Robert Gordon’s College celebrated a truly special day on Friday 27 March as the 1st VII Netball team competed in the Scottish Schools Open Cup Final against Anderson High from Shetland at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow. For the girls, stepping onto the same court as the Scottish Thistles was the ultimate dream and an experience they will never forget.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric from the start to the final whistle, which confirmed the full-time result of RGC 43 to Anderson High 49. Over 150 RGC pupils, parents, staff and families, along with our netball sponsor Inspire Catering, travelled to Glasgow to cheer on the team, filling the stands with banners, school colours and non-stop support. The RGC Mini Pipe Band were also there, bringing a wonderful sense of traditional musical spirit courtside. The energy from the crowd gave the girls an extra boost and made the occasion even more memorable.

Miss Duddy, 1st VII Coach, said: “Stepping onto that court with this group of players was an honour - it was an amazing experience for the girls, and the atmosphere was absolutely electric. The girls have had a phenomenal season and they absolutely earned their place in this year's Open Cup Final. The game had everything you would wish a final to have: speed, skill, flair and intensity, with constant shifts in momentum and the lead changing hands throughout. 

"The girls gave it their absolute all, playing with heart, commitment and a fierce desire to be the best version of themselves, from start to finish. Unfortunately, we couldn’t quite get over the line this time, but they should be immensely proud of what they put out on court. They were absolutely relentless in their efforts, celebrated the small wins, and continued to fight until the final whistle.

"To compete in a final on the same court as the Scottish Thistles is something they will remember for life, and I am immensely proud of the performance they delivered, as well as the consistency they have shown all season. Without a doubt, this group has inspired the next generation of RGC netballers and shown themselves to be amazing role models for our younger players. The girls loved playing in front of such a fantastic crowd, and seeing the RGC community out in force was truly incredible.”

Emma Love, Class of 17, commented: “It’s been so special to play a small part in the girls’ build-up to the Scottish Schools Final. When I spoke to them on Thursday, you could really sense the excitement in the group ahead of such a big occasion. It was fantastic to see so many family members, teachers and pupils travel down from Aberdeen to watch the game - it really shows how much netball has grown at RGC.

“It was such an exciting final, and the girls showed such resilience and composure in what was a high-pressure game, giving everything right to the final whistle. They should be incredibly proud of themselves.”

Miss MacIver, Head of Netball, added: “A difficult outcome in today’s final, but one to be immensely proud of. From start to finish, the game was intensely contested, with both teams playing goal to goal the entire time. Unfortunately, it was not our day in the end, but the girls should be extremely proud of the netball they showcased on court today. Also, a big thanks to all our supporters who came down to watch the team - the atmosphere of the crowd was unmatched, and their enthusiasm and energy kept the girls going the whole game.”

Preparation for the final began on Thursday with a training session at the Emirates Arena, followed by an inspiring presentation from former pupil Emma Love, Scottish international netball player for the Scottish Thistles and Strathclyde Sirens, who shared her experience in a Scottish Cup Final. Messages of encouragement from current Scotland players, former school players and RGC coaches added further motivation, helping the team step onto the court with focus and belief.

The Netball team would like to thank all parents, pupils, former pupils, sponsors and supporters for their incredible encouragement throughout the season and at the Scottish Schools Open Cup Final. The day at the Emirates Arena was one of those moments dreams are made of, and the journey leading to this has been a celebration of talent, teamwork and the joy of netball at Robert Gordon’s College.

Images: @craigwatsonpix