THIS year saw 35 prep schools nationwide enter the IAPS U11 rounders tournament and Amesbury School was one of the entrants.

A local fixture in the 2^nd round saw Amesbury play St Hilary's, Godalming, with Amesbury winning 18-12.  This result left Amesbury facing St Catherine's, Bramley, in the 3^rd round.  Again Amesbury secured a convincing victory 20-6.

Last year's tournament winners, Wellesley House School, Kent, were the opponents in the quarter final.  Amesbury had played Wellesley House last year and lost so were apprehensive about the rematch but were out for revenge.  At half time, Amesbury were losing 18-32 and defeat seemed the likely result.  However, some fantastic batting in the second innings saw Amesbury score a 67-43 victory in a match lasting for four hours.  A place in the national finals day was the reward.

A team of 10 girls accompanied by staff and parents travelled to Ranby House School, Nottinghamshire, for this exciting occasion.  Millfield Prep School, Somerset, were the opposition in the semi final.  Again a tough first half saw Amesbury behind by five rounders at half time.  More attacking batting and tight fielding saw Amesbury come back and take the lead, finally winning 27-25.

The final was now between the hosts, Ranby House and Amesbury.  Despite some good play Amesbury did not play at their best and struggled to perform at the level of the earlier matches.  Amesbury lost the final 11-12 (five still in).

However, reaching the national final and becoming the national runners-up was an outstanding performance and reflected the girls' determination to succeed and the good team spirit that had developed during the season.

 Haslemere Herald 23 July 2004