20 November 2023
RUGBY
Wednesday 15 November 2023
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Kirkham Grammar School 1st XV v King's School Macclesfield
On Wednesday 15 November, Kirkham Grammar School 1st XV travelled to the King's School Macclesfield for their second round of the National Schools U18 Cup. In challenging weather conditions, KGS 1st XV showcased their determination and a positive attitude throughout the match. Despite the rain and slippery pitch, Davies' exceptional ball-handling skills stood out, contributing to crucial plays in not only his attack but his physicality in defence. A well-timed defensive effort lead to an intercept try for Davies to touch down over the white wash. Hulse's strategic and calm influence from the backfield kept Kirkham in the right areas and forced kings Macclesfield to make an error close to their line. A strong Kirkham scrum held it steady for Loggenberg to power over from close range. A special mention to Carter's solid defensive efforts along with Stacey in the centres. The second half proved to be tough going against the wind. Kirkham found themselves playing in their own half for the majority of the half. Colossal repeated defensive efforts from Kirkham meant the hosts only managed to cross the line once despite the wind advantage. Gilmore and Kelly lead the team from the front showing outstanding performance and executing precise tackles that played a pivotal role in securing the team's resilience. Together, the team demonstrated exceptional teamwork, overcoming adverse weather conditions to secure a hard-fought victory. Kirkham Grammar School now proceed to the quarter-finals of the cup and look forward to another challenging game. Final score 38-10 to Kirkham Grammar School.
Saturday 18 November 2023
Kirkham Grammar School U12s v Trafford Schools and Caldy Grange Grammar School
Kirkham Grammar School U12A team were involved in a triangular fixture against Trafford Schools and Caldy Grange Grammar School this weekend. The first match against Trafford Schools proved to be a tightly contested affair, ending in a 5-5 draw. The deadlock was broken by a stellar try from Dunn, demonstrating individual skill and determination. The team showcased great defence, holding their ground against a good opponent. The draw reflected the evenly matched nature of the encounter. In the second match against Caldy Grange Grammar School, Kirkham Grammar School secured a hard-fought victory with a final score of 10-5. Tries from Cox and Winstanley highlighted the team's collective effort and effective execution of structured plays. The team's improved cohesion and strategic play were evident, showcasing a positive step forward in their rugby development. Well done to all involved and thank you to all those who supported.
Kirkham Grammar School U13A v Trafford Schools
Kirkham Grammar School U13A team hosted Trafford Schools at Preston Grasshoppers RUFC on a surface that encouraged running rugby and it certainly didn't disappoint. Kirkham Grammar School utilised quick possession on many occasions in the first half which allowed the wingers plenty of ball. However, Trafford defended very well to thwart the Kirkham attacks with the game remaining 0-0 until five minutes before half time when Lawson scored, a second try followed quickly from Medhurst to give Kirkham a cushion. The second half saw Trafford hit back with two tries of their own to level affairs but this did not stop Kirkham's positive approach as they continued to attack going ahead through an Elleray try. Back came Trafford but the Kirkham defence held firm and another try from Milligan took them further ahead to lead 20-10. With little time remaining Kirkham scored again through .jpg)
J Smith to make the game safe but Trafford had the last word with the final try of the match to leave the score in Kirkham's favour. Final score 25-20 to Kirkham Grammar School.
Kirkham Grammar School U16s v Caldy Grange Grammar School (pictured left)
Kirkham Grammar School U16s travelled to Caldy Grange Grammar School looking to continue their excellent run of form. From the outset the game was played at a high pace with some huge defensive pressure from Kirkham, as Caldy dominated possession early. Caldy scored two early tries as Kirkham struggled to clear their lines. The lads kept steady heads and began to play with some more freedom. Brilliant tries from Cieran and Max gave Kirkham the lead. From then on they looked very settled and began to take the game away from the home side. Final score 10-32 to Kirkham Grammar School.
HOCKEY
Kirkham Grammar School U13 Hockey v The King's School, Worcester (pictured top of the page)
Kirkham Grammar School U13 hockey squad travelled down to Worcester to compete in the last 16 of the National Independent Schools' Cup. The squad played hard from the start whistle and pressed the Worcester defence creating chances in front of goal. Great distribution from Osborne in midfield set Maclean-Bristol free down the right to open space for Guthrie to slot the first goal away. The girls absorbed some pressure within the first half with So and Musson working hard to keep the forwards out. More pressure from the talented KGS side resulted in a penalty corner. A great strike from Osborne was followed up and converted by Guthrie to take the score to 2-0 as they approached half time. In the second half, Godbold and Townsend linked up well together down the right to force mistakes in the Worcester half. Another goal came early on to take the score to 3-0. Worcester hit back hard and applied much pressure at the back. At the final whistle the score was 3-3 taking to game to penalties. Osborne and Guthrie converted their penalties with Musson making two excellent saves in goal to take the victory. This takes the squad to the last eight in the country as they wait to hear if they will take on Queen Margaret's School for Girls or Royal Grammar School Newcastle in the quarter-final.
Kirkham Grammar School U15 Hockey v Cheadle Hulme School
In an exciting Saturday morning clash, Kirkham Grammar School U15s faced Cheadle Hulme away. The game showcased excellent teamwork, particularly between Lewis and Gut on the right, complemented by Bunday and Greenwood in the middle. The first half displayed persistent attacking efforts, resulting in a deflected goal by Bunday from Smith's initial strike. Defenders, So and Grice, alongside runs from Tomlinson and Lewis, ensured a halftime score of 1-1. Despite fatigue in the second half, the team demonstrated effective ball movement and communication. However, Cheadle Hulme got the better of KGS with the final score 3-1. A commendable effort by KGS U15s - the score didn't reflect how the girls played, with notable performances from various players throughout the match. Final score 3-1 to Cheadle Hulme School.
Kirkham Grammar School U13A v Cheadle Hulme School
Kirkham Grammar School U13A team came from behind to draw with Cheadle Hulme School. After a slow first half, KGS found themselves 2-0 down following some slack defending which allowed Cheadle free shots in the D. Musson made a series of good saves to keep KGS in the game. In the second half, KGS moved the ball into wide areas quickly with McGarry and Maclean-Bristol linking up well. Guthrie and So worked hard in midfield whilst Dunne and Townsend helped repel Cheadle attacks. McGarry finished well after good persistent work from Guthrie gave her time and space to shoot. Guthrie then turned scorer to bring KGS level. Despite continuing to push hard, the girls couldn't find a winning goal. Final score 2-2.
Kirkham Grammar School U13B v Cheadle Hulme School
Last week, Kirkham Grammar School U13B hockey squad worked particularly well in training and this hard work certainly paid off! The squad played Cheadle Hulme School U13B team and some beautiful play through defence, midfield and attack was witnessed. Jennings scored a cracking goal from a short corner and Mackenzie with a great amount of composure and skill out manoeuvred the goal keeper for KGS' second goal. Player of the match was the up and coming Cubbins, KGS' U12 goalkeeper. A well-deserved result. Final score 2-1 to Kirkham Grammar School.
Kirkham Grammar School U12A v Cheadle Hulme School
In a great performance against Cheadle Hulme, Kirkham Grammar School U12 A team showcased exceptional teamwork and communication from the start. Using simple yet effective hockey strategies, the team moved the ball up the pitch well. The Butler-Reid twins demonstrated solid defensive skills, delivering impressive balls to Hargreaves and Townley in the middle, creating numerous scoring opportunities. The first half concluded with a commanding 3-0 lead for Kirkham Grammar School, with Hargreaves scoring twice and Townley also adding one. The second half witnessed continued resilience from KGS, with outstanding defence and midfield play maintaining control of the ball. Their dominance in the attacking half led to two more goals, courtesy of Townley and Godbold. The U12A team secured a convincing 5-0 victory, showcasing both defensive prowess and attacking flair. A commendable effort by the entire team in securing this well-deserved win. Player of the Match: A Godbold
Kirkham Grammar School U12B v Cheadle Hulme School
Kirkham Grammar School U12s squad demonstrated real attacking skill against a strong Cheadle Hulme side. Mutton ruled the midfield linking up well with Airton and Branthwaite to set Grice through on goal. Great build up play from Walls and Whittle at the back created great opportunities up front allowing Murro to slot the first goal home. Cheadle attacked well creating chances at penalty corners and equalising from a well worked set piece. Murro got back with a second to take KGS into the lead. In the second half it was all to play for. Kerr made some great runs from the midfield whilst Butcher and Walls put some excellent balls through utilising the sidelines. Kerr converted the third. A great game from an amazing team. Final score 3-3.
Netball
Tuesday 14 November 2023
Sisters in Sport National Cup
Kirkham Grammar School U14s v South Hunsley
First quarter: Balanced start with missed opportunities
The opening quarter of the match between Kirkham Grammar School and South Hunsley unfolded as a tightly contested battle, resulting in a 7-7 tie. Both teams demonstrated proficiency in shooting, yet numerous opportunities were left untaken. The scoreboard reflected a shared determination from both sides to establish an early lead.
Second quarter: Defensive brilliance from Kirkham Grammar School
In the second quarter, Kirkham Grammar School showcased a robust defensive unit comprising Whittle, Mitchell, and Selby. Their collaborative efforts were evident in the heightened turnover rate, disrupting South Hunsley's attacking plays. The defensive strength of Kirkham Grammar School laid the groundwork for a more favourable position on the scoreboard, as their strategic movements and interceptions contributed to a higher number of scoring opportunities.
Third quarter: Speed injection and attacking flair
The third quarter witnessed Kirkham Grammar School introducing an injection of speed into their attacking plays. Players such as Houlihan, Munro, Murro, and Ely displayed remarkable movement down the court, creating dynamic opportunities for scoring. However, occasional turnovers occurred due to rushed plays. Despite these lapses, KGS maintained a solid offensive presence, contributing to the overall momentum resulting in 34-18.
Fourth quarter: Tactical switch and defensive mastery
Entering the final quarter, Kirkham Grammar School implemented a strategic switch, emphasizing a defensive setup. The transition from the backline to the attacking third proved to be effective and successful. The altered defensive strategy, combined with cohesive movement, resulted in a dominant performance. Kirkham Grammar School effectively converted defensive opportunities into decisive offensive plays.
Conclusion: KGS emerges victorious
In conclusion, the netball match between Kirkham Grammar School and South Hunsley was characterized by a balanced start, defensive brilliance in the second quarter, an injection of speed in the third, and a strategic defensive switch in the final quarter. Kirkham Grammar School showcased adaptability and effective teamwork, ultimately securing a 44-25 victory. The match served as a testament to Kirkham Grammar School's commitment and skill on the court, providing valuable insights for further refinement as the team progresses in the competition.
Final score 44-25 to Kirkham Grammar School.
Lilly Miles (pictured right)
Kirkham Grammar School Third Year pupil, Lilly Miles, has ended the 2023 Karate competition year on a high gaining a gold and silver medal at last week's WUKF European Karate Championships in Antibes. This is the end of a great year for Lilly becoming British Champion, European Champion and World Champion. Congratulations, Lilly!
Kirkham Grammar Junior and Infant School Sport
Fylde Schools Football Competition
On Monday 6 November, Kirkham Grammar School U11 Boys' A team took part in the Fylde Schools football competition. The competition started in a group stage tournament with four groups. Within the group stages, Kirkham Grammar School performed well, demonstrating some excellent football showcasing skills, teamwork and determination. The team won two, drew one and lost one to finish third in their group. The team progressed into the League Cup playing in a round-robin format and competing in another two games scoring plenty of goals to achieve an overall position of sixth out of 20 schools. Well done, boys!
Wyre & Fylde School Sports Partnership Dance Festival 2023
Last Monday, Kirkham Grammar School Infant and Junior pupils (pictured below) performed a mesmerising piece of dance at the sell-out annual Wyre & Fylde School 
Sports Partnership Dance Festival 2023 at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. We were in awe of the superbly choreographed, polished, and engaging dance piece that the pupils so aptly pulled off. The enthusiasm and delight that they emanated as they performed was palpable. A brilliant example of how determination, effort and commitment, working with a range of people can have such a magical outcome.
The event beautifully showcased an array of wonderfully talented, creative and energetic young people across 25 primary schools and six senior schools. It was a pleasure to watch the performances of all the schools within the wider community, and to see how each school interpreted the theme of ‘Heroes & Heroines’.
Well done to St Joseph's, Wesham for the commendation they received from the founder of this event, Louise Brunskill, for their community-inspired dance entitled ‘Every Day Heroes’.
We are so proud of each and every one of our wonderful pupils at Kirkham Grammar School.
A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all!