As we finish the first term of 2025, Steve May, Director of Sport, reflects on the achievements of Oakham’s athletes. They have had an impressive start to the year across a range of sports, showcasing resilience, teamwork, and skill.
Badminton Success
A fantastic victory for the badminton team at Stamford added to Oakham’s sporting triumphs, demonstrating their hard work and commitment.
Rugby Sevens Glory
The U16s Rugby team put in a stellar performance to win the Gresham’s 7s Cup competition. After progressing through the pool stages—beating Langley, Framlingham, and Norwich but falling to Bedford—they found their form in the semi-final against Woodlands before defeating Bedford 21-7 in a decisive final.
The U14s also had reason to celebrate, winning the Gresham’s 7s Plate competition. After an opening win against Woodlands, they faced tough losses to Uppingham and Gresham’s before being placed in the plate competition. A strong 29-14 victory over Norwich in the final secured their silverware.
Netball Success at Regionals
The 1st VII Netball team had an outstanding day at the regional rounds of the National Competition at Repton School. Winning all their pool games, they then triumphed 17-7 in the semi-final against LGS before overcoming Repton 13-8 in the final, securing the title of Regional Champions and a place at Nationals.
The U12 A and B are having a successful first half of term winning over 75% of their games.
Cross Country Excellence
A brilliant start to the year for the cross-country squad, with Beth and Will Griffiths delivering superb performances to win at the County Championships.
Football Resilience and Progress
The Girls’ 1st XI have shown great determination this season, bouncing back from an early heavy loss with a thrilling 5-5 draw against Uppingham. Meanwhile, the Girls’ U16A side progressed to the quarter-finals after a superb 4-1 comeback win against GSAL, setting up an away fixture against Surbiton on 26th February.
On the boys’ side, the 1st XI and 2nd XI have been in dominant form, both topping their leagues with four wins from four matches.
Hockey and Golf Success
The Boys’ and Girls’ U13A hockey teams advanced from their county rounds to the Midlands rounds, set to take place at Rugby School on 14th March. Meanwhile, the Boys’ U18 Golf team secured a thrilling 74-72 victory over Wellingborough, progressing to Round 2 of the National Plate.
Exciting Oakham 7s Tournament
On Sunday, 2nd March, Oakham will host its biggest-ever rugby tournament, featuring U18 boys and girls, U16 boys and girls, and U14 girls. It promises to be a fantastic showcase of school rugby talent. More details can be found at www.oakham7s.co.uk.
Sports Scholars & Talent Development
Sports Scholars have focused on nutrition this term, with Forms 3, 4, and 5 participating in workshops on food choices in the Barraclough. The Sporting Talent Project continues to thrive, featuring insightful talks from Dr. Simpson and pupil leaders. J Flint recently delivered an inspiring session on pre-performance routines for goal-kicking and the 400m start.
Looking Ahead: Tours and Sporting Initiatives
As we plan for the 2025/26 academic year, we are exploring tour opportunities, including the Global Schools Challenge for football, rugby, hockey, and netball, a potential trip to South Africa, and a Lower School Hockey and Rugby tour to the Channel Islands during the October half-term. Parental feedback on these options is welcomed.
Match Day Programme
The new match day programme has been well received, and feedback is always welcome to enhance the Oakham sporting experience further. View the Match Day Programme.
If there is anything that you wish to discuss with Steve May regarding sport please feel free to get in touch: SJM1@oakham.rutland.sch.uk
