13th annual U-20 TISSL Netball Frenzy -- Teams clash in pursuit of glory
On February 6, the curtains lifted on the 13th Annual TISSL Inter-International Schools’ Under-20 Netball Tournament, which was graciously hosted by Ilma International Girls’ School at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. The event drew together 15 TISSL affiliated schools from across the nation, promising a day of thrilling competition and camaraderie.
The distinguished list of participating schools comprised of Asian International School, Colombo International School Colombo, Gateway College Colombo, Gateway College Kandy, Horizon College International, Ilma International Girls’ School, Lyceum International School Panadura, Lyceum International School Ratnapura, Lyceum International School Wattala, OKI International School, Royal Institute International School, Stafford International School, St. Nicholas’ College International School, The British School in Colombo and Wycherley International School Colombo. They brought their top-tier players who were all driven by a common goal to seize the championship.
As the matches unfolded with fervour and excitement, it all came down to four teams -Gateway College Kandy, The British School in Colombo, Ilma International Girls’ School, and Gateway College Colombo who secured their spots as semifinalists.
After the semi-finals, in an electrifying final showdown, Gateway Colombo and Gateway Kandy battled fiercely, with the team from Colombo emerging triumphant as champions of the 13th annual TISSL InterInternational Schools’ U-20 Netball Tournament.
The British School in Colombo and Ilma
International Girls’ School battled against each other for their position in the consolation match, aiming to secure the third position. With immense drive throughout the match, Ilma International Girls’ School claimed the second runners-up of the tournament.
Alongside the intense competition, the tournament also recognised individual excellence for their unparalleled prowess displayed on court, with several standout players earning coveted awards. Sakinah Anzary of Ilma International Girls’ School bagged the Best Centre Court Player award, while the British School in Colombo received the Spirit of the Game accolade. Mayumi Liyanage, from Gateway College Colombo, claimed the title of Best Shooter and Methuli Erahapola also from Gateway College Colombo was hailed Best Defender and crowned the esteemed title Netball Queen, culminating a day etched in the history of Ilma’s books.
The tournament not only showcased the immense talent and dedication of young athletes but also fostered a sense of unity and sportsmanship among participants in its closing hours. After the cheers subsided and the trophies were handed out, one thing remained clear in the world of netball, the true winners are those who wholeheartedly embrace the game with unwavering passion and unyielding determination.