Little League Summer Sports Report Round 4 and IPSHA Swimming Carnival

I am pleased to share with you the positive results of our recent sporting fixtures. The Year 5/6 basketball teams put on a dazzling display of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship, defeating Newington in every game. Our young athletes showed great determination and passion for the sport, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.

Our water polo team also continues their impressive development with yet another resounding victory. Their hard work and dedication are clearly paying off, and we are thrilled to see the progress they are making as a team. Furthermore, our 3B Master Blasters beat a strong Kings team, showcasing the rewards of their diligent training. Finally, our Tennis A’s faced a tough challenge against Knox, but they managed to clinch a tight victory in the end. The level of sportsmanship shown across all games was exemplary, and we commend all our students for their respectful and gracious behaviour. We are thrilled to see our young athletes thrive both on and off the court, and we are looking forward to supporting them as they continue to develop their skills and passions for the remainder of the summer season.

Yours in Sport,

Mr James Roughan.

IPSHA Swimming and Diving Carnival

The Cranbrook swimmers performed exceptionally well at the 2023 IPSHA Swimming Championships. Many achieved personal bests and the Boys 11-13 years Freestyle relay team came in third in their division. Ziggy Day also stood out, finishing 9th in the 50 metre backstroke. Congratulations to all the swimmers who represented Cranbrook and were part of the IPSHA training squad. Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and we are proud of your accomplishments. We encourage all swimmers to continue their training through Autumn and Winter.

Basketball

Basketball Year 5/6 As – Cranbrook 36 defeated Newington 24

Cranbrook had a decisive victory over Newington in their recent match. Van G was in top form, scoring numerous layups and leading the team’s offensive charge. Rahul W also played a crucial role in their win, demonstrating impressive defensive skills with his shot-blocking abilities. Additionally, Jamie R’s all-around performance contributed significantly to Cranbrook’s success on the court.

Basketball Year 5/6 Bs – Cranbrook 34 defeated Newington 11

In a decisive victory, Cranbrook defeated Newington with a final score of 34-11. Loic B and Jake C demonstrated impressive skills on both offense and defense, contributing to the team’s success. Charlie R led the scoring with support from David A and Harry R, who also played well throughout the game.

Basketball Year 5/6 Cs – Cranbrook 20 defeated Newington 15

The Cranbrook 5/6 Cs had a hard-earned victory over Newington, winning 20-15. Despite a slow start, the dynamic trio of Loic B, Raph G and Eamonn R stepped up by converting several consecutive points in the second half, leading the team to victory. Additionally, Heath C-G persistent and gritty defence was a standout performance that was a pleasure to watch. The team’s tenacity and teamwork proved key to their success. Well done boys!

Basketball Year 5/6 Ds – Cranbrook 19 defeated Newington 16

The Cranbrook 5/6 Ds had a hard-fought victory over Newington, winning 19-16. Much of the team’s success was carried by Rhidian S accurate jump shots and Spike T’s impressive strength inside the box. Although it was a close match, the boys worked well together under pressure to get away with a hard-fought win. Moving forward, the boys need to focus on improving their defensive by staying more alert to avoid giving away easy points. Well done boys!

Basketball Year 5/6 Es – Cranbrook defeated Newington

The Year 5/6 E’s played an intense, hard-fought and exciting contest with Newington at Dangar this week. Both teams were defending at a high level, with each player spreading out to take responsibility for their own defensive matchup. As a result of good defence, the scores stayed low throughout the entire match for both teams. Oliver K. had a strong all-round performance, making smart decisions with the ball and staying engaged on defence. The intensity increased after half time, with both teams digging in to try to win the game. Cranbrook’s improved offence in this intense final period allowed them to generate better shots to secure a well-deserved win.

Basketball Year 5/6 Fs – Cranbrook defeated by Newington

The Year 5/6 F’s had a tough game against Newington at Dangar this week. All the boys bought into defence, showing their engagement by keeping their hands up, communicating with their teammates and locking down individual matchups. Rhys A. was a particular standout in this area, making life difficult for Newington ball-handlers in the backcourt and coming up with multiple steals. Ball-handling and decision making was an area that required improvement, with Cranbrook struggling at times to generate makeable shots at the basket. Newington came away with the win this week, but not due to any lack of effort on Cranbrook’s part.

Basketball Year 5/6 Gs – Cranbrook 15 defeated Newington 5

The boys started aggressively from the outset, getting to the basket at will and collecting many offensive rebounds, which was characteristic of the overall game plan given to the boys. Special mention to Ryan M and Hugo S for an outstanding sustained effort on both offense and defence.

Basketball Year 5/6 Hs – Cranbrook 5 defeated by Newington 19

The boys were sadly outmatched and got tired, allowing Newington to pull ahead early and stay ahead throughout the course of the game. However, in the latter stages of the second half, the boys made a run bringing the game to within 5 points. Sadly, towards the end the game was out of reach.

Basketball Year 3/4 As ­­­­­- Cranbrook 18 defeated Knox 12

The As won an eventful game against Knox that saw both sides trading baskets throughout. Santiago D in his makeshift jersey led the team in points but also acted as a focal point for the a’s attack. Gus T was unbeatable on the boards out rebounding his opposite every time and kicking it out to his playmakers Ben H and William S. Frank T was a rim protector on the weekend and had many blocks forced turnovers. Overall a solid performance by Cranbrook who won 18-12.

Basketball Year 3/4 Bs – Cranbrook 12 defeated Knox 8

The Bs won in a close game against Knox 12-8 which featured many crazy baskets from Kaiden S and Teddy B. Wolf T continued to be feisty snatching rebounds getting blocks and out muscling his opposition. Aarav S continued to lead the game as a fluent passer and floor space dishing the ball to Teddy B, Woody V H W and others. Great win for the Bs.

Basketball Year 3/4 Cs – Cranbrook 10 defeated by Knox 12

The Cranbrook Cs were surprised by a lot more challenging Knox team and went down early. However, a strong second half led by Leo R and Jamie S enabled us to climb back into the game where it was then decided in the last minutes. Despite the strong effort from the boys Knox won 12-10 however the ambition to fight back and the relentlessness of the Cranbrook boys was the true highlight of the game. Knox were led by one player who couldn’t miss however in the second half the boys made it their number one priority to stop him and held him to only 2 points. Overall, the Cs were unfortunate, but they have nothing to be ashamed for with their performance.

Basketball Year 3/4 Ds – Cranbrook 40 defeated Knox 0

The Cranbrook Ds played phenomenal against Knox winning 40-0. The whole team played suffocating full court defence leading to many consecutive steals and layups from Eddie C and Liam S. Eddie C led the team with 14 points and was a handful for the Knox defence. Liam S dribbled the entire court swerving through the defence and as a result was able to find himself easy shots. The whole team contributed to the monster 40pt score with 7 players scoring at least once during the game. The D’s had amazing chemistry and worked together to make the game as hard as possible for Knox, which they did.

 Basketball Year 3/4 White 1 – Cranbrook 1 defeated by Knox 13

It was a tough day at the office for White 1, as their slow start to the game put them in an inescapable hole. The lack of transition defence allowed Knox to get open looks at the basket, and they were talented enough to convert. Cranbrook eventually awoke from their slumber and stemmed the tide, yet their offense could not seem to find a rhythm. Hamish F again displayed heart when scrapping for contested possessions, while Wren L scored our loan point from the free-throw line. Nathaniel S W also had some bright moments. Next week Cranbrook will be better served coming to the game ready to go and expecting to win.

Basketball Year 3/4 White 2 – Cranbrook 18 defeated by Knox 6

White 2 continued in their winning ways last Saturday morning, fundamentally dismantling Knox at home in the Dangar Gym. It was another week of improvement for White 2, as they bounced from strength to strength, with Alfie L B’s lockdown defence creating opportunities for James A to get out in transition and get the ball to Alexander P and Albert L. James C was making a living on the offensive glass, cleaning up the scraps for second chance points. Eric R was strong in his first game back. White 2 are an absolute pleasure to coach, as they move the ball selflessly and are always open to feedback, which they then implement into their game. All members of White 2 should be very proud of their performance and growth as a team this year, and if they stay committed, certainly have a bright future in the Cranbrook basketball program. 

Basketball Year 3/4 Blue 1 – Cranbrook defeated Knox

Blue 1 had put on an excellent performance last Saturday morning. The boys played excellent team defence, ensuring there were no easy opportunities for Knox to convert near the hoop. On the offensive end, Will A controlled the pace of the game with ball in hand, allowing Thomas C, Sammy I and Aiden G to score in bunches. The boys appeared to be enjoying the game, as everyone got an opportunity to get touches in the flow of the offense due to the team’s superior ball movement. Blue 1 is a great group and will definitely have more wins in the future if they maintain their current style of play.

Basketball Year 3/4 Blue 2 – Cranbrook defeated Knox

Blue 2 played outstandingly in their clash with Knox. The game started slow, as Cranbrook were initially on the back foot against a tall Knox outfit. Eventually the boys warmed into the game, With Bailey K showing commitment, diving on loose balls and defending admirably. Ted W, handled the basketball well and created open shots for Charlie W and notably Harrison H, who followed up his game from last week with another sublime performance. The sportsmanship of Blue 2 must also be recognised, as they were very gracious in their win and played the game with great spirit.

Cricket

Year 6A Cricket – Cranbrook 36 defeated by Newington 82

Captain Emile G won the toss against Newington and opted to bat first on a green and dewy wicket.

Arthur D was unlucky to be bowled after a ball jagged back sharply off the pitch. He departed for just 1(3). Emile G came to the crease and put a nice partnership together with Emmanuel, but a mix up left both batsmen stranded at one end and Emmanuel was run out for 2(6).

George A started watchfully and both he and Emile were unlucky not to score more boundaries with excellent shots finding fielders on several occasions. Both Emile 10(19) and George 7(18) were out caught to sharp catches in the same over and Cranbrook were in trouble at 4/26 from 8 overs.

Alistair T and Patrick G came to the middle and tried to get the run rate moving, but wickets kept tumbling. Alistair was bowled for 2(5), Zach S played a cracking shot for 4, but was then struck on the pads trying to work a ball to the leg side and given LBW for 5(7). 

Charlie R 0(4) came and went, nicking off to a good ball that was pouched by the keeper. Finally, it was Patrick G and Jasper L desperately trying to pull the rabbit out of the hat against a Newington attack full of confidence.

Unfortunately for Cranbrook, Patrick was caught next over for 2(5), which brought Cranbrook’s innings to a close – all out for 36 in the 12th over.

The boys were disappointed with the batting performance, but it gave everyone an opportunity to take something away from the game to work on.

The Newington innings started well for Cranbrook, with solid starts from both of the opening bowlers Emile G (2 overs – 1 maiden – 2 runs – 0 wickets) and Arthur D (2 overs – 12 runs – 0 wickets). With the first 3 overs only going for 3 runs.

Jasper L (1 over – 7 runs – 0 wickets) and Alistair T (2 overs – 17 runs – 0 wickets) bowled well and their crafty spin produced a couple of catching and run out opportunities, but unfortunately with the outfield drying up and the Newington batters growing in confidence, a few boundaries started to flow.

The small total of 36 proved a little too hard to defend and Newington cruised to victory in the 7th over with all 10 wickets in hand.

A tough day at the office for Cranbrook, but the boys took the loss on the chin and have resolved to work hard next week on occupying the crease, staying patient and positive in their mindset.

Year 6B Cricket Cranbrook 86 defeated Newington 56

The 6B’s had a convincing win on the weekend, beating Newington by 30 runs. Batting first, Alexander M and Raff anchored the innings, with Raff hitting 6 boundaries in a well worked 27*. Owen C and Bondi M then finished off the innings in style to take us to 4/86. In reply, Steven H, Alexander M, Jackson P and Luca C bowled well, putting lots of pressure on the Newington batsmen. Jackson P and Teddy C then finished up the innings to roll Newington for 56. However, the main highlight was the fielding, with three direct hit run outs and a few good catches. 

Year 5A Cricket – Cranbrook 132 defeated Scots 112

The 5A’s continued their journey to a flawless season after a dominant display in the highly anticipated battle of Bellevue hill. Hugh W set the tone early with an incredible 25 of just 12 balls to put Cranbrook on the front foot from the get-go. Brilliant fielding from Oscar L and tight bowling from Xavier M made the hill too steep to climb for a strong Scots outfit. The weekend was the perfect example of a team performance as this juggernaut of the cricket program continues to exceed all expectations. Onto the next. 

Year 5B Cricket – Cranbrook 10 defeated by Scots 95

A tough match for the Cranbrook boys, with the Scots side coming out strong and putting a great innings together. Charlie H and Henry led the attack, and George Y also contributed well with some great leg spin bowling. Unfortunately, we lost too many wickets, and we were unable to chase down the large total posted by our Scots counterparts. Focus point for next week will be capitalising on the bad balls.

Year 4A Cricket – Cranbrook 107 defeated Scots 88

The mighty 4As continue their undefeated run with a close victory over rivals Scots. Both teams were evenly matched as we bowled first on a wet morning. Scots scored 88 with special mentions to Joseph R bowling the house down and being on a hat-trick. In reply, the boys batted well scoring 107 as Will W blasted 26* off 12 balls with some huge sixers to get the boys over the line. Well done legends!

Year 4Red Cricket –Cranbrook defeated by Grammar S I

On a rainy Saturday morning, the boys had ventured out to St Ives for an early start. The boys slowly started to appear at the field. First Freddie H, then Jonathan K, Lucas S, Hugo C and Xander R. As time went on, we still only had 5. Thinking to myself maybe the Saturday traffic had got them trapped but unfortunately to illness, the other boys were unavailable and were sorely missed. Anyways, onto the game. As the other Year 4 Cranbrook team had 4, both teams had to work collaboratively as playing 2 games simultaneously. It was an extremely tough task in the humid heat but the boys were not phased and were ready to push on. Initially we batted first. Sadly, the boys couldn’t cheer on their teammates to glory, instead, fielding for the other 4’s team. Lucas S and Jonathan K opened the batting. Sydney grammar were a tough outfit with their quick bowling from the get-go. However, these 2 boys showed tremendous courage by not backing away and taking these opening bowlers on with Jonathan K and Lucas’ chemistry on display with their amazing shots, calling and running between the wickets. Well done boys in setting the standard and tone. Next in were Freddie H and Xander R. Already fatigued from the field, the boys were under immediate pressure. But once again, now becoming a common occurrence amongst this team, they were unbelievable with their attitude towards the game and were more than eager to face their opponents. Freddie and Xander were playing some classy shots, some may say like Steve Smith. Last pair was Lucas S again and Hugo C. Hugo C had now spent an extended period bowling, fielding and now to complete the trifecta, batting. Hugo C and Lucas S were both just great, not really many other words to say. With the boys in the heat and still batting it was a testament to their character and showing such maturity at a young age. Special mention to Lucas S with scoring 28 runs without a wicket gone. Onto the bowling. Xander R opened the bowling due to batting within the middle order, Xander R had a great warm up and was bowling extremely well. This was reflected within his bowling spell taking a wicket, well done mate. Next in was Jerry W who was filling in From the other year 4 team, he bowled extremely well, with only 3 going from his over. Hugo C was having a day out as when all hope was lost with grammar charging towards a win. With Hugo close to the batsman in the field, initially thinking it would be an easy run, one handed and falling to the ground, Hugo C lets go of the ball, and in what felt like slow motion, crashed into the stumps, leaving the batsman out of his crease, with what ensued was a well-deserved celebration. Hadley S also bowled on target and was energetic in the field supporting his teammates which is the best type of teammate you can have. Special mentions go to Lucas S for his bowling spell and all-round effort today, Freddie H Bowled extremely well. Jonathan K was great in his spell and deserved a wicket or two. Oli D had a great start and was tasked with the tough batsman from Sydney grammar. Well done boys, although we lost you can keep your heads held high with the challenge you faced and the resilience that was displayed. Well done boys and onto next week. 

Year 4Blue Cricket – Cranbrook 56 defeated Grammar S I 29

Year 3A Master Blasters

INTERNAL

Year 3B Master Blasters – Cranbrook 60 defeated Kings 53

The mighty 3Bs made their way out to The Kings School on Saturday and eventually found our oval through the maze that is the King’s school campus. Captain Samuel Y decided to bat first, as we posted a steady 55 runs only losing two wickets with the highlights being our fast running between the wickets and boundary hitting from William S. Our bowling was then brilliant all innings, and our work throughout the week on bowling accuracy paid off as our most expensive over only went for six runs. Overall, it was a very solid team performance in all areas of the game reflected by the scoreline of a seven-run win to Cranbrook.

Year 3C Master Blasters – Cranbrook defeated by Grammar S I

The Boys were keen and eager, early on a Saturday morning. We won the toss and as a team, decided to bat. Henry S and Harry M opened the batting and were on the task of facing the Sydney Grammar bowlers. Their fierce defence and patient attack led them to a flurry of runs. Well done boys. Next in were Angus A and Beckett C, both keen from the get-go to score some runs and have some fun. They did great consider the early morning and the wet pitch, with the ball skidding on quite quickly. Great Job Boys Next were Otto H and Imanol P and they had a great start who didn’t lose a wicket which was very well done. Last in was Evan H who batted at a high quality, prepared for everything coming to him and batted at a high quality. Onto the bowling. The boys did extremely well in the field and were at a high quality throughout Special mentions to Angus A and Otto H for taking wickets during their individual bowling spells. Unlucky on the loss boys and onto next week.

Multi-Sports

An extremely wonderful session on Saturday morning. Alexander F and Benjamin J showed excellent basketball dribbling skills. James B and Yanni A are to be commended on their shooting. This squad continues to go from strength to strength! A remarkable group to coach! Well done lads!!

Tennis

Tennis As

After some court towel drying to a wet Kent Oval tennis courts the boys got under way in a great tennis fixture. Both doubles and singles games were so tight, and deuce seemed to be the most common call of the morning. The boys played hard / fair and with great enthusiasm to seek out a 39-31 victory, which they should be very pleased with. Small attention required to positional play and serves will see the team move to the next level.

Very well done to all the young athletes and a special thank you to Hugo C B for his amazing efforts to ensure the game went ahead.

Tennis Cs

 In a tough weekend of matches, Cranbrook Cs suffered a resounding defeat against Newington, with a final score of 14-54. Despite their best efforts, the Cranbrook team were unable to overcome their opponents, who put on a dominant display throughout the game.

Meanwhile, George Y had a closer match but still ended up losing by a narrow margin, with a final score of 2-3. George fought hard throughout the match but was unable to quite edge out his opponent and secure the win for his team.

In doubles action, Blake H and Henry R also suffered a tough loss, going down 3-4 in a closely contested match. Despite their best efforts, the pair were unable to secure the points needed to come out on top.

Water Polo

Cranbrook 13 defeated Scots 6

The Cranbrook water polo team faced Scots Tartan at home on Saturday 4th March. The team worked effectively together swimming into space and demonstrating a growing awareness of each other in the water. Cranbrook quickly created a lead which they continued to build on throughout the game. Multiple goal scorers helped provide depth, including five goals by Joseph L. Overall an impressive performance by all team members to achieve a solid win 13-6. Training this week will continue to focus on strengthen ball passing skills.