CHULMLEIGH Community College’s U14s boys’ badminton team achieved a fantastic sixth place, out of nine schools, in the National Schools Badminton finals at the National Badminton Centre in Milton Keynes on Sunday, April 29.

Competing against specialist sports schools, including The Coopers’ Company and Coburn School, "Top Sporting State School of 2016", who have reached the National finals in seven different sports, and players who already play Badminton for England, the boys performed incredibly well and all matches were closely fought.

Results were: The Coopers’ Company and Coburn School – lost 2-3 (87 points - 92 points)

Newbridge High School - won 3 -2 (93 points – 91 points)

V King Edward VI Camp Grammar School for Boys’ – lost 2-3 (84 points - 95 points)

Bolton Independent School - lost 2 – 3 (91 points – 91 points).

It is the highest level a sports team from Chulmleigh College has ever reached and the College is incredibly proud of the team members achievements.

The boys were asked for comments on their experience:

Rob Warren – “It’s easy to worry about things that go wrong in a match, but you need to forget your mistakes and focus on the present.”

Matthew Upright – “It’s not just about your skill in a sport, but also all about your mental strength – you have to keep calm under pressure.”

Ryan Dawson – “We had a brilliant time at the National Badminton Centre, it was fantastic to compete against players who already represent England and play at such a high level.”

Aaron Beel – “It was a fantastic experience, it’s the highest level we’ve ever played at, and will learn from our mistakes and come back stronger.”

Aaron and Ryan are now going on to represent Devon in the National Club Finals, in mixed doubles with partners from Queens Badminton Club in Crediton.

Chulmleigh Executive Headteacher Mike Johnson said: “I would like to say a huge thanks to the PE Department, Queens Badminton Club and the boys’ families for their support, and their wonderful demonstration of the power of teamwork. It was a privilege to travel to Milton Keynes to support them on the day.”