On Friday 26th April, Warminster School’s annual Sports Awards and Dinner was held in the Southwell Hall, 
transformed with an array of colourful balloons, sports-inspired table decorations and confetti for this prestigious event.
Tables were appropriately named after famous sporting grounds such as Twickenham, Wembley and Riverbank. As usual the Warminster School Catering Department treated guests to a sumptuous dinner.
Guests were entertained by a slide show during the dinner which showed pupils’ progression through the School from when they first joined in Year 7 to present day fixtures.
Many of those featured will shortly be leaving school having finished their A levels or IB examinations.
After dinner it was time for the traditional speeches. First up was Natasha Eeles, Captain of the 1st XI Girls’ Hockey, who took to the lectern and gave a truly heart-warming speech.
She poked friendly fun at her team mates, and some of the sports coaches, but made a point of individually thanking each of her team mates, together with all the teaching staff who have helped them along the way this season.
Next it was Murray Tabeart’s turn. Murray has been a consistent member of the School’s 1st XV Rugby team and the 2nd XI Football squad.
He gave a hilarious speech which left the evening’s guests roaring with laughter on several occasions, but still expressed grateful thanks to his peers and the PE Department staff for their help and guidance.
Director of Sport, Mr Knight, then gave a speech in which he acknowledged the dedication and determination of both pupils and staff throughout the academic year.
He looked forward to continuing his work with the young talented individuals at Warminster School. Our special guest for the evening, Mat Gilbert – professional rugby player for Bath – was then invited to address the guests and present the annual awards.
Mr Gilbert spoke to the pupils about his own experiences of boarding school life, tales which many of our pupils could relate with.
He told the pupils to enjoy every moment, and then to take the time to look back and cherish the memories you make whilst at School.
He also spoke about troubles which have hindered his career along the way including financial problems and contract issues; instead of letting these setbacks beat him, he remained determined to make his big break.
He left his audience with some inspirational advice, ‘Never give up on chasing your dream, but be prepared to make sacrifices; you will reap the benefits in the long run.’
With eager anticipation buzzing around the room, Mr Knight once again took to the lectern to announce the Sports Award winners.
Natasha Eeles and Jonas Obstmayer received awards for their individual ‘Service to Sport’. In Jonas case, this was in recognition of his all-round attitude and commitment to the PE Department throughout his schooling career.
Both winners have made an outstanding contribution to more than one sport, with Natasha captaining the 1st XI Girls’ Hockey team and playing in the First Netball.
Finally the much coveted ‘Team of the Year’ award went to the Rugby 1st XV, for their show-stopping season. The team, under Mr Swinburne’s guidance, secured an impressive match ration, winning nine out of their twelve matches.