Wildcats dominate in four-team tournament (From Barry And District News)

Wildcats dominate in four-team tournament

WITH THE season drawing to an end, Barry Wildcats Lacrosse Club were invited to a quadrangular lacrosse tournament in Trowbridge, Wiltshire on July 11. The tournament was organised by Bath Lacrosse Club, and teams from Bath, Portsmouth, Penarth and Barry were vying for the under-15 Men's Lacrosse Trophy.

In a round robin league to determine semi-final places, Barry beat Portsmouth 6-3, Bath 7-3 and Penarth 3-0. A semi-final win against Portsmouth saw them up against local rivals Penarth in the final. The ever-improving Wildcats had kept their best till last, with a convincing win 9-0.

In a tremendous team performance, Barry, who were representing the Welsh Centre of Development, were the only unbeaten team and were duly awarded the Inaugural Trophy.

This season has seen a marked improvement in skill levels by the young Wildcats, and club membership is now at over 50 players. The Welsh Lacrosse Association and the Vale of Glamorgan Sports Development Unit are to be thanked for their encouragement and help in setting up lacrosse development in the Vale primary schools, one of which, Barry Island Primary School, had three members selected for the team. Also, with permission from the organisers, Barry were allowed to play three young women, one of whom scored seven goals during the tournament.

Barry have included a young player from Cardiff in their squad. His quality of play in all of the games proved vital and the Barry club are indebted to him for his contribution.

The travelling party of 50 included Welsh lacrosse director of development; Chris Wills and development coach Tony Higginson. Both were extremely impressed with the quality of Barry's play. A special mention for Welsh Coach Ceri Frost who has spent some time knocking the Barry youngsters into shape.

A big thank you must go to Nik Roberts of Bath for organising the tournament and the Barry families for turning out in force to support the Wildcats.