USK Netball club have completed another successful season in the Wye Valley Netball League, with the first team completing an impressive unbeaten season to win overall, and the second team finishing their determined campaign as runners up in the plate competition.

Highlights for the Usk firsts team this year included a thrilling match which went to the wire at 39-38, against Monmouth firsts earlier in the season, and as always, strong sided matches against Monmouth School for Girls first team in both back-to-back fixtures.

Usk maintained their team spirit, adaptability and enjoyment of the game throughout the season which helped the side come out on top. Coach/Captain Molly Pike said, “I’m delighted with the commitment the girls have shown this year. We set our sights high and kept working hard for that elusive unbeaten season! I couldn’t ask for more from such a great set of team mates and I’m so thrilled that our efforts paid off. We last won the league in 2013, so it’s great to be back at the top.”

Usk seconds also enjoyed a thrilling end to their season, going unbeaten since Christmas. The seconds started the season as a developing side with a mixed bag of results, but hit their stride in the latter part of the season. The late flourish wasn’t enough to secure them the Plate title, but the impressive run of form secured the runners up position. The side has eyes on the Cup section of the league next year. Carolyn Phillips has worked tirelessly all season for this promising and continually developing team, and the club would like to thank her for her unwavering dedication to the club and captaincy.

The Wye Valley Netball League covers East Monmouthshire and the West of the Forest of Dean, offering both high level and improver level netball to girls and women from 14 years plus. This year’s league competition was as strong as ever, with weekly matches showcasing local women’s sport at its best.

The Wye Valley Netball League AGM and Awards Evening will be held on Thursday, May 17 this year. Look out for information on all the award winners after the event.

With 14 teams in the league, Netball in the area is going from strength to strength as more and more girls sign up to play for their local club sides and women return to this fantastic team sport. Womens’ sport is thriving, with campaigns such as #thisgirlcan helping highlight the benefits of getting active and fit. It also shows how accessible Womens’ sport can be at all levels. Get out there and get involved!

Molly Pike added, “Usk Netball Club is a really friendly and welcoming sports club. We are always open to new members, whether you’re a seasoned professional aiming for our first squad or newcomer to the sport looking to get active. Lots of our members are just getting back into Netball, there’s something for all ability levels. We’re recruiting for a third team next season and we’ll be training throughout the summer in preparation for next season. Come along and get involved!”

If you would like to find out more about joining Usk Netball Club, email: [email protected]