Upton pupils visit Fast5 Netball Championships at the 02

Upton pupils with Lindsay Keable

Children from Upton Junior School in Broadstairs have been to the British Fast5 Netball Championships, the first tournament of its kind, hosted by England Netball.

As well as enjoying the thrilling competition at London’s 02 Arena, the Upton sports ambassadors – pupils who help shape how sport runs at the school – met an England star.

International netball player Lindsay Keable, who is also a recognised coach, was on hand to have a quick chat with the pupils and pose for photographs with them.

The event featured teams including Loughborough Lightning, Surrey Storm and Hertfordshire Mavericks, all of which included international players in their squad.

Fast5 is a faster and high scoring game of standard netball with different points zones on the court (1, 3 and 5) allowing for games to be changed with a single goal. The power play added an extra bonus with double points being scored for two minutes.

The children supported Loughborough Lightning from the start and were rewarded with seeing their team lift the trophy.

Scott Tift is Head of Sport at Upton. He said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to be part of a new and exciting event and the children had a brilliant time. As well as being our sports ambassadors, they were excellently behaved ambassadors for our school.

“Getting to meet one of the inspirational stars of England netball was a real bonus and a great way to end a memorable day.”