On the final Tuesday of the 2025–26 academic year, Miss Green and Coach Joe took a mixed group of Year 3 and Year 4 pupils to the annual rounders tournament at Peppard Common. Having proudly retained the trophy for the previous two years, the children were determined to defend their title once again.

The squad was divided into two mixed teams, with each team playing three matches across the morning. Games consisted of a nine-minute batting innings, providing plenty of opportunities for everyone to make an impact. As this was the first time many of the children had played together in these particular teams, both sides took a little time to settle into the competition. However, any early nerves quickly disappeared as the children began to showcase their skills, teamwork and determination.

Players: Jesse, Sophie, Mhairi, Evie C, Sam W, Miles R, Max C, Rory, Brody and Joseph

Team B got off to an excellent start with a convincing victory over Peppard, winning 9–4.5. Jesse led from the front with a strong fielding performance, while Max delighted spectators with two impressive catches in quick succession. Excellent teamwork between Brody and Sam resulted in five consecutive players being stumped out at second base. With the bat, Miles and Rory both scored superb rounders, while the whole team showed great determination by continuing to run hard and avoid being caught out.

Their second match against Kidmore End proved to be a much closer contest. The team struggled to find the rhythm they had established in their opening game, but captain Sam kept spirits high and ensured everyone remained focused. Sophie and Evie demonstrated great resilience, staying in for extended periods and helping build the team’s score. Despite the slower start, Team B held their nerve to secure a narrow but exciting 9–8 victory.

Players: Joey, Tegan, Flo, Alexis, William V, Ocean, Olivia, Billy, Tristan and Jasper

While Team B were competing, Coach Joe guided Team A through their matches. Their opening game against Kidmore End was a challenging one, but the team showed exemplary sportsmanship throughout, helping the opposition understand the rules and play fairly. Their second game against Peppard was a well fought battle where the team bonded well and showed our school values superbly.

Several players delivered standout performances, helping the team compete to the best of their ability. Joey, Ocean, Tristan and Jasper each scored excellent rounders and made valuable contributions both with the bat and in the field. Most importantly, the team demonstrated fantastic resilience, teamwork and encouragement for one another throughout the game.

The final fixture of the tournament saw our two Sonning Common teams face each other in a friendly but competitive match. It was a wonderful display of sportsmanship, with both teams supporting one another while still giving their best.

There were several memorable moments. Mhairi stayed in longer than she had in any previous game, making an important contribution to her team’s score. Joseph produced an outstanding catch behind fourth base, while Tristan’s skilful curve-ball bowling made scoring difficult for the opposition. Tegan’s quick thinking and leadership helped guide her team to victory in a closely contested match.

The tournament was a fantastic way to end the academic year. All of the children represented Sonning Common Primary School brilliantly, demonstrating teamwork, perseverance, respect and excellent sportsmanship throughout the morning. We are incredibly proud of every player and the way they supported one another both on and off the pitch. It was a wonderful day of rounders and a fitting end to another successful sporting year.