve triathletes qualified for the National Championships being held in Woverhampton at the end of November, and five qualified for the National Fencing Championships being held in Sheffield in February.  The Girls' Youth C and Boys' Youth D triathlon teams also qualified. Two of the four who did not qualify missed out by just one place and the other two are a year too young. Gold medals came from Myles Pillage (Boys' Youth B triathlon), Megan Woodrow (U16 fencing) and the Girls' Youth C triathlon team (Kelcey Pillage, Alice Rogers, Emily Dinnis).  Silvers went to Harriet Mitchell (Girls' Youth D triathlon), Kelcey Pillage (Girls' Youth C triathlon), Susannah Kellagher (Girls' Youth A triathlon), Georgina Barrington (U18 fencing), Katie Davies-Gregory (U16 fencing), Boys' Youth D triathlon (Myles Pillage, Alex Pillage, Freddie Thompson) and Girls' Youth E triathlon (Alice Simmonds, Annie Crocker, Catherine Bishop, Ellen Murphy) teams.  Alice Rogers (Girls' Youth C triathlon) and Sarah Ham (U16 fencing) took the bronze medals. "To have so many athletes qualify for the National Championships is incredible", said Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill.  "Everyone who took part did extremely well and I am particularly proud of the triathletes from the prep school who have only been shooting for three weeks". *Running, shooting, swimming The photograph shows some of the athletes who have qualified for National Championships Plymouth College enjoyed a successful weekend in their block of fixtures against Exeter School. Winning streak for rugby teams - 15/10/09Winning streak for rugby teams - 15/10/0902474 Plymouth College enjoyed a successful weekend in their block of fixtures against Exeter School.  The First XV recorded a tight victory in Exeter, taking their opponents unbeaten record in the process.  Exeter, looking like the 'form' side in the region, struggled to shake off a tenacious but injury-ravaged Plymouth side. The final result of 20-19 represented a great return for the endeavour showed by the players.  The Second XV and Under 15s (right) also enjoyed the taste of victory and both followed up the wins of the weekend with good mid-week results against Truro College and Torquay Boys Grammar respectively. The First XV progressed to the semi-final of the Devon Cup with a workmanlike 27-0 performance against Exmouth CC.  They are one game away from consecutive finals and the chance to defend the title they won last year. A challenging five metre course with nine show jumps and eleven crosscountry jumps, saw the Plymouth College equestrian team secure a place in the National Schools Eventers Challenge. Equestrian team qualify for national finals - 14/10/09Equestrian team qualify for national finals - 14/10/0902475 A challenging five metre course with nine show jumps and eleven crosscountry jumps, saw the Plymouth College equestrian team secure a place in the National Schools Eventers Challenge.  The regional event held at Millfield School saw Suzannah Kellagher (Heliana), Poppy Le Marechal (Murphy's Shadow), Bobbie Moore (Grandesign) and Morwenna Moore (Typical Star) - all pictured below - clinch third place with points awarded for both time and style.  Bobbie and Suzannah were 5th and 6th respectively.  The national final takes place in Bedford at the end of November. In the 90 cm scurry class at the same event, Poppy (right) came 1st in a time of 43.69 seconds, Suzannah was 3rd (45.50) and Morwenna took 6th place (47.78). In other equestrian news, Plymouth College were the second equestrian team in Devon in the Websouthwest Schools Showjumping competition.  Competing against 24 teams, Sammy Cotton, Jessica Cronk, Alex Moore and Morwenna Moore finished 7th in the South West. <img src="/media/33189/millfield-eventers2.jpg" width="400" height="273" alt="Millfield equestrian2"/> Jamie O’Gallagher, Henry Slade, Josh Tolan and Charlie Maidment have all made it through the tough trials process to secure places on the U18 Devon rugby team. Devon squad for Plymouth College rugby players - 12/10/09Devon squad for Plymouth College rugby players - 12/10/0902457 Jamie O'Gallagher, Henry Slade, Josh Tolan and Charlie Maidment have all made it through the tough trials process to secure places on the U18 Devon rugby team.  Jamie, who is captain of the Plymouth College 1st XV, has been given the honour of captaining the county team.  Attending trials every Sunday since July, the boys have just had their first outing for Devon against Oxford. "I am always very proud when one of our boys gets selected for a county team" said Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards.  "Many boys from across Devon attend the trials so to have four from the same school on the team is really impressive." Photograph: L to R Josh Tolan, Henry Slade, Jamie O'Gallagher, Charlie Maidment GB fencer and Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 16, has walked away with a bronze medal in the U17 British Fencing Championships. Fencer clinches bronze medal in British Championships - 8/10/09Fencer clinches bronze medal in British Championships - 8/10/0902454 GB fencer and Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 16, has walked away with a bronze medal in the U17 British Fencing Championships.  Held in Sheffield, Georgina won all six fights in the round-robin pool stages to qualify as one of 32 in the main event.  She went onto win three out of four fights to secure her podium finish. Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill, said: "This was another great result for Georgina.  She continues to go from strength to strength and I'm delighted to see all her hard work rewarded in this way." Georgina is pictured far left in both photographs. <img src="/media/32886/british-fencing-champs2.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="British Fencing2"/> Plymouth College won their first full fixture of the season with a hard-fought victory over a big and physical Truro College team. Plymouth College 17:Truro College 15 - 24/9/09Plymouth College 17:Truro College 15 - 24/9/0902435 Plymouth College 1st XV won their first full fixture of the season with a hard-fought victory over a big and physical Truro College team. Playing at Plymouth Albion, Plymouth started strongly, scoring two tries and taking a healthy 14-0 lead. A further try was disallowed and a penalty goal attempt missed, that would have given Plymouth a strong lead by half time. Truro came back strongly, though clawing back the deficit and eventually taking the lead with ten minutes to go. Plymouth rallied, though and a strong surge upfield resulted in an infringement, allowing Henry Slade to step up and slot the high pressure winning score. Achieng Ajulu-Bushell was to beat two world record holders in a head to head race and go straight to the top of the FINA World Senior rankings for 50m Breaststroke at the British Short Course Grand Prix. Swimmers celebrate summer of national and international success - 15/9/09Swimmers celebrate summer of national and international success - 15/9/0902334 FINA World Rankings Achieng Ajulu-Bushell was to beat two world record holders in a head to head race and go straight to the top of the FINA World Senior rankings for 50m Breaststroke at the British Short Course Grand Prix. Her achievement made her Plymouth College's first Senior British Champion and, by implication, the fastest female breaststroker in the world in 2009.   International Events At the World Championships in Italy, Emma Wilkins (right) represented Great Britain, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell represented Kenya and Christian Homer represented Trinidad & Tobago (below with Jon Rudd). This is the second biggest swimming event on the planet to the Olympic Games. Achieng was 3/10ths of a second outside of making a semi final, whilst Emma and Christian both achieved best times whilst in Rome. <img src="/media/19026/world-championships-selecti.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="World Championships"/>  At the European Youth Olympic Festival in Finland, Grant Halsall represented Great Britain to win a silver and a bronze medal, a marvellous achievement at Europan level.  Grant also competed in the Island Games in Norway and won 3 gold medals and broke a British Junior Record At the European Junior Championships in the Czech Republic, David Gregory and Calum Jarvis both faired excellently for Great Britain, both narrowly missing finals. They are still young enough to compete in this event in 2010. British Records Broken Jack Smith David Gregory James Young Grant Halsall Matthew Powell English Record Broken Mitchell Adshead Scottish Records Broken Matthew Rose  Trinidad Records Broken Christian Homer   Kenyan Records Broken Achieng Ajulu-Bushell  British National Champions Jack Smith Matthew Powell Harry Ackland Oliver Leonard Matthew Rose Achieng Ajulu-Bushell David Gregory Calum Jarvis James Young British National Medallists Myles Pillage Michael Harris Grant Halsall Jonathan Hill Hannah Shulz Sam Straughan Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 16, has returned triumphant from the UK School Games, bringing home a team gold fencing medal for England. Gold medal for fencer - 8/9/09Gold medal for fencer - 8/9/0902258 Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Georgina Barrington, 16, has returned triumphant from the UK School Games, bringing home a team gold fencing medal for England.  Coming 5th in the individual girls' U18 epee competition, Georgina was part of a team of four competing against Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.  Her top 5 position helped the English team win the overall gold. Held this year in Cardiff, the Games replicate a major adult multi-sport competition with an opening and closing ceremony and an athletes' village.  Other sports include athletics, badminton, gymnastics, hockey, judo, swimming, table tennis, track cycling and volleyball. Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill, said: "It is fantastic that Georgina has won a gold medal, particularly because her place in the England team came two years early as she is only 16.  I'm delighted that the many hours she puts into her training has paid off in this way." Georgina, from Holsworthy and a boarder at Plymouth College, is a member of the rest of Britain fencing team for home internationals.  She is also part of the Great Britain U17 fencing squad, with whom she has represented her country in various international events in Europe. Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has triumphed in the World Championships in Rome, clinching the gold medal with his final dive – his score to win the 10m platform event included four perfect 10s.Tom is diving World Champion! - 22/7/09Tom is diving World Champion! - 22/7/0902349 Plymouth College pupil, Tom Daley, has triumphed in the World Championships in Rome, clinching the gold medal with his final dive – his score to win the 10m platform event included four perfect 10s.   Aged just 15, Tom beat pre-event favourite Qiu Bo into second place, with Olympic gold medallist Matt Mitcham in fourth.   The World Championships is not over just yet for Tom.  He competes in the synchronized event with partner Max Brick at the weekend.   Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn, said:  “Winning a gold medal in the World Championships is a truly outstanding achievement.  Tom is a remarkable young man and we are all incredibly proud of him.” Tennis players, Hettie Burrows (13) and Mae Dartnell (12), have convincingly won the Plymouth and District U15 girls’ doubles title. Hettie and Mae are U15 girls’ doubles champions - 17/7/09Hettie and Mae are U15 girls’ doubles champions - 17/7/0902344 Tennis players, Hettie Burrows (13) and Mae Dartnell (12), have convincingly won the Plymouth and District U15 girls’ doubles title.    Playing three matches of one set each, the girls beat teams from Eggbuckland (6-1), Hele’s (6-0) and Eggbuckland (6-0).  Their emphatic win was even more impressive because they are both a lot younger than their opponents.    Hettie (right) has been playing tennis for four years and Mae (left) for about five years.  As well as playing for the school team they are also members of Ivybridge tennis club. George Mitchell, 15, has come second in the junior section of the English Clay Pigeon Shooting Open.Clay Pigeon Shooting success for George - 15/7/09Clay Pigeon Shooting success for George - 15/7/0902337 George Mitchell, 15, has come second in the junior section of the English Clay Pigeon Shooting Open.  This follows his win as part of a team of three who were crowned South West Junior Champions in 2008.   Having taken up the sport 18 months ago, George is a member of Newnham Park Shooting Club and travels round the country to competitions with his Grandad, who also shoots.  Currently in the Colt (U16) category, George will move up to the Junior (U21) category after his next birthday.   Next up is the British Open later this year and hopefully the Worlds in 2010. Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil, Poppy Tank, 11, is the National Prep Schools’ U12 1500m champion.National athletics win for Prep pupil - 10/7/09National athletics win for Prep pupil - 10/7/0902335 Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil, Poppy Tank, 11, is the National Prep Schools’ U12 1500m champion.  Winning in a time of 5 minutes 13.5 seconds, Poppy was competing against some of the top girls in the country. The IAPS event was held at the Alexander Stadium, Birmingham.   Also competing was Harriet Mitchell, who came 4th in the Hurdles, and Harmony Rump, who was 4th in the 100m.  The relay team of Poppy, Harriet, Harmony and Phoebe Ham also came 4th.   PE teacher, Sue Butcher, said: “All the girls did really well but we are particularly proud of Poppy for winning her race and becoming National Champion”. Emma Wilkins, 18, has been selected to represent Great Britain in the World Championships.Swimmer selected for World Championships - 9/7/09Swimmer selected for World Championships - 9/7/0902334 Emma Wilkins, 18, has been selected to represent Great Britain in the World Championships.  Second only to the Olympics, the competition takes place in Rome at the end of July.   Achieving the highest level of swimming for a current pupil representing Great Britain, Emma qualified for the 50m freestyle at the Scottish National Championships.  She will attend a preparation camp in Sardinia two weeks before the world event.   Emma will join fellow swimming scholars, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell and Christian Homer, who are representing Kenya and Trinidad respectively, at the event.  Sponsored by Wilkinson, she will use the competition to gain as much experience as possible in preparation for the 2012 Olympics.  Ten teams of six competed for the Geoff Fabian Memorial Cup in the second Combined Cadet Force rowing race. Navy cadets are rowing champions Navy cadets are rowing champions - 24/6/0902321 Ten teams of six competed for the Geoff Fabian Memorial Cup in the second Combined Cadet Force rowing race.  Held at Jupiter Point, the CCF rowers battled against each other and the clock to lift the prestigious cup that was introduced after the death of Acting Contingent Commander, Commander Geoff Fabian (RN retired), in 2007.  Contingent Commander, Major Sarah Johnson, said: “Rowing was one of Geoff’s passions and he loved taking the cadets out on the water.  Introducing this race seemed a very fitting way for all of us to remember him each year.”  With cadets from navy, army and airforce sections taking part, the winners this year were a team of Year 11 naval cadets. Plymouth College girls have enjoyed a very successful rounders season this year, securing 11 wins out of 17 fixtures. Successful rounders season – 25/6/09Successful rounders season - 25/6/0902320 Plymouth College girls have enjoyed a very successful rounders season this year, securing 11 wins out of 17 fixtures. The U12 and U13 sides fulfilled the most matches and were comfortable winners over Ivybridge, Kelly College and Stover, with the U13s also beating Exeter School.    The U14s and U15s suffered from cancellations due to rain but still afforded good wins over Exeter, with the U14s also beating Stover and the U15s achieving a convincing victory over Kelly College.    The senior team fielded two competitive but sociable sides against Kelly College, and after spirited performances in the rain, they lost by just two rounders. Tom Watkin’s third century this season helped Plymouth College 1st X1 beat West Buckland School by 81 runs. Centuries for 1st X1 and U13 cricketers - 23/6/09Centuries for 1st X1 and U13 cricketers - 23/6/0902313 Tom Watkin’s third century this season helped Plymouth College 1st X1 beat West Buckland School by 81 runs.  After putting on 35 in 6 overs with Tom Passmore, Watkins shared a partnership of 180 with Jake Libby.  Plymouth College finished 265-6 off 35 overs.   West Buckland started confidently putting on 51 very quickly.  But wickets started to tumble and despite a spirited performance from West Buckland’s Bentley, Plymouth College won by 81 runs.   Tom Watkins wasn’t the only Plymouth College cricketer to score a century that day - U13 captain and Devon player, David Ackford, scored 112 in his match against West Buckland.  Both cricketers are also Yelverton Bohemian players. Plymouth College basketball player, Charles Connaris, 13, has been selected for the U14 South West basketball team.South West team for young basketball player - 22/6/09South West team for young basketball player - 22/6/0902311 Plymouth College basketball player, Charles Connaris, 13, has been selected for the U14 South West basketball team.  Charles will play for the team in a tournament in Belgium in August.   A keen player since he was five years old, Charles already plays for U14 Raiders and plays in an U16 summer league.  Currently a member of the Plymouth College junior basketball team, he graduates to the senior team next season. <img src="/media/19327/charles-connaris2.jpg" width="400" height="266" alt="Charles Connaris2"/> The infants at Plymouth College Preparatory School had a good incentive for their sports day – all the children were rewarded with an icecream afterwards!Icecream is sports day reward - 18/6/09Icecream is sports day reward - 18/6/0902308 The infants at Plymouth College Preparatory School had a good incentive for their sports day – all the children were rewarded with an icecream afterwards!   With the sun shining, the event involved all the children from Kindergarten up to Year 2.  Races included flat, sack, ball and spoon, obstacle and relays, and there was a special teddy bear race for Kindergarten.  There were bronze, silver and gold ribbons for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places and certificates were given out the next day in a special assembly for those who came first.   The Parents’ Association provided cream teas for the spectators.  A fun day was had by all. <img src="/media/19274/infant-sports-day2.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Infant Sports Day2"/> A double century partnership saw Plymouth College 1st X1 defeat Truro School by 137 runs. Comfortable win for Plymouth College 1st X1 - 15/6/09Comfortable win for Plymouth College 1st X1 - 15/6/0902302 A double century partnership saw Plymouth College 1st X1 defeat Truro School by 137 runs.    Centurians, Tom Watkins and George Stephenson, batted intelligently and it was a race to see who would reach one hundred first.  Despite a slight wobble on 99, Tom got there first before being run out on the fourth ball of the last over for 115. George continued to dispose of loose deliveries at will and finished unbeaten on 116.   Chasing 299-3, Truro started batting in earnest but to no avail.  With the overs running out, Ollie Mulberry destroyed the stumps, twice, to dismiss Truro for 162. Photographs: top right - Tom celebrates his century.  Below - Tom congratulates George on his century. <img src="/media/19169/george-stephenson-century.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="George Stephenson"/> Six elite swimmers from Plymouth College have been selected for the ISF World Schools’ Games in Qatar in December. Six swimmers selected for World School Games - 4/6/09Six swimmers selected for World School Games - 4/6/0902292 Six elite swimmers from Plymouth College have been selected for the ISF World Schools’ Games in Qatar in December.    Jonathan Hill, Sam Straughan, Grant Halsall, James Young, David Gregory and Achieng Ajulu-Bushell will be part of a team of just 24 swimmers from around the country representing English schools.  A seventh swimmer selected for the games may join Plymouth College in September.    The competition, which takes place every three years, is the biggest international sporting event for schools.  The swimmers' house mistress and coach, Lindsay Dunn, will travel with them as an English Schools swimming coach.   Plymouth College director of swimming, Jon Rudd, said: “This is the biggest schools event in the calendar so I’m delighted that we have so many swimmers on the team.  The increasing number of athletes being chosen for international events is testament to the success of the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander partnership - swimmers are getting a first-rate education in the classroom and training to the highest possible standards in the pool.” Tim Champion, aged 13, is celebrating an individual bronze medal and a south west team silver medal at the 2008 British Gymnastics Championships held in Newcastle. British bronze and silver medals for Plymouth College gymnast British bronze and silver medals for Plymouth College gymnast 02288 Tim Champion, aged 13, is celebrating an individual bronze medal and a south west team silver medal at the 2008 British Gymnastics Championships held in Newcastle.  His individual podium finish at Intermediate 1 level came after completing seven disciplines – floor, parallel bars, high bar, pommel, vault, rings and physical preparation – gaining an overall score of 62.900.  The south west team scored a cumulative 234.100.   A Year 9 sports scholar at Plymouth College, Tim, who lives near Torpoint, qualified for the national event after becoming U16 Devon Champion at the end of March.  He took up gymnastics at the age of 9 and has been doing competitive gymnastics for more than three years.  He has previously been part of the Great Britain junior training squad and was selected to train with British coach, Barry Collie, in Exeter during the Easter holidays.   A jubilant Tim said: “I’m really pleased to have done so well at the Nationals.  Obviously there were some really strong competitors taking part so I was delighted that the time and effort I put into my training paid off with a bronze medal.  The team silver medal was a real bonus” Two Plymouth College swimmers, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 14, and Christian Homer, 17, have been selected for the World Championships in Rome this summer.Swimmers selected for World Championships - 29/5/09Swimmers selected for World Championships - 29/5/0902293 Two Plymouth College swimmers, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 14, and Christian Homer, 17, have been selected for the World Championships in Rome this summer. Achieng will represent Kenya in the 50M breaststoke and Christian will represent Trinidad in the 50M backstroke.  Earlier this year, Achieng was named Kenya’s most promising female athlete and won gold medals at the South African Championships and the African Senior Swimming Championships.  Christian previously represented Trinidad at the CARIFTA (Caribbean Championships) last month. Both swimmers are part of the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme. Plymouth College director of swimming, Jon Rudd, will be joining the swimmers at the championships as head coach for Kenya.         It was a great atmosphere down at Brickfields. The weather was good and luckily for the competitors and staff, it did not rain as in previous years. Sun shines for senior sports day - 28/5/09Sun shines for senior sports day - 28/5/0902272 It was a great atmosphere down at Brickfields.  The weather was good and luckily for the competitors and staff, it did not rain as in previous years.   The competition was tight between the houses with the lead held by Chaytors for most of the afternoon.  However, with a late drop in form, Palmers, Dales and Sargents all managed to overtake Chaytors in the latter stages.   The eventual winners were Palmers with a fantastic final performance in the relays. There were many fine performances with the Victrix Ludorum going to Georgie Barrington of Palmers for shot putt, and the Victor Ludorum awarded to George Stephenson of Chaytors also for shot putt.   The final positions were: 1st = Palmers; 2nd =  Sargents; 3rd = Dales; 4th = Chaytors. <img src="/media/18691/senior-sports-day_500x333.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Sports Day1"/> Plymouth College pupil, Georgina Barrington, 16, has been selected to represent England at the UK School Games in September.England call-up for fencer - 14/5/09England call-up for fencer - 14/5/0902258 Plymouth College pupil, Georgina Barrington, 16, has been selected to represent England at the UK School Games in September.  The Modern Pentathlon scholar is just one of four to be chosen for the U18 fencing team.   The Games, which this year will be held in South Wales, replicate a major adult multi-sport competition with an opening and closing ceremony and an athletes’ village.   Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon, Andy Hill, said: “It is fantastic that Georgina has made the England team and because she is only 16, she has made it two years early!  She has put many hours into her training and really deserves this.”   Georgina, from Holsworthy and a boarder at Plymouth College, is a member of the rest of Britain fencing team for home internationals.  She is also part of the Great Britain U17 fencing squad, with whom she has represented her country in various international events in Europe. Competing against the best swimmers in the South West region, the boys’ team had the best result coming second in the medley relay at the South West Primary School Championships. Success for Prep swimmers in national and regional championships - 12/5/09Competing against the best swimmers in the South West region, the boys’ team had the best result coming second in the medley relay at the South West Primary School Championships. Success for Prep swimmers in national and regional championships - 12/5/0902254 Competing against the best swimmers in the South West region, the boys’ team had the best result coming second in the medley relay at the South West Primary School Championships.  The silver medal position means that they have qualified for the national final being held in Sheffield in June.  Unfortunately they had a flying start in the freestyle relay.   The girls took one second off their previous best time to come 4th in the medley relay, taking 5th place in the freestyle relay.  The swimmers were Poppy Tank, Harriet Mitchell, Natasha Spiers and Charlotte Toptani for the girls, and Alex Pillage, Myles Pillage, Tom Brooker and Ollie Lord for the boys.   A week later, Myles Pillage broke the event record, and took the title, in the 11 and under 50m freestyle in the IAPS National Swimming Championships held in Crawley.  His twin brother, Alex, did a personal best to come 6th in the 50m backstroke.  The freestyle relay team in the same age category improved their time by two seconds to come 11th in the country.  The team was Myles Pillage, Alex Pillage, Oscar Marsland and Matthew Singh.   Photograph: Myles Pillage Some very competitive cricket was seen at Plymouth College when the College 1st XI played host to the prestigious MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) as part of their annual tour of Devon and Cornwall. Rain stops play between MCC and Plymouth College for second year running - 8/5/09Rain stops play between MCC and Plymouth College for second year running - 8/5/0902244 Some very competitive cricket was seen at Plymouth College when the College 1st XI played host to the prestigious MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) as part of their annual tour of Devon and Cornwall.   MCC won the toss and batted on a damp slow pitch. James Burke, who bowled for the first time this season (albeit ¾ pace), and captain, Sam Cload, opened the bowling with maidens.   With good controlled-pace bowling, backed up by disciplined fielding, the MCC batsmen found it difficult to score runs freely and would have undoubtedly lost wickets if half chances had been taken. Ollie Mulberry made the breakthrough having Hughes caught by Price before Jake Libby bowled Hefferman.   Burke and Cload, the pick of the bowlers, returned just before and after lunch. Alex Hill bowled at the end of MCC’s innings, when Parker 56no and former Somerset player (now Cornwall player) Keith Parsons 34no were pushing the score on. A sporting declaration of 191-4 off 52 overs gave Plymouth College a chance.   In reply, James Burke and Jake Libby started off in positive fashion but the weather stopped them in their tracks when heavy rain arrived as forecast.  With Plymouth Sound and Mount Edgcumbe no longer visible from the OPM suite balcony, the match was abandoned for the second year running after an early tea was taken.   Plymouth College’s 1st XI have had a busy and successful start to the cricket season with a pre-season win against Philanthropists, a win against Bryanston in the National Twenty20 cup as well as a win against Kelly College. Busy start to cricket season for Plymouth College - 5/5/09Busy start to cricket season for Plymouth College - 5/5/0902239 Plymouth College’s 1st XI have had a busy and successful start to the cricket season with a pre-season win against Philanthropists, a win against Bryanston in the National Twenty20 cup as well as a win against Kelly College.   In the match against Philanthropists, Plymouth College scored 298-3 off their 40 overs – Harry Stephenson scored 100, Jake Libby 56, Jake Luffman 50 and George Stephenson 54. Philanthropists were all out for 80, with wickets going to Ollie Mulberry 4-9, Jake Libby 3-15 and Sam Cload 2-9. In the National T20, Plymouth College lost against King’s College, Taunton, and Sherborne School, before beating Bryanston by 10 runs. England U19 and Somerset player, James Burke, was 98 not out and George Stephenson 59 not out.  Ed Knight took 5-5.   Kelly College were defeated by 41 runs with a top score of 35 coming from Jake Luffman and George Stephenson taking 3-30.    Matches against Devon Dumplings, The MCC and Blundell’s now follow in quick succession.   Plymouth College rugby matches will be a whole lot brighter next season with a set of brand new post protectors. New post protectors for rugby pitches - 22/4/09New post protectors for rugby pitches - 22/4/0902219 Plymouth College rugby matches will be a whole lot brighter next season with a set of brand new post protectors.  Part-funded by the Parents’ Association, there are enough protectors for three pitches.   Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards, said: “The new protectors look really smart and the school colours really stand out.  A big thank you to the Parents’ Association for their contribution and on-going support.”   Photo: Richard Edwards with a set of the new rugby post protectors. Kenyan swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, has claimed two gold medals at the South African Championships, an outdoor altitude event. More gold medals for Achieng - 15/4/09More gold medals for Achieng - 15/4/0902218 Kenyan swimmer, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, has claimed two gold medals at the South African Championships, an outdoor altitude event.    Named Kenya’s ‘Most Promising Female Athlete’ earlier this year, Achieng adds her latest medals to her two golds won at the African Senior Swimming Championships just before Christmas.   Achieng has been part of the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme for two years.   In other swimming news, Jonathan Hill recently took part in the Senior South African Championships in East London, and Christian Homer represented Trinidad in the CARIFTA (Caribbean Championships). The Sheffield Premier Meet saw two British and two Scottish records broken by Plymouth College swimmers.More swimming records broken at Sheffield event - 8/4/09More swimming records broken at Sheffield event - 8/4/0901984 The Sheffield Premier Meet saw two British and two Scottish records broken by Plymouth College swimmers.   Sam Staughan and Oliver Leonard both broke British Age Group 50m Butterfly records and Matthew Rose broke the Scottish 13 Years 200m and 400m Freestyle records.   Photograph: Sam Staughan The British Swimming Championships, held in Sheffield, proved to be a great success for Plymouth College swimmers with four being selected to represent Great Britain and six British age group records broken.British records and selections at British Swimming Championships - 1/4/09British records and selections at British Swimming Championships - 1/4/0902195 The British Swimming Championships, held in Sheffield, proved to be a great success for Plymouth College swimmers with four being selected to represent Great Britain and six British age group records broken.   Calum Jarvis and David Gregory have been selected to compete in the European Junior Championships in Prague in July, while Sam Straughan and Grant Halsall have been selected for the European Youth Olympics Festival in Tampere, Finland the same month.   Grant Halsall’s selection came after he broke an impressive three British records in the 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke and 100m butterfly.  He also made it to a senior final in the championships, which is all the more impressive because he is only 15 years old. Emma Wilkins, Zoe Hester and David Gregory also made senior finals, which involved the top eight British swimmers across all age groups.   Sam Staughan added the 100m freestyle British record to the four junior short course British records he has already broken this season, while David Gregory and Joseph Patching both broke the 200m backstroke British records for their age groups.   The swimmers are part of the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander elite swimming programme.   Photograph: Grant Halsall Plymouth College Preparatory School’s Year six A and B netball teams had a very worth-while trip to Lympstone recently with an away fixture against St Peter’s School. High scores for Prep netball teams - 26/3/09High scores for Prep netball teams - 26/3/090Plymouth College Preparatory School’s Year 6 A and B netball teams had a very worth-while trip to Lympstone recently with an away fixture against St Peter’s School.  The A team secured a confident 16-9 win over their opponents. The B team also impressed with good team play, coming out with a very pleasing 7-7 draw.  The senior netball team have secured bronze medals in the Plymouth Schools’ Netball Tournament.Bronze medals for 1st netball team - 25/3/09Bronze medals for 1st netball team - 25/3/0902168 The senior netball team have secured bronze medals in the Plymouth Schools’ Netball Tournament.   Held at Heles School, the Plymouth College team had to play without several regular players who had drama commitments.    However, the new team quickly gelled, worked hard and were an effective unit in all three matches.  They finished in a well-deserved bronze medal position. Oliver Leonard, 13, has broken the WISE International junior 100m butterfly record in a time of 59:20. Oliver breaks junior butterfly record - 24/3/09Oliver breaks junior butterfly record - 24/3/0902034 Oliver Leonard, 13, has broken the British Schools Junior 100m butterfly record in a time of 59:20.    Already the holder of the British U13 50m butterfly record, Oliver was representing England at WISE International in Swansea and was competing against the top youth swimmers from Scotland, Wales and Ireland   Oliver joined Plymouth College’s elite swimming programme, which is run in partnership with Plymouth Leander, just under a year ago. Plymouth College U16s have had great preparation for the forth-coming National Schools Sevens Tournament at Rosslyn Park after being crowned West of England champions. U16s are West Of England Sevens champions - 19/3/09U16s are West Of England Sevens champions - 19/3/090 Plymouth College U16s have had great preparation for the forth-coming National Schools Sevens Tournament at Rosslyn Park after being crowned West of England champions.  Held in Taunton across three venues, 20 schools took part in the one-day tournament.  From the first game to the last, the Plymouth College squad of ten each put in quality performances. With results that included a 40-5 win over Clifton College and a 35-5 victory over Kings Taunton, Plymouth College topped their group without losing a game. They met Bryanston in the semi-finals which they dominated from the first whistle to the last. Constant aggressive defence put pressure on their opponents throughout the game and well-timed passes and quick thinking saw Plymouth comfortably through to the final with a 40-5 win.  The final against Taunton School was a much closer game although Plymouth looked comfortable throughout. The team allowed their opposition such little time on the ball that when a mistake was made they had the ability to ship the ball into open spaces quickly and score.  Eventually Plymouth College ran out 28-12 winners.  Throughout the tournament the squad provided thoroughly entertaining rugby, and moments of individual skill were complemented with patient team play. This will give confidence to the squad going into the Rosslyn Park tournament. <img src="/media/16848/u16-west-of-england-7s_500x333.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="U16 West of England 7s"/> Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews (centre), has won the U13 Boys’ Epee title in the Plymouth U13/U17 Open – the competition was an Allstar Channel Series.Fencer wins U13 epee title - 19/3/09Fencer wins U13 epee title - 19/3/0902160 Plymouth College fencer, Tim Andrews (centre), has won the U13 Boys’ Epee title in the Plymouth U13/U17 Open – the competition was an Allstar Channel Series.  The event also saw Megan Woodrow (right) and Rebecca Razey (left) from Plymouth College share third place in the U17 girls’ event.  Another Plymouth College pupil, Katie Davies-Gregory, took fifth position.  Involving more than 90 athletes from across the country, the competition was held at Plymouth College Preparatory School and was organized by Plymouth Fencing Club.  All four fencers are part of the school’s Modern Pentathlon programme, which also involves swimming, running, shooting and riding.  Kevin Vandabona, Year 7, has clinched a bronze medal in a Devon and Cornwall table tennis tournament.Bronze medal for table tennis player - 18/3/09Bronze medal for table tennis player - 18/3/0902154 Kevin Vandabona, Year 7, has clinched a bronze medal in a Devon and Cornwall table tennis tournament.  With 42 competitors in the U13 category, Kevin just lost out in the semi-final but won the play-off to take the bronze medal.  Kevin took up table tennis about two years ago and since moving to Plymouth from Southampton in the New Year, he has been playing at Woolwell Table Tennis Club.  Through illness, he had to withdraw from the England U13 trials after the first round this year but hopes to try again in 2010. A fast-paced and highly-competitive event was inevitable when the girls challenged the boys to a game of netball to raise money for charity.Girls beat boys in Comic Relief netball match! - 17/3/09Girls beat boys in Comic Relief netball match! - 17/3/090 A fast-paced and highly-competitive event was inevitable when the girls challenged the boys to a game of netball to raise money for charity.   The boys’ green team beat the girls six goals to four, but the boys’ blue team lost three goals to nine, giving the girls an overall victory of thirteen goals to nine.  A total of £58.40 was raised for Comic Relief.  <img src="/media/16603/comic-relief-netball-09_500x333.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Comic Relief Netball"/>Plymouth College has won the Open Schools Showjumping competition, held at the Barguse Equestrian Centre near St Austell. Showjumping win for equestrian team - 13/3/09Showjumping win for equestrian team - 13/3/0902147 Plymouth College has won the Open Schools Showjumping competition, held at the Barguse Equestrian Centre near St Austell.   Bobbie Moore, Alex Moore, Michael Slater and Georgina Barrington were the only team to complete two rounds without a single pole down.  A second Plymouth College team came sixth with 12 faults.   In the individual competition, Bobbie came fourth and Alex took sixth place.  The U16 netball team have taken third place in the Plymouth Schools’ Netball Tournament.Bronze medals for U16 netball team - 12/3/09Bronze medals for U16 netball team - 12/3/0902146 The U16 netball team have taken third place in the Plymouth Schools’ Netball Tournament.   In what proved to be a very close competition, the girls beat Heles School by 2 goals and narrowly lost to Plymstock to set up a 2nd/3rdplace play-off against Kelly College.    With a major height advantage at their scoring end, defence proved almost impossible against Kelly and the Plymouth team had to settle for the bronze medal position. Light drizzle failed to dampen spirits in the inaugural school cross-country event. Involving the whole school for the first time, Plymouth’s Central Park was awash with the red, blue, green and yellow shirts of the school Houses.Chaytors win inaugural Lang Cup - 11/3/09Chaytors win inaugural Lang Cup - 11/3/0902143 Light drizzle failed to dampen spirits in the inaugural school cross-country event.  Involving the whole school for the first time, Plymouth’s Central Park was awash with the red, blue, green and yellow shirts of the school Houses.   With different distances for Years 7 and 8, Years 9 and 10, and Year 11 and Sixth Form, Chaytors (blue) were the first House to clinch the Lang Cup with a runaway 24 points.  Palmers (red) came second on 16 points, Dales (yellow) a very close third with 14 points and Sargents (green) claimed just 6 points.   In the seniors’ race, Kosuke Takeuchi (Upper Sixth) was the first to finish the 4.6 km course with Sarah Palmer (Upper Sixth) the first girl home and fifth overall.  Jon Coyte was the first Lower Sixth boy and Sarah Marchant the first Lower Sixth girl.  Jake Libby and Zoe Malone took the Year 11 titles.    At intermediate level Ellery Jones (Year 10) took the top spot in the 3.3 km race with Megan Woodrow the first Year 10 girl, Oli Cleneghan the first Year 9 boy and Saskia Wormleighton the Year 9 girls’ winner.   The juniors covered 2.3 km, which saw Dominic Day first past the post for Year 8 boys, Emily Dinnis for Year 8 girls, and wins for Sahila Kellet and Annabel Norris in Year 7.   Retired teacher, Graham Lang, who coached the school cross-country team for many years, presented the Lang Cup to Chaytors. <img src="/media/16554/crosscountry-(1)_485x401.jpg" width="485" height="401" alt="Crosscountry2" style="width: 485px; height: 401px"/> Rising star and elite swimming scholar, Sam Straughan, continues to drop British Junior Short Course records after claiming his fourth such mark in a five month period. Sam clinches fourth British title - 10/3/09Sam clinches fourth British title - 10/3/0902141 Rising star and elite swimming scholar, Sam Straughan, continues to drop British Junior Short Course records after claiming his fourth such mark in a five month period.  The latest change to the records books came in the 200m IM where the Plymouth College pupil reduced Roberto Pavoni’s 2007 standard of 2:05.03 down to 2:04.78 in the last round of the Devon County ASA Championships at Tiverton.   Nine days out from his challenge at the British Championships in Sheffield, Sam will take great confidence from this achievement.  Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said: “Sam was at the very beginning of his taper for this achievement so we hope that with more rest, particularly in his strength and conditioning programme, we can see some further pleasing performances when we get to Sheffield.”   Sam has already captured the 50m Backstroke, 50m Butterfly and 100m IM records this season.  He is in his second year of the highly-acclaimed Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander swimming scholarship programme. For the fourth consecutive year Plymouth College swimming teams have clinched both the boys’ and the girls’ titles in the DRSA Plymouth Schools’ Swimming Championships. Swimmers retain Plymouth titles - 6/3/09Swimmers retain Plymouth titles - 6/3/0902134For the fourth consecutive year Plymouth College swimming teams have clinched both the boys’ and the girls’ titles in the DRSA Plymouth Schools’ Swimming Championships.      With the school entering two teams for boys and girls, Plymouth College took first and second place in both competitions for the second year running - the boys beat Ivybridge Community College into third place and Plymouth High School for Girls took third in the girls’ race. <img src="/media/16382/plymouth-schools-swimming.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Plymouth Schools Swimming"/> Championship football team, Crystal Palace, made the most of Plymouth College’s close proximity to Home Park by using the school’s sports field for a training session in advance of their evening match against Plymouth Argyle.Crystal Palace ‘warm-up’ on Plymouth College pitch - 19/2/09Crystal Palace ‘warm-up’ on Plymouth College pitch - 19/2/090 Championship football team, Crystal Palace, made the most of Plymouth College’s close proximity to Home Park by using the school’s sports field for a training session in advance of their evening match against Plymouth Argyle.   Led by manager, Neil Warnock, the London team were put through their paces for more than an hour on what proved to be the warmest day of the year so far.  Had it not been half term, their practice would have undoubtedly drawn a large group of spectators from the school.   That evening, Crystal Palace went onto beat Argyle 3-1 – their first win after a run of four defeats.   <img src="/media/15988/crystal-palace_568x379.jpg" width="568" height="379" alt="Crystal Palace" style="width: 568px; height: 379px"/> Plymouth College elite swimmer, Sam Straughan aged 15, has broken the British Junior 100m individual medley record.Third British record for swimmer - 18/2/09Third British record for swimmer - 18/2/0902106 Plymouth College elite swimmer, Sam Straughan aged 15, has broken the British Junior 100m individual medley record.  This is the third British record Sam has clinched this season, after taking the Junior 50m Backstroke and 50m Butterfly records in November.   Swimming in the Devon County ASA Open Championships in Central Park, Sam took the record, which was previously set in 2001, in a time of 58.33.   Sam is in his second year of the highly-acclaimed Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander swimming scholarship programme.  Plymouth College Director of Swimming and Plymouth Leander Head Coach, Jon Rudd, said:   “Sam is enjoying a superb season – to claim his third British record is a great achievement.  This latest record is fantastic because it is by a Plymouth swimmer, who swims for a Plymouth club and it was recorded in Plymouth.  It isn’t often that happens.”  It was a sunny but cold day when the U11 and U10 netball teams took on Stover School.Outstanding wins for Prep netball teams - 12/2/09Outstanding wins for Prep netball teams - 12/2/090 It was a sunny but cold day when the U11 and U10 netball teams took on Stover School.   In the U11s match, the teamwork between Poppy Tank (goal attack and centre) and Heloise Wormleighton (goal shooter and goal attack) was particularly effective.  Heloise consistently caught Poppy’s bullet-like passes as they flew down the court and with her shooting on form, helped to secure an emphatic 11-5 win.  The rest of the team supported well with Priscilla Alao (goal keeper), Phoebe Ham (goal defence), Melissa Kuo (wing defence), Olivia Lazenby (centre and wing attack), Brooke Holt (wing attack and goal shooter) and Sophie Miller (wing defence).   Harmony Rump (centre and goal attack) and Melodie Cherrington (wing attack and centre) gave very strong performances in the U10 match.  However, the whole team played exceptionally well and dominated the Stover side.  The final score of 8-2 very reflected this.  The other team members were Lauren Reed (goal keeper), Molly McHugh (wing defence), Natasha Spiers (goal shooter), Libby Day (wing attack), Olivia Walker (goal defence) and Freya Lam (wing defence).  <img src="/media/15824/u11-and-u10-netball_564x423.jpg" width="564" height="423" alt="U11 and U10 Netball" style="width: 564px; height: 423px"/> Michael Haley, 15, has won the U16 Boys’ Singles and the U18 Boys’ Doubles in the Plymouth and District Junior Badminton ‘Ellis’ Tournament.Badminton titles for Michael - 12/2/09Badminton titles for Michael - 12/2/0902097 Michael Haley, 15, has won the U16 Boys’ Singles and the U18 Boys’ Doubles in the Plymouth and District Junior Badminton ‘Ellis’ Tournament.   Held at the city’s Mayflower Centre, Michael faced a strong opponent in the singles final and lost the first game.  However, he came back to win the second in a tightly-fought game, which saw some wonderful rallies.  Both players exhibited some great badminton and Michael took the game 21-20 with a beautiful backhand drop shot.  In the third game the score was neck and neck until Michael finally broke away and won the title with a score of 21-17.   He followed this win by taking the U18 Boys’ Doubles title with his partner Matt Elver.  Because Matt is now too old for the U16s category, which they had won for the last two years, Michael had to play up a group and so was even more delighted when they won.   Michael has been playing badminton for about nine years and is a member of the school badminton team, which won the U19 Plymouth Schools’ League last term.  He is also a member of the Victoria Badminton Club.  As well as previously winning the doubles title at U16 level, Michael has also been the U14 Boys’ Singles champion.   Photograph:  Michael (right) with his doubles partner Matt Plymouth College’s swimming team have returned triumphant from the English Schools’ Swimming Association’s relay finals held in Gloucester. Eight national relay titles for swimmers - 10/2/09Eight national relay titles for swimmers - 10/2/090 Plymouth College’s swimming team has returned triumphant from the English Schools’ Swimming Association’s relay finals held in Gloucester.  Swimming in nine of the twelve finals, the school clinched eight titles and claimed silver in the other.   The team broke five of the English Schools’ records bringing the total Plymouth College holds to six. In some of the races, the records were first broken in the heats and then again in the finals, and the intermediate girls swam inside the record for the senior girls!   <img src="/media/15724/essa-relays_639x426.jpg" width="639" height="426" alt="Essa Relays" style="width: 639px; height: 426px"/> The Plymouth College U14 rugby team have beaten Colyton Grammar School to win the Devon Cup. Plymouth College U14s win Devon Cup - 30/1/09Plymouth College U14s win Devon Cup - 30/1/0902082 The Plymouth College U14 rugby team have beaten Colyton Grammar School to win the Devon Cup.   Sweet revenge for last year's final which saw Colyton lift the Cup, Plymouth were always in control against bigger opponents.  First half tries from Ollie Foster and Luke Dickinson, and a fine individual effort by George Haslam, meant that Plymouth were leading 19-0 at half time.  Tries were converted by captain, Tom Mumford.  Colyton fought back in the second half but the Plymouth defence was up to the job, conceding just one score leading to a final result of 19-7. <img src="/media/15510/u14-devon-cup_575x383.jpg" width="575" height="383" alt="U14 Devon Cup" style="width: 575px; height: 383px"/>    Plymouth College swimming scholar, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 14, has won the Most Promising Female Athlete Award at the Kenyan National Sports Awards.Kenyan Sports Award for Achieng - 27/1/09Kenyan Sports Award for Achieng - 27/1/090 Plymouth College swimming scholar, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 14, has won the Most Promising Female Athlete Award at the Kenyan National Sports Awards.  The prestigious accolade comes after Achieng won two gold medals and one bronze medal for Kenya in the Africa Senior Swimming Championships in Johannesburg just before Christmas.   <img src="/media/14949/achieng_496x250.jpg" width="496" height="250" alt="Achieng"/>Plymouth won the 2009 tournament with a clean sweep of victories in the pool section before overcoming the challenge of Torquay Grammar in the final. Plymouth College win Kelly 10s – Again! - 22/1/091920Plymouth College win Kelly 10s – Again! - 22/1/0902072 Plymouth won the 2009 tournament with a clean sweep of victories in the pool section before overcoming the challenge of Torquay Grammar in the final.  The British weather did its best to confound the organisers by delivering a severe frost in the morning followed by persistent heavy rain after that.  However, Kelly bravely staged the event and amid the difficult conditions some entertaining rugby was produced for the collection of hardy supporters.  In the pool stages, Plymouth beat Tavistock College and a Barbarian side (formed last minute due to the late withdrawal of North Devon), before coming up against their Devon Cup Final opponents, Exeter School, in the deciding match of the pool.  Plymouth made it three wins out of three against their nearest rivals of this season, after an assertive defensive effort denied Exeter space or opportunity.  The result of 15-0 ensured that   Plymouth went through to the final where both sides battled hard against each other, fatigue and the elements.   Plymouth came through on top again, finishing with a record of played four, won four.  In the final analysis, the fact that Plymouth did not have a point scored against them during the tournament highlights the collective unity of this team, and their organisation in defence meant that their own try line was rarely threatened.    Captain Phil Beak and Vice Captain Alex Parford were again able to share the joy of winning silverware with their team mates, following the win in the Under 18 Devon Cup final in December.  Swimming scholar, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 14, has won two gold medals at the Africa Senior Swimming Championships, held in Johannesburg, South Africa.African gold medals for elite swimmer - 2/1/09African gold medals for elite swimmer - 2/1/090 Swimming scholar, Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, 14, has won two gold medals at the Africa Senior Swimming Championships, held in Johannesburg, South Africa.   Representing Kenya, Achieng won the 50m breaststroke, setting a new championship record for the event.  A few days earlier she won gold in the 100m breaststroke and bronze in the 100m freestyle.   <img src="/media/14949/achieng_496x250.jpg" width="496" height="250" alt="Achieng"/> Oliver Leonard, 13, has broken the British 13 years age group record for 50 metres butterfly.Oliver breaks British age group swimming record - 11/12/08Oliver breaks British age group swimming record - 11/12/0802034 Oliver Leonard, 13, has broken the British 13 years age group record for 50 metres butterfly.   Previously held by another Plymouth College swimmer, Matthew Powell, Oliver took the record at the Plymouth Leander Open Meet, held at Millfield School.   Oliver joined the school’s elite swimming programme at the start of the summer term this year.   In other swimming news, Natalie Steele and Holly Campbell have been selected for the South West of England team to compete against other European regions at an international meet in Geneva in January. The season began in late August with a series of pre-season sessions in order to ascertain the ability and levels of the players prior to the fast approaching season. These sessions really helped me build a relationship with a group of pupils who I had not coached before.U14 rugby season report - 10/12/08U14 rugby season report - 10/12/0802036 The season began in late August with a series of pre-season sessions in order to ascertain the ability and levels of the players prior to the fast approaching season. These sessions really helped me build a relationship with a group of pupils who I had not coached before.  With a squad of approximately 35 players, I had high hopes for the upcoming season ahead.  We discussed the season and came up with a number of challenges to try to achieve.  The main one being to win the Devon Cup, and as this is being written the ‘dream’ is still alive.  We are in the semi-finals and are waiting to find out who we will be playing.  The season started with two very good wins against Blundell’s (40-0) and QEH (24-0).  In between the Saturday fixtures, we embarked on the West Devon Cup matches, the first one against DHS.  We narrowly won 14-0 due to a postage stamp-sized pitch, but still we adapted and ground out a result. Unfortunately this was quickly followed by a significant loss to Kings Taunton (47-0), which saw us 28-0 down inside 5-minutes!    A steep learning curve and we went on to face a tough week with matches against old rivals Ivybridge in the West Devon Cup and then a trip to Truro.  We went to Ivybridge without our leading fly-half Olly Clenaghan, but George Haslam stepped into the breach with a quite outstanding display of dominance at fly-half.  The forwards were immense and a 28-0 win resulted.  Awesome!  Then it was the mighty trip to the depths of Cornwall where we knew that a tough battle was instore.  Although we dominated, the main thing that undid us was a couple of moments of indecision and a couple of individual tries from Truro, which saw us lose 21-10.  However, another stirling effort. There were two more wins before half-term against Ridgeway (West Devon Cup 43-0) and Exeter School (41-0).   The second half began with a Saturday match against Kelly College, which resulted in numerous ‘B’ team players playing their first ‘A’ team match - the A team had to save themselves for the West Devon Cup final against Kelly three days later.  We lost the Saturday game 26-10, but credit to those who stepped up as we were very close to winning.  Then the final against Kelly under floodlights, at Brickfields.  Playing under lights at a stadium, in front of a large crowd with many of their heroes from the Albion team witnessing it, was a dream come true for the players.  The enthralling game ended up going to extra-time and still nothing could separate the teams with a final score of 12-12. The title was shared pending a replay, which we went onto win 18-10, after some quite outstanding play.  West Devon Champions!  Of the last 3 games we only managed to beat West Buckland, losing again to Truro and then finally Taunton School.  I would like to say what an absolute pleasure it has been to coach these boys who have a promising future in the game if they carry on.  I’d like to thank the parents for their support throughout the season, many who follow us to away games as well as matches at home. There are too many names to mention but one special thanks must go to a captain who is ‘rugby mad’ and lives and breathes for his team, Tom Mumford.  He is an asset for any team and a credit to the school along with the other players.    SPARKY, U14 Rugby Coach  After eight years, Mark ‘Sparky’ Portass leaves Plymouth College at the end of this term to take up a PE post at a sports college in Rugby.  A former pupil of Plymouth College, Mark has been an invaluable sports coach to many rugby players in his years as a member of staff at the school.            Plymouth College 1st XV went in to the U18 Devon Cup final against Exeter School with a number of injury concerns and were forced to start the game, played at Sandy Park, home of Exeter Chiefs, without key lineout forward and captain, Phil Beak. Plymouth College dig deep to secure dramatic Devon Cup win - 5/12/08Plymouth College dig deep to secure dramatic Devon Cup win - 5/12/0802035 Plymouth College 1st XV went in to the U18 Devon Cup final against Exeter School with a number of injury concerns and were forced to start the game, played at Sandy Park, home of Exeter Chiefs, without key lineout forward and captain, Phil Beak.    Set piece problems were compounded when James Kelsall was concussed whilst claiming the first kick off the match.  This resulted in the college being left with only Alex Smith as a line out specialist and with three Under 16 players in the front five.  However, Jon Dawe, hooker by choice but nothing if not adaptable, found himself being thrown up at the front of the lineout.  Alex and Jon were manful as they adapted to their unfamiliar roles and slowly but surely the lineout began to become secure.  The scrummage was dominant throughout and this hampered one of Exeter’s main threats, that of their strong running back row.  However, Exeter took the lead with a well worked try and only after Plymouth finally settled down did they respond with a try of their own.    The score see sawed and Plymouth completed the final and decisive score of the match when James Burke converted the crucial penalty that put the college in the lead.  This was followed by a tense ten minutes as both sides battled hard.  However, Plymouth College prevailed and wound up as worthy County Champions with a final score of 13-10. Ollie Piper, aged 8, has clinched a silver medal in the Irish Open Diving Championships.Silver medal for Prep School diver - 4/12/08Silver medal for Prep School diver - 4/12/0802028 Ollie Piper, aged 8, has clinched a silver medal in the Irish Open Diving Championships.   The Plymouth College Preparatory School pupil was leading the 8/9 age group up to the 11th dive but just lost out on the gold medal by 0.15 points with his final dive.   Ollie, who has been diving for two years, is one of only two eight-year-olds in Plymouth Diving’s elite diving squad.  He trains five days a week, completing about 20 hours of diving and gymnastics sessions.   This was only the second main competition for the young diver, who can boast Olympic stars Tom Daly and Tonia Couch as team-mates.   “This is a tremendous achievement”, said Headmaster, Chris Gatherer.  “We are all very proud of Ollie”. As the season draws to a close, Plymouth College rugby teams can reflect on a busy and exciting season.Strong play on the rugby field from all teams - 1/12/08Strong play on the rugby field from all teams - 1/12/0802019 As the season draws to a close, Plymouth College rugby teams can reflect on a busy and exciting season.    There have been numerous successes for various teams with the U14s winning the West Devon Cup, the U16s making the semi-final of the Devon Cup and the U15s making the final of the West Devon Cup.  The U14s had to work hard for their win over Kelly and when the first match, including extra-time, remained locked at 12 all, they had to travel to Kelly for a replay.  Second time round they prevailed, winning a tough contest 18-12.   At the time of going to print, the First XV are through to the final of the U18 Devon Cup when they will play Exeter School at Exeter Chiefs’ ground.  The First XV have enjoyed a very successful season, losing only once to Truro College Rugby Academy in the 4th round of the Daily Mail Cup.  In a very busy season they have secured victories over all their main rivals, including Blundell’s, QEH Bristol, King’s Taunton, Truro School, Kelly College, Queen’s Taunton, Exeter School and West Buckland.    The team are looking to finish the season strongly, but have tough challenges ahead in the shape of Christ College Brecon (away), Exeter School (Devon Cup Final) and Taunton School.   Photograph:  U14 Rugby Team The U16 girls’ hockey team have had their best season yet, winning the West Devon Cup and the Plymouth Area National Schools’ Hockey Tournament – they came second in the County competition.Girls have a successful hockey season - 1/12/08Girls have a successful hockey season - 1/12/0802018 The U16 girls’ hockey team have had their best season yet, winning the West Devon Cup and the Plymouth Area National Schools’ Hockey Tournament – they came second in the County competition.   The U15s have won the Plymouth Schools’ Hockey League.  The team have been unbeaten this season, scoring 22 goals and only conceding one.   There have also been some great results against local schools.  The 1st X1 had good wins against Blundell’s and Ivybridge and drew against Kelly College.  The 2nd X1 scored a convincing win against Kelly and beat Stover’s 1st X1.  The U15s, U14s and U13s all beat Kelly College and Ivybridge and it was a clean sweep for the junior ages against Stover.  The U15s, U13s and U12s also beat West Buckland.    A number of girls are currently representing West Devon and are awaiting notice on County selection.  Head Girl, Celia Hayes, is already representing Devon U19s.Plymouth College 1st XV may have lost their unbeaten record, but they came out of this match with huge credit. Winning streak comes to an end for 1st XV - 27/11/08Winning streak comes to an end for 1st XV - 27/11/0801958 Plymouth College 3 – Truro College Rugby Academy 9  Plymouth College 1st XV may have lost their unbeaten record, but they came out of this match with huge credit.  Against opponents who boast a star studded line up, the smaller Plymouth College side tore into their opponents from the off, causing the visitors to withstand several telling line breaks and territorial pressure.    In a high tempo first half, the only points went to Plymouth, with James Burke slotting a straightforward penalty after Truro infringed in front of their posts.  Unfortunately other Plymouth chances were unable to be turned into points.  The second half saw Truro come out strong and their greater size started to tell with Plymouth players being forced to make tackle after tackle.  Possession for Plymouth was limited during the first 20 minutes of the second half and Truro levelled then took the lead with three penalty kicks.  Despite a valiant effort in the final quarter, Plymouth were unable to come up with the crucial score to secure what could have been a famous victory.  Credit must go to all the players for their commitment, courage and application during this match, but they should also take great heart from the fact that on another day they could have seized victory.  The big lesson from a match like this surely has to be that when games are tight every opportunity has to be taken. Plymouth College Preparatory School House Hockey was played this year at Brickfields, providing the girls with an opportunity to test their skills to the limit.Prep School House Hockey - 20/11/08Prep School House Hockey - 20/11/0802006 Plymouth College Preparatory School House Hockey was played this year at Brickfields, providing the girls with an opportunity to test their skills to the limit.  Sellon were deprived of their dynamic forward player, Hannah, and had to borrow players from other teams.  They played spirited games with some excellent play by Priscilla and Sophie but failed to score any goals. Sellon lost 2 and drew 1.  Wantage had the advantage of speed from Harriet and Melissa, and strong defence from Roxy and Aylish.  They all played really well and managed to draw against Sellon.  Wantage lost 2 and drew 1.  Downtown played exceptional hockey throughout the tournament.  They maintained an amazing streak right up until the final match.  Excellent play throughout by all players.  Downton won 2 and lost.  Pusey dominated all the matches they played with intelligent play by Phoebe, Lauren and Brooke in attack:  superb midfield play by Bella and excellent defence by Jojo.  All their efforts ensured that they won all their matches and were the tournament winners. Plymouth College successfully overcame the challenge of a huge North Devon College side to make it to the final of the Devon Schools Under 18 Cup. 1st XV make Devon Cup final - 20/11/081st XV make Devon Cup final - 20/11/0801998Plymouth College 12 – North Devon 0 Plymouth College successfully overcame the challenge of a huge North Devon College side to make it to the final of the Devon Schools Under 18 Cup.   In a tense game Plymouth held their nerve to secure a 12-0 victory thanks to tries from Ab Hamza and Alex Parford, and James Burke chipping in with one conversion.  That is not to say that the College had it all their own way.  Determined defence was necessary to keep North Devon off the scoresheet and they were unlucky not to be awarded a try in the second half. Plymouth’s front row should derive great satisfaction from their performance against bigger opponents.  They pressured their opponents relentlessly and were rewarded with a number of balls won against the head.  Again defence was good and again the fluidity of the off load game was pleasing.  However, some decision-making was still questionable and protection of the ball at breakdowns still needs to improve.  The laissez faire approach of the referee to the contact area did not help Plymouth and the more street-wise North Devon boys capitalised from being able to play on the edge and sometimes beyond without suffering at the hands of the official.  Plymouth College will next meet old rivals Exeter School in the final on Wednesday 3rd December at a venue to be confirmed.    Plymouth College First XV are still unbeaten. Plymouth College progressed to the 4th Round of the Daily Mail Cup with a hard-fought win over old rivals Truro School.Victory against Truro in Daily Mail Cup - 12/11/08Victory against Truro in Daily Mail Cup - 12/11/0801998 Plymouth College 18 – Truro School 12  Plymouth College progressed to the 4th Round of the Daily Mail Cup with a hard-fought win over old rivals Truro School.  Truro are always hard to beat, especially at their own ground, so to go down there and get the result made the afternoon all the more satisfying.  Plymouth’s strength lay in a dominant scrum and strong first line defence, although the excellent Truro back row frequently made big yardage.  When Plymouth upped the tempo of the game and forced the Truro side to defend under stress, they looked dangerous, resulting in points from the boot of James Burke.    However, the game seesawed as nerves played their part on both sides.  Plymouth fell behind briefly 12 – 11, but responded quickly with a converted try to lead.  Stalwart defence held Truro out for Plymouth to achieve an important victory.  The First XV remain unbeaten. James Burke, 17, has been selected to play for the England U19 cricket team. An upper sixth pupil and member of the Plymouth College 1st X1 since Year 10, James will join the team on tour in South Africa in January. England selection for Plymouth College cricketer - 20/11/08England selection for Plymouth College cricketer - 20/11/0801992 James Burke, 17, has been selected to play for the England U19 cricket team.  An upper sixth pupil and member of the Plymouth College 1st X1 since Year 10, James will join the team on tour in South Africa in January. Last season he represented England at U17 level when the team played New Zealand.   James has been a leading player since his early years at the school.  In 2003 it was reported that he was the first pupil in more than 20 years to score two centuries in one season at U12 level.  At age 14 he won Cricketer of the Year at the Devon Cricket Board Youth Awards and as well as England representation, he has also played for West of England and Devon teams.  He currently plays for Exmouth.   Also a member of the prestigious Somerset Cricket Academy, James has already been awarded a professional contract with Somerset, which will come into full effect when he leaves school in June.   Teacher in charge of cricket, Russell Chapman, said: “From his first years at Plymouth College James has shown great talent on the cricket pitch.  It has been very rewarding to watch his many successes and progress to the very top of the game.” The Plymouth College 1st XV stretched their season-long undefeated run to twelve with a clinical disposal of old rivals Kelly College. Plymouth College secure strong victory over Kelly College - 10/11/08Plymouth College secure strong victory over Kelly College - 10/11/0801993 Kelly College 17 – 47 Plymouth College.  The Plymouth College 1st XV stretched their season-long undefeated run to twelve with a clinical disposal of old rivals Kelly College.   Played at Plymouth Albion but treating the match as a home fixture, Plymouth set their intent early on, with some good pressure, converted into points by scrum half Harry Stephenson with a quickly taken penalty five meters out.   The match continued as it had begun, with Kelly never posing any real threat in attack. Tries came from captain Phil Beak, Abdullah Hamza, Anthony Comyn, Tom Burrell, Jamie O’Gallagher and Ben Tolan. Jamie converted five of his six attempts and James Burke got one from one.   It was a solid performance that got the job done, but the boys were disappointed to concede a slack try in the last phase of play. Joss Pinsent was the man of the match. Sarah Palmer, 17, has clinched the gold medal in the sixth form category of the Plymouth Schools Cross Country Championships held in Staddiscombe.Plymouth College runner is Plymouth Cross Country Champion - 19/11/08Plymouth College runner is Plymouth Cross Country Champion - 19/11/0801990 Sarah Palmer, 17, has clinched the gold medal in the sixth form category of the Plymouth Schools Cross Country Championships held in Staddiscombe.   Leading from the start, Sarah increased her lead to finish a good 20 seconds ahead of the second-placed runner.  Susie Kellagher was 7th in the same race and Kosuke Takeuchi was 9th in the sixth form boys’ event.  All three qualify for the South West Area Championships.   Sarah, who earlier this year took the Youth A Girls British Pentathlon Championships title, and Susie, are part of the Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon Progamme.  As well as running, the programme includes swimming, fencing, shooting and horse riding.   In the Year 10/11 category, Poppy Le Marechal took the bronze medal with Georgie Barrington finishing in 15th place.  Both girls are modern pentathletes and have also qualified for the South West event.   Further South West qualifiers are Emily Dinnis (another modern pentathlete), who came 8th in the Year 8/9 girls’ category and Dominic Day, who came 10th in the Year 8/9 boys’ event.   “Our runners did really well and I’m delighted that Sarah and Poppy came away with medals”, said teacher in charge of running, Phil Cragg.  “The weather was good but windy and although the ground was muddy it wasn’t too bad.  We’re now looking forward to the South West Championships, which will probably be in February.”   Photograph: Sarah Palmer and Poppy Le Marechal Haslemere, England: Two of Great Britain’s most iconic swimming figures had their British Junior short course records taken at the Haslemere Open as Plymouth College’s Sam Straughan set about two of the former marks held by Liam Tancock and Mark Foster.Plymouth College swimmer breaks British records - 17/11/08Plymouth College swimmer breaks British records - 17/11/0801984 Haslemere, England: Two of Great Britain’s most iconic swimming figures had their British Junior short course records taken at the Haslemere Open as Plymouth College’s Sam Straughan set about two of the former marks held by Liam Tancock and Mark Foster.  On day one of the meet, Straughan was to take the British Junior 50m Backstroke record down to 26.11, formerly Tancock’s 26.22 set in Sheffield back in 2000. On the second day of the meet, Foster’s 50m Butterfly twenty two-year standing of 25.48 set in Bonn in 1986 was clipped by the young Plymouth star to 25.47.  Straughan is part of the highly-acclaimed Plymouth Leander/Plymouth College swimming scholarship programme, recently plauded by Chris Martin, British Swimming’s Development Coach for having “perhaps the best set up in the UK for developing such swimmers”. Now in his second year in the scheme, the 15 year old GCSE student is showing great promise in a number of areas, having lowered the long course British Age Group records for 200m and 400m IM earlier in the year.  Jon Rudd, Director of Swimming at Plymouth College said “It’s really uplifting when you have athletes who take records from such luminaries as Mark and Liam, even though they are not Olympic events. He’s in good company on that record sheet and the fact that he has also set British records in long course middle distance IMs means that no-one will be pigeon-holding him too early, and that’s just how we would want it”.  Aspiring National and International swimmers interested in secondary school education and swimming scholarships with the UK’s leading swimming academy should contact the Director of Swimming on 0044 1752 203243 Plymouth College, in association with Plymouth Albion RFC, is offering a scholarship to a talented sixth form rugby player from the south west.Plymouth College launches sixth form rugby scholarship - 8/11/08Plymouth College launches sixth form rugby scholarship - 8/11/0801977 Plymouth College, in association with Plymouth Albion RFC, is offering a scholarship to a talented sixth form rugby player from the south west.  The successful player will have the opportunity to develop his rugby-playing career while at the same time be able to benefit from the wide range of academic, sporting and cultural opportunities available at the co-educational independent day and boarding school.   The first-class rugby programme at Plymouth College sees players taking part in a range of high-quality fixtures both locally and further a field, receiving intensive skills-based and fitness-orientated training programmes, and participating in major national tournaments and overseas tours which has seen the team travel to South Africa, South America and Australia in recent years - the next proposed tour will be to South Africa and Namibia in 2010.    As well as the opportunities on offer by being part of this established and highly-regarded team, the successful rugby scholar will also benefit from a mentoring programme with staff from Plymouth Albion RFC.  Graham Dawe, Chairman of Rugby at Plymouth Albion RFC said: “We at Albion will help by providing position-specific mentoring, advice and unit skills training”.  The Plymouth College 1st XV remain unbeaten so far this season with victories over Kelly College (51-13), Queen’s Taunton (40-12), Exeter School (14-3) and Bodmin College in the Daily Mail Cup (22-0) to name but a few.  Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards, said: “The launch of the rugby scholarship is a really exciting development for Plymouth College and means we can build on an already excellent, long-standing rugby tradition. “We hope that this scholarship will provide a talented youngster with the opportunity to complete their sixth form education in a diverse and challenging environment, while at the same time enabling them to fulfil their potential as a rugby player.”  Applications are welcome from eligible students with a proven playing background and suitable academic credentials to be successful in sixth form life at the school.  In the first instance, all applicants should contact Mrs Sharon Lambie, Headmaster’s Secretary, on 01752 203245 or <a href="mailto:slambie@plymouthcollege.com">slambie@plymouthcollege.com</a> for a prospectus and details of the application process. An outline of rugby-playing experience, achievements and why they feel they would be the right person to come to Plymouth College will be beneficial from all applicants.   Photograph: L to R Anthony Comyn (Plymouth College 1st XV), Richard Thompson (Plymouth College 1st XV Assistant Coach), Graham Dawe (Plymouth Albion Chairman of Rugby), Richard Edwards (Plymouth College Head of Rugby and 1st XV Coach) Plymouth College continue to enjoy success at First XV level. Victories have been secured over Kelly (51-13), Queens Taunton (40-12), Exeter School (14-3) and Bodmin College (22-0) in the Daily Mail Cup.1st XV rugby season goes from strength to strength - 27/10/081st XV rugby season goes from strength to strength - 27/10/080Plymouth College continue to enjoy success at First XV level. Victories have been secured over Kelly (51-13), Queens Taunton (40-12), Exeter School (14-3) and Bodmin College (22-0) in the Daily Mail Cup.  The side remains unbeaten with only the 10-10 draw against Truro (a game played in atrocious conditions and with several winning chances squandered) registered as not a win. Jawad Miklaszewicz and Anthony Comyn are both in the Devon U18 squad and Josh Tolan, Henry Slade, Jon Dawe and George Stephenson are in the Under 16 squad. Further down the school, all year groups are involved in county cup competitions.  The U 15s, U14s and U13s are well placed to progress to the latter stages of the West Devon Competition and the Under 16s and Under 18s are still in their respective County competitions. Hockey at Plymouth College has seen a good first half to the autumn term with Head Girl, Celia Hayes, being selected for Devon U19s. Ana Hampson, Nada Kahlil, Hettie Burrows, Livy Roper and Chloe Parford have all been selected for West Devon teams and await county trials in the spring.Regional selections and school wins for Plymouth College hockey players - 24/10/08Regional selections and school wins for Plymouth College hockey players - 24/10/0801967 Hockey at Plymouth College has seen a good first half to the autumn term with Head Girl, Celia Hayes, being selected for Devon U19s.  Ana Hampson, Nada Kahlil, Hettie Burrows, Livy Roper and Chloe Parford have all been selected for West Devon teams and await county trials in the spring.   The U15s have had a fantastic season to date and so far remain unbeaten.  They have beaten West Buckland, Exeter School, Kelly College, Ivybridge and Blundell’s. The U16s are the West Devon champions and will go to Exeter for the Devon final.  Other good results include the 1st team’s wins over Blundell’s and Stover, the 2nd X1’s 3-0 victory over Kelly College and both the U13s and U12s wins over West Buckland.   The second half of term will see block fixtures against Kelly College and Truro and age group matches against Ivybridge, Stover, Stoodley and Exeter.   Photograph: Celia Hayes Dominic Lyons, Ben Piggot, James Burke and Michael Haley are celebrating after becoming Plymouth U19 Badminton Champions. Plymouth College are U19 badminton champions - 22/10/08Plymouth College are U19 badminton champions - 22/10/080 Dominic Lyons, Ben Piggot, James Burke and Michael Haley are celebrating after becoming Plymouth U19 Badminton Champions.    After a series of matches this term, Plymouth College qualified for the final after coming top in their league.  With four teams through to the final (the top two from each league), Plymouth beat Ivybridge 6-2 in the semi-final before the defeating Devonport High School for Boys 5-3 in the final.   Badminton coach, Kevin Hall, said: “I’m delighted the boys won.  They’ve played exceptionally good badminton all term and came up against two very good teams in the final.  Well done to them all”. The 1st XII started the season well, with a bruising encounter against St Peter’s, Lympstone. Despite limited practice, the Plymouth College Prep team came away with an excellent 14 – 7 win. Tremendous defensive tackling by the whole team earned this result.Prep rugby has successful first half of term - 23/10/08Prep rugby has successful first half of term - 23/10/0801966 The 1st XII started the season well, with a bruising encounter against St Peter’s, Lympstone.  Despite limited practice, the Plymouth College Prep team came away with an excellent 14 – 7 win.  Tremendous defensive tackling by the whole team earned this result.  The Mount House game was a close game up until half time, after which our forwards decided to work hard in set and loose scrums winning us plenty of good possession.  Myles Pillage (Captain) scored two good tries.  Plymouth 33, Mount House 7.  We were completely outclassed by a superb Blundell’s team.  They dominated in all departments.  We did come back for a short while to score our only try but we were given a master class in running rugby.  Plymouth 7, Blundell’s 50.  We needed to bounce back from the Blundell’s game and this we did against St Michael’s (Tawstock).  With a few positional changes and some strong words from Mr Cottrell, the team were ready for this game.  We dominated the game from early on.  The forwards hunted for the ball and began to ruck well to give Jack Brazier good possession for the break.  Matthew Singh had a good game at fly half and the centres, Myles and Alex Pillage, worked well to move the ball wide.  Plymouth 50, St Michael’s 0.  Games to come in the second half of term:  Stover                     (Home) Exeter Junior           (Away) Wellington               (Home) Truro                      (Away) Kelly Prep               (Away) This year’s Preparatory School swimming gala for Years 4 to 6 saw no less than six school records broken. Held at the 25-metre pool at the Senior School, Downton House was the over-all winner on 146 points. Pusey House scored 127, Wantage House 120 and Sellon House scored 97 points.Years 4 to 6 swimming gala - 21/10/08Years 4 to 6 swimming gala - 21/10/0801964 This year’s Preparatory School swimming gala for Years 4 to 6 saw no less than six school records broken.  Held at the 25-metre pool at the Senior School, Downton House was the over-all winner on 146 points.  Pusey House scored 127, Wantage House 120 and Sellon House scored 97 points.   With races for each year group, the event involved front crawl, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke at 25 and 50 metres, as well as individual and team relays.   Breaking three school records (Individual medley, 25m fly and 50m front crawl) and being involved in five winning races including two relays, Myles Pillage won the Victor Ludorum.  For the girls, Poppy Tank broke one school record (50m front crawl) and won five races including two relays before being awarded the Victrix Ludorum.  Myles and Poppy were also part of the 4x50m relay team that broke a fifth school record.  Myles’ brother, Alex Pillage, broke the sixth school record for the 50m back crawl.   Other outstanding performances came from Harriet Mitchell, Charlotte Toptani, Ollie Lord, Annie Crocker and Jacob Keogh.   Headmaster, Chris Gatherer, said: “All the children took part with great enthusiasm and everyone tried really hard.  There were some tightly-fought races and some very impressive wins.  Well done to them all.”   Photograph: Myles Pillage and Poppy Tank A win over Exeter School in the annual President’s Cup fixture means that Plymouth College 1st XV are currently top of the SW Schools’ Rugby League and are placed fourth nationally.Plymouth College 1st XV currently top the SW Schools’ League - 14/10/08Plymouth College 1st XV currently top the SW Schools’ League - 14/10/0801958 A win over Exeter School in the annual President’s Cup fixture means that Plymouth College 1st XV are currently top of the SW Schools’ Rugby League and are placed fourth nationally.   Undefeated so far this season after nine games, Plymouth College has achieved victories over Blundell’s, QEH, King’s Taunton, Exeter School, Kelly College (51-13 in the Devon Cup) and Devonport High School for Boys.   The latest match against Exeter saw tries by Joss Pinsent and Abdullahi Hamza. It was branded as the biggest game of the season and the performance delivered justified that claim. King’s Taunton came down looking for a repeat of last year’s result, but Plymouth College showed their intentions from the start and made it clear that would not be the case. Plymouth College defeat King’s Taunton - 29/9/08Plymouth College defeat King’s Taunton - 29/9/080<h6 align="left">Final Score – Plymouth College 30, King’s College Taunton 13</h6> It was branded as the biggest game of the season and the performance delivered justified that claim.  King’s Taunton came down looking for a repeat of last year’s result, but Plymouth College showed their intentions from the start and made it clear that would not be the case.  Plymouth College took control of the game from the off and managed to score an early penalty.  However, the pressure was maintained and Harry Stephenson scored a try to go 10 – 0 up.  King’s then applied some pressure, but only managed to get 3 points to show for it.  Plymouth answered back by scoring another try through Jawad Miklazewicz to make the score 15 – 3.  King’s then managed to get their only try of the game after a period of sustained pressure.  However, Plymouth replied perfectly with a superb try with the ball going right through the hands to the winger, Tom Burrell, who finished the move off.  The half-time score was 20 – 10.  In the second half, despite the King’s coach shouting to his players that now the first half was over they should have got the bus journey out of their system, Plymouth continued to put pressure on their opponents.  Despite King’s putting 3 points on the board and their 2nd team providing vocal support from the sideline, James Steven went over the line after a sharp break by Harry Stephenson to make the score 25 – 13 with about 10 minutes to go.  Then, in the last play of the game, Alex Parford sold a dummy to get the final try.  Everyone put in very solid and encouraging performances, but the man of the match was Harry Stephenson who attacked well, kept his forwards working hard and led from the front in defence.  The victory felt all the better with the added bonus of revenge after last year. Plymouth College PE teacher, Emma Tremaine, thought she would practice what she preaches by taking part in her first Modern Pentathlon competition - Emma teaches girls’ games and is the equestrian coach for the school’s Modern Pentathlon programme.Modern Pentathlon success for Plymouth College PE teacher - 13/10/08Modern Pentathlon success for Plymouth College PE teacher - 13/10/0801954 Plymouth College PE teacher, Emma Tremaine, thought she would practice what she preaches by taking part in her first Modern Pentathlon competition - Emma teaches girls’ games and is the equestrian coach for the school’s Modern Pentathlon programme.   To give her extra motivation, Emma decided to use it as an opportunity to raise money for Clic Sargent and Great Ormond Street, the hospital where her nephew, Noah, was treated for Neuroblastome (a rare childhood cancer) - she raised almost £800 for the two charities.   Emma was the only senior lady taking part in the Sealions MPC and Whitgift MPC 28th Annual Pentathlon, where she scored a respectable 2088 points.  Achieving PBs in four of the five disciplines, Emma was delighted to receive her winner’s award from Sydney Olympic Modern Pentathlon Gold Medalist, Stephanie Cook.  The event also saw rising star and Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon Scholar, Sarah Palmer, come 2nd in the Youth A girls with 4788 points.   “I was quite nervous going into the event but I ended up really enjoying it”, said Emma.  “The first day (riding, fencing & shooting) was technical and great fun, but the second day (swimming & running) was a real slog and simply exhausting.  I was delighted to see Sarah do so well and think it was really useful to experience what it feels like for our Modern Pentathlon scholars when they take part in competitions.  I’m looking forward to doing another one soon!” Photograph:  Emma Tremaine (L) and Stephanie Cook (R) Plymouth College Rugby teams have enjoyed a successful opening to the new season.Good start to rugby season - 23/9/08Good start to rugby season - 23/9/0801936Plymouth College Rugby teams have enjoyed a successful opening to the new season.  The First XV are currently undefeated and have recorded impressive victories over Blundell’s and QEH.   Last Saturday six out of eight sides recorded wins over QEH, including the Under 15s who went all of last season without a Saturday victory!   “A huge well done goes to those boys who have worked really hard to improve their performances”, said Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards.  “The hard work done during pre-season training has already started to show its worth.  QEH has a bigger student body than us so these results are particularly pleasing”. The Under 14s are also currently unbeaten and have chalked up two good victories against QEH and Blundell’s. The 2nd XV recorded a tight-fought win over QEH, holding out impressively against bigger opponents to win 8-5 away from home. This is the first victory for the seconds against QEH for a number of years.   The West Devon Cup fixtures are now underway and at the senior end of school, the Devon Cup and Daily Mail Cup have also started.  The Under 18s defeated DHS 50-0 in the first round of the Daily Mail and face Exmouth CC in the opening round of the Devon Cup later this month. Photograph: 1st XV in actionPlymouth College pupils Julia Hayes, Ellie Hall and Katie Greenwood are celebrating after being part of the Devon girls cricket team that beat Wales in the ECB Girls National Cricket Cup Final on Saturday.Devon Girls are U15 National Cricket Champions - 22/9/08Devon Girls are U15 National Cricket Champions - 22/9/0801932Plymouth College pupils Julia Hayes, Ellie Hall and Katie Greenwood are celebrating after being part of the Devon girls cricket team that beat Wales in the ECB Girls National Cricket Cup Final on Saturday.  The team qualified for the final after beating Essex a couple of weeks a go.  A shaky start saw Devon score just 23 for 4 but the batting was turned around by Julia who scored 51 runs.  Ellie got a significant stumping as wicket keeper in the second half of the fielding and Katie has been a valuable member of the squad throughout the season with her batting and fielding. Devon's final score was 144-8 from 35 overs, getting Wales out for 85.    Photograph: Devon Girls U15 Cricket TeamPlymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Sarah Palmer, 17, has won the Youth A Girls British Youth Pentathlon Championships. Sarah is British Youth Pentathlon Champion - 5/9/08Sarah is British Youth Pentathlon Champion - 5/9/080 <img src="/media/12293/sarah-palmer---british-pent.jpg" width="300" height="200" alt="Sarah Palmer British Pentathlon Championship 2008"/> Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Sarah Palmer, 17, has won the Youth A Girls British Youth Pentathlon Championships.    First in the run by one minute, Sarah was consistent in all five disciplines – shooting, fencing, swimming, riding and running.  From Tavistock, she scored a total of 4640 points and achieved a PB in fencing.   The championships were held in Solihull with a very competitive field.  Also taking part from Plymouth College were Susannah Kellagher who came 6th overall in the Youth A Girls and 2nd in the ride, Georgina Barrington 6th in the Youth B Girls and 1st in the fence and ride, and Poppy Le Marechal (first Pentathlon competition) 14th in the Youth B Girls and 2nd in the run.   “I am really happy to win such a prestigious event”, said Sarah.  “I’ve been training really hard and I’m delighted it’s paid off.”   All the girls fence with Plymouth Fencing Club where they are team-mates of Modern Pentathlon Olympic silver medalist, Heather Fell.   “This was a fantastic achievement by Sarah”, said Plymouth College Director of Modern Pentathlon and Plymouth Fencing Club Head Coach, Andy Hill.  “All the girls competed really well and I was extremely proud of how they performed.”   Photograph: Sarah Palmer   For further information please call Stephi Baker on 01752 203241Cassie Patten, 21, a former swimming scholar at Plymouth College, has won a bronze medal in the 10K Open Water event in Beijing. An open water specialist, Cassie also made it to the 800m freestyle final in the pool last Saturday.Olympic bronze medal for Cassie! - 20/8/08Olympic bronze medal for Cassie! - 20/8/080 Cassie Patten, 21, a former swimming scholar at Plymouth College, has won a bronze medal in the 10K Open Water event in Beijing.  An open water specialist, Cassie also made it to the 800m freestyle final in the pool last Saturday.  This is the first time the 10K Open Water has been an Olympic event.  Cassie won a silver medal in last year’s Open Water World Championships.  Cassie joined Plymouth College in 2002 and was the school's first swimming scholar. Run in conjunction with Plymouth Leander, the elite swimming programme now boasts 25 swimmers who in the last couple of years have won World and European medals, competed in World Championship finals and have broken over 50 British and English records.  Since 2004, fifteen have been selected for Great Britain and/or England swim teams, and national records are held by Plymouth College swimming scholars in five different countries around the world.  Now based in Stockport, Cassie is still a member of Plymouth Leander and trains several weeks a year with the club.  “Everyone here is absolutely delighted for Cassie and very proud of her”, said Plymouth College director of swimming and Leander head coach, Jon Rudd.  “The school's elite swimming programme has gone from strength to strength and it is fantastic to see the years of hard work and determination by both Cassie and her coaches come to fruition with her Olympic medal.  I’m sure Cassie is just the first of many Olympians who will come from the Plymouth College/Plymouth Leander programme in the future.”  20/08/2008   For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241Plymouth College senior rugby squad has raised £400 for the charity, Jeremiah's Journey, by spending the day bag-packing at Marks and Spencers in Plymouth on Saturday 5th July. Rugby News1920Rugby News1 Plymouth College senior rugby squad has raised £400 for the charity, Jeremiah's Journey, by spending the day bag-packing at Marks and Spencers in Plymouth on Saturday 5th July. Thirty seven players embarked on a two-week tour of South Africa on Saturday 12th July. Jack Norris and Henry Slade have progressed to the final stages of the Devon Under 16 trials, where they will join existing squad members Josh Tolan, George Stephenson and Jon Dawe. 14/07/2008 Marija Jukneviciute, 17, has clinched a bronze medal in her native Lithuania in the National Indoor Show Jumping Championships. National Show Jumping Medal For Plymouth College PupilNational Show Jumping Medal For Plymouth College Pupil0 Marija Jukneviciute, 17, has clinched a bronze medal in her native Lithuania in the National Indoor Show Jumping Championships.   A Lower Sixth pupil at Plymouth College, Marija was one of fifteen riders to qualify for the 2-day event, which involved jumping at 1.3 metres and 1.4 metres.  Competing on 6-year-old stallion, Liverpulis, her competitors were all professionals at least 10 years her senior.   Marija has been riding for nine years and her goal is to take part in the 2012 and/or 2016 Olympics.  After completing her A Levels she hopes to study for a BSC (Hons) degree in Equine Management at The Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester.   Her other passion, acting, has had to take a back seat recently although she already has three films under her belt,  the most notable part being Helen Mirren’s lady-in-waiting in Elizabeth I – she was also the riding stunt double for the leading lady in Dungeons and Dragons II.   Marija’s next event is the Lithuanian Open Show Jumping Championships (Buddelei Cup) at the end of June, where she will be riding Liverpulis, Samolo and Lux Perpetua.   “I was really pleased with my bronze medal, particularly because of the experienced field I was competing against”, said Marija.  “Hopefully I can do as well at the Open Championships in June.”   13/05/2008   For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241 Some very competitive cricket was seen at Plymouth College when the College 1st XI played host to the prestigious MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) as part of their annual tour of Devon and Cornwall. Rain stops conclusion of MCC and Plymouth College cricket match Rain stops conclusion of MCC and Plymouth College cricket match 0 Some very competitive cricket was seen at Plymouth College when the College 1st XI played host to the prestigious MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) as part of their annual tour of Devon and Cornwall.   Batting first, MCC found themselves under considerable pressure at 39 for 5. Sam Cload (2 for 44) and Tim Price (2 for 57) were the pick of the College bowlers. However, a magnificent rear guard action from the MCC middle order saw J Cooper and L Hodgson take the score to 205 for 5 before declaring their innings closed.  Despite MCC’s recovery, Plymouth College coach Geoff Roderick was delighted with his team's commitment in the field.   In reply, the College began steadily but increased the momentum after 10 overs reaching 89 for 2 after 20. Harry Stephenson reached 43 before being caught at mid off but younger brother George took up the mantle hitting a magnificent 79 not out in subsequent overs. The score was 149 for 5 with 18 overs remaining when heavy rain caused the game to be abandoned.   13/05/2008   For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241 Plymouth College swimming scholar, Emma Wilkins, 17, found herself shaking hands with Gordon Brown after she was invited to attend a reception for the UK School Games at the House of Commons. The evening reception, hosted by former Sports Minister Richard Caborn and attended by a number of sports personalities, was preceded by a visit to Downing Street.Plymouth College Swimmer Goes To Downing StreetPlymouth College Swimmer Goes To Downing Street0 Plymouth College swimming scholar, Emma Wilkins, 17, found herself shaking hands with Gordon Brown after she was invited to attend a reception for the UK School Games at the House of Commons. The evening reception, hosted by former Sports Minister Richard Caborn and attended by a number of sports personalities, was preceded by a visit to Downing Street.   A lower sixth pupil and a member of the school’s elite swimming squad, Emma has been chosen as one of 12 inaugural UK School Games Champion Ambassadors, a programme that will honour on an annual basis the outstanding performers from the UK School Games, many of whom will be tipped as competitors at future Olympic and Paralympic Games.  The Games, at which Emma won a gold medal last year, replicate a major adult multi-sport competition with an opening and closing ceremony and an athlete’s village.    The ambassador-honour comes on the back of Emma’s first international selection, which will see her represent Great Britain at the World Youth Swimming Championships in Mexico in July.  This is followed swiftly by her first senior international selection when she will be part of the GB team in a tri-meet against Canada and France in early August.  She missed selection to this summer’s Olympic relay team by just one place.   “The invitation to the House of Commons and Downing Street came as a real surprise for Emma - she only knew about it a couple of days before”, said Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd.  “It is a great honour that she has been chosen as an ambassador for sport and gets to represent Plymouth College and Plymouth Leander in such a high profile way.  This is proving to be a very good year for Emma and she is very much looking forward to her first international events.”   20/05/2008 For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241 Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Sarah Palmer (Lower Sixth), has won the South West Biathlon Championships at Millfield School. Sarah Wins South West Biathlon ChampionshipsSarah Wins South West Biathlon Championships01896Plymouth College Modern Pentathlon scholar, Sarah Palmer (Lower Sixth), has won the South West Biathlon Championships at Millfield School.   With a personal best time of 10.49 in the 3,000 metre run, and 2.53 on the clock in the 200 metre swim, Sarah has qualified for the National Biathlon Championships being held in Macclesfield in May.   Her win came the day after she represented Devon, and came 56th out of 309 runners, in the Senior English Schools Crosscountry Championships in Liverpool. Fellow Plymouth College pupil, Poppy Le Marechal (Year 10), represented Devon in the Intermediate event.    Aged 17, Sarah is studying for A Levels in Maths, English, Economics and History.  In the future she hopes to go the Bath University, home of the Pentathlon Training Centre.   “It was great to win this competition”, said Sarah.  “I was particularly pleased to get a PB in the run and I’m really looking forward to attending the nationals.”   Ends   13/03/2008   For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241   The Plymouth College girls’ cricket team have won the U15 Devon Indoor Girls’ Cricket Tournament after convincingly winning all their matches. Plymouth College Girls are Devon Indoor Cricket Champions1848Plymouth College Girls are Devon Indoor Cricket Champions0 The Plymouth College girls’ cricket team have won the U15 Devon Indoor Girls’ Cricket Tournament after convincingly winning all their matches.    The tournament, sponsored by Lady Taverners, was held at Exeter University and included competitions at both U15 and U13 level.  Teams involved were Stoodley Knowle, South Dartmoor and Torquay Girls’ Grammar School.    The girls played four matches, with innings of eight overs. They received certificates and a trophy, as well an indoor cricket bag donated by Matthew Theedom, Cricket Development Manager for Devon.   Just days later the girls represented Devon at the South of England final, held at Northcroft Leisure Centre in Newbury.  Involving teams from all over the southern England, they won two of their three matches finishing in a very respectable 3rd position.   “The girls played really well in both competitions”, said coach, Tara Dodd.  “Their fielding was tight, batting strong and excellent bowling helped to keep the opposition’s runs down.  I’m delighted that they have won the Devon crown and they only just missed out on the regional title.  Hopefully next year they can make it all the way to the national final at Lords”. Photograph: U15 Devon Indoor Girls’ Cricket Champions, Plymouth College.   For further information, please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241   Sixteen-year-old Plymouth College swimming scholar, Sophie Collier, swam the English Channel just before Christmas…in the school swimming pool!Student Channels Efforts into Big Swim 1847Student Channels Efforts into Big Swim 0Sixteen-year-old Plymouth College swimming scholar, Sophie Collier, swam the English Channel just before Christmas...in the school swimming pool! The sixth form student swam 22 miles (35.2km), the distance across the Channel at its narrowest point, in 10 hours and 20 minutes.  She started at 7a.m. and, to the cheers of friends from Plymouth College and Plymouth Leander Swimming Club, kept on going until 5.20pm. Sophie, who won a bronze medal in the 5km race at this year's British Swimming Championships, said she had long held an ambition to swim the English Channel.  However, the task was not a simple one to organise due to time, logistics and support boats.  So, with a busy school and swimming timetable to fulfil, she settled for a pool swim covering the same distance. In order to give it some meaning and worth, Sophie started a sponsorship appeal.  At the time of the swim just under £1,000 had been pledged. The money will be split between the cancer care unit at Derriford Hospital and a new health centre being built in the Gambia by Plymouth College pupils. Sophie helped with the Gambian appeal in September, and she also carries out voluntary work at Derriford Hospital as part of her Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme activities. Sophie said she was delighted to have completed the difficult challenge. "It was hard going and after about 15 miles I was feeling really sore," she said. "I was joined then by some friends who kept me going, so thanks to them.  I also want to thank everyone who supported me through the sponsorship appeal.   “I’m really pleased I finished the distance. I never knew I could talk to myself for so long, about all sorts of rubbish, but it kept me going.  I'm happy I've done it but I won't be rushing to swim the real Channel now for a few years yet!"   For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241Never has the nationally renowned Plymouth College and Plymouth Leander swimming partnership been more clearly celebrated than at the English Schools Swimming Association National Finals.Plymouth Success in English Schools’ National Swimming Final1849Plymouth Success in English Schools’ National Swimming Final0 Never has the nationally renowned Plymouth College and Plymouth Leander swimming partnership been more clearly celebrated than at the English Schools Swimming Association National Finals. The 58th Inter Divisional Finals at the long course (50m pool) Manchester Aquatics Centre not only saw the South West (Division 5) team dominate the proceedings by a record winning margin, but 15 of the team and three of their five staff were taken from the Plymouth programme.   New English Schools records from Backstroke sensations Adam John and Zoe Hester were the highlights of the local success, with John notching up 59.36 to win the Intermediate 100m Backstroke in some style. The former record was that of Marco Loughran (1:00.13) set in 2004. Zoe Hester was also to ensure an English Schools title as she destroyed the opposition in the Intermediate 100m Backstroke, her time of 1:04.43 nearly a full second inside the former record set by Lauren Collins in 2005.   Callum Murphy was to make it three individual wins for Plymouth athletes as he set about the Junior 100m Freestyle, impressing tremendously with 56.34 to miss the English Schools record by only 0.11. All three Plymouth College-based gold medallists have already received their England selection letters to represent their country in the 37th WISE Home International in Crawley during March next year, where they will face Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Plymouth College swimmers also brought home three individual silver medals and one bronze.   In the relays, Plymouth swimmers were part of three gold medal-winning teams, six silvers and one bronze.  Adam John was part of the Intermediate 200m Medley relay team, which saw them smash the existing English record set in 2002 and in the Senior 200m Medley, Ben Clark was part of the team that knocked 0.6 of a second off the existing record.   Plymouth College Director of Swimming, Jon Rudd, said: “For Plymouth College swimmers to swim inside five English Schools’ records at this meet is quite remarkable. Our swimmers have come away from Manchester with 17 National medals across the two days and of the six team captains selected by Division 5, one for each age group and gender, four of them were from Plymouth College. We will now wait and see if any further Plymouth swimmers are added to the WISE relay teams”. For further information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241