The squad have been in great for this year progressing well in the district competitions and developing greatly through a number of friendly matches and tournaments. Up against the favourites from Madrid was always going to be a challenge but a last second ‘buzzer beater’ from Diego Rejman Rodriguez finishing of an expertly drawn up play from coach Tomek secured a victory that sent expectations and confidence through the roof.
Backing up a great start with comfortable wins against Bratislava and Champittet meant the first day saw TBS in a strong position heading into the final day of competition. After a long wait at the beginning of the day and carrying a few niggles from the fierce competition, Budapest were the opponents. Despite their physical presence, the TBS showed good composure and focus to see off their challenge and claim a 4th win from 4 matches.
This was by far one of the highest standard tournaments I’ve visited as a coach or teacher and going into the final game, any one of 3 teams could have claimed the overall 1st place trophy dependent on the outcome. A game of tension, nerve and end to end chances against Prague was impossible to draw your eyes away from. The lead changed hands frequently as the game progressed leaving TBS 1 point down with 12 seconds to play. The baseline pass found TBS hands and the play unfolded as planned. With 1 second to play, the shot was released and arched towards the basket only to fall agonizingly short. The End outcome was a tournament victory for Madrid and a well deserved 2nd place for TBS. The most pleasing aspect of the whole weekend was the character of the students.
Their conduct throughout was exemplary with teachers and principles from other schools noting their polite, sportsmanlike qualities. True gentlemen athletes! Congratulations to the whole squad and thanks to Coach Tomek.
Louis Fearn
Director of Sport