Putting the Sting into Summer

Sonning Stingers have seen a couple of firsts over the past few weeks.

Our Under 11s had their first tournament at Royal Ascot and if determination and team play was the only factor you won a game on - they were definitely medal contenders however, they managed to score in each of their games - amazing for their first tournament against experienced opposition.  But in true Stingers style, on Thursday 20th they were at Binfield and managed to win 2 out of the 3 games - against a very new Finchampstead and a tough opposition in hosts Binfield.  The girls are buzzing and training this week saw a number of wooden bats appearing....and demands for more fixtures.  The parents were smiling - the girls were beaming - it was a great reason to stay up way past their bedtimes.

Rain has stopped play too many times for the Seniors.  The entry into hardball has seen only one of the HCWCL fixtures being played and the first softball tournament of the year took place on 31st May - and yep - it was hot.

It must be something about Binfield - we had no real expectations as we turned up to the softball tournament especially as training has been limited, our numbers slightly depleted but we won all 3 games!  Binfield are fantastic hosts, the women in the league are friendly, fun, competitive but we all want to be there to be involved....Winning is a bonus....it's kinda nice too but being part of a team and the enjoyment we get from the sport is what it is all about for us.

Tuesday saw us host close rivals Wargrave in our first Super 8s game.  With some of our team only ever having played hardball in the odd Sunday friendly or at Senior school level and such limited amount of training opportunities over the past 12 months, we were all a little apprehensive to say the least.  Wargrave sported a number of ex-county players and being an established women's set up - we feared a battering.  It must be something in the name Stingers - maybe we take the Sting out of others for whilst we got some lessons in fielding, we still managed a healthy score but not enough - Wargrave put on a strong batting performance to seal the victory.

Without the coaching team - we would not have developed anywhere near as far as we have and we thank all involved.  Our constant throughout has been our two youngest members - Alexander Fleming and Michael Longridge.  Michael has also led sessions with the U11s with myself and Matt supporting his delivery of sessions.  Gary, Dan and Andrew - again - thank you for easing the team into facing their first hard ball and sharing your knowledge with us.  

We haven't finished yet - the summer is young!  If you think you would like to give the sport a try - get in touch.  Drop me a line or call 07831238784

Some photos for your perusal of an U11 net session and the Seniors games