After a long hiatus imposed by COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, BSB Sanlitun Bulldogs finally got an opportunity to test their sporting skills against students from international schools across Beijing: handball tournaments for Year 5 and 6 students held at our sister school The British School of Beijing, Shunyi.
Following trials that tested their speed, agility, passing skills, defensive and shooting techniques, players who showed superior skills, teamwork and tactical awareness were selected to have the honour of wearing our student-designed Bulldogs shirt in competition for the very first time. Up against our students were teams from Dulwich College Beijing, Yew Chung International School and BSB Shunyi. The Year 5 competition took place on Tuesday, with the Year 6 competition the following day.
Both Year 5 boys’ and girls’ team showcased slick passing moves, gritty defence, fine goalkeeping and plenty of accurate shooting. I was impressed with the communication between players and the way each team cheered the other one on – each goal was a cue for wild celebrations from the bench! I also liked how both teams regrouped after a loss and kept the mood positive in the group.
Both teams had a shot at a third-place trophy in the final championship matches of the day. With the girls’ team, our tactic was to have a fast-attacking start, score as many goals as possible and then bring on our best defensive players to close out the game. The girls followed the plan to the letter, with a comprehensive victory over BSB Shunyi.
The boys’ game, also against Shunyi, was a much closer affair with fantastic goals and brave goalkeeping from both teams. Dogged defence from the Bulldogs in the final minutes of game allowed them to hold on to a one-goal lead and secure the third-place trophy.
The following day, Mr Han coached the Year 6 teams in their competition. Both teams put into practice the skills they’ve learned in PE lessons with plenty of effective marking and pressing, fluid passing and powerful, precise shooting. The competition from the other schools was fierce: end to end games with plenty of counter attacking was the order of the day.
Just like their Year 5 counterparts, both Year 6 teams made it to the third-place playoff. The boys went first against a strong team from YCIS. Despite their best efforts and showing plenty of heart, the boys suffered a narrow loss in this game. The girls took to the court next and played superb handball against an impressive Shunyi team. They were able to hold on for victory and brought home the third-place trophy for the Bulldogs.
Thanks to all our brilliant Bulldogs who represented the school with great competitive spirit; to Mr Han, Miss Alisha, Miss Mary, Miss Alice and Miss Tiffany who accompanied our teams; thanks to all the teams and schools that took part and a special thanks to the PE department at BSB Shunyi for organising two fantastic tournaments.
We look forward to more inter-school events later this year!
By Thomas Wood
Head of PE
