Sport Midseason Round Up
We’re officially halfway through the sporting season, and what a journey it’s been for our competitive teams so far! Showing incredible energy, commitment, and teamwork, the momentum is building for an exciting second half, where the stakes get even higher.
We spoke to the coaches to get the low down on their teams’ performances so far and what they are looking forward to next.
Men’s Rugby
It’s been a mixed but promising first half of the season for the Men’s Rugby team, with hard-fought wins, narrow losses, and strong leadership from captain Maddox L (also captain of Surrey County U18s) helping the squad develop real cohesion from a group of talented individuals.
Head of PE and Sport and rugby coach, Dani Knight, noted:
We’ve seen a strong structure and shape take place in the last few games with tries that are real team tries – it’s been really enjoyable to watch.”
And the team is eager to build on this progress, turning those close losses into victories in the coming weeks. Of course, no update on the men’s team would be complete without acknowledging the legendary away-day bus karaoke that continues to set the tone for their matchday spirit.
Women’s Rugby
The Esher/Godalming combined Women’s Rugby team has once again formed a successful and spirited squad. With four complete newcomers to rugby showing remarkable progress, the team has already taken on three academy sides—Oaklands/Saracens, City of Oxford/Ealing Trailfinders, and Worthing/Harlequins—improving with every match and delivering a standout open-play try against Worthing. A visit from England Roses player, Jess Breach, provided a huge boost of inspiration, and the team now looks ahead with confidence to the remaining Association of Colleges (AoC) league fixtures and a strong finish in the end-of-season 7s tournaments, where they return as reigning Surrey Schools Sevens champions.
Men’s Football
Men’s Football 1s: This season saw the Men’s First team make the jump up to T1 of the Tactics League after winning the T2 South League last season. Moving into the top league has required us to make some long journeys as far away as Weymouth! We are a massively new team this season, with only a couple of second year players. The season started a bit rough, getting knocked out of the English Schools Football Association (ESFA) Cup and the League Cup. League games have fared a little better as we currently sit third in the league, with three wins and two losses. We have shown some strong performances in the league, and hopefully we can continue that good work in the new year and make a strong push in the second half of the season.
Men’s Football 2s: Men’s 2nds have had a really solid start and we are wrapping up the term at the top of the table. Defensively, we are very strong with an excellent team spirit and work ethic. Our hope for the rest of the season is to continue to build on the success we have already had, win the league and get as far as we can in the cup.
Men’s Football 3s: The Men’s 3rd Football team has built a strong sense of spirit and togetherness this season, under the captaincy of second-year student Saul H. They’ve made an impressive start, winning both of their league fixtures so far, along with a mix of results in friendlies and cup matches. The squad features a well-balanced blend of first- and second-year players who are really enjoying their football with lots more games to come.
Women’s Football
Currently leading the league with a solid four-point advantage, the Women’s Football team has delivered an outstanding first half of the season.
Coach Charlie commented: “The squad has been a fantastic group to work with. Each player’s personality and ability truly stand out, and their resilience after setbacks is remarkable—they respond to defeats with determination and come back stronger in the next game. Our goal is clear: to win the school league, and the team’s energy and commitment will drive us toward that.”
Men’s Basketball
It’s been a highly positive season so far for our Men’s Basketball team. The squad has delivered some standout performances across the board, with several emerging talents showing real potential. However, the true strength of this group doesn’t lie in any single star player or specific line-up. Their advantage comes from a consistently high defensive standard and a roster full of players ready to step up and take their shot whenever called upon.
The team has put together an impressive run, recording six wins and just one loss heading into the final two fixtures of the regular season. After the New Year, attention will turn to the play-off format, where the squad aims to continue its strong momentum.
Basketball coach Jason Tanega said: “What’s great about this team is that even with all our success, we aren’t comfortable or complacent. The players keep pushing each other to even greater heights as we continue our pursuit of silverware.”
Netball
What a season it’s been for the two Netball teams so far! The players have shown incredible commitment, energy, and positivity, really coming together as supportive teammates. Their connection on court is stronger than ever, and it’s clear they’re upping their game play with smart moves around the goal circle and sharper tactics.
Cate Hamilton, coach of the Netball first team said “What’s most impressive is they are embracing a growth mindset, reflecting after each match, and finding ways to improve tactics and play to their strengths. The second half of the season promises even more exciting netball and continued progress. Watch this space – big things ahead! Go Esher!”
Mixed Hockey
This season had been a journey of growth, resilience and real progress. Although we faced our share of tough losses, the players consistently demonstrated impressive skill, determination and teamwork. All players have showed clear development and as a team, they have become more connected and competitive. A special mention goes to our captain, Oscar, whose standout performances helped drive the team forward, highlighted by an incredible four-goal match- setting the standard for the squad. Coaching this team has been a genuine pleasure and I am excited to see what the next half of the season holds.