G&W Girls’ Diddy League Report featured in Swimming Times – Take a bow Hannah Brown and Niamh Swailes

Canterhall squad members Niamh Swailes and Hannah Brown became Swimming Times reporters – for one day only!

The girls produced an article providing a “competitors-eye” view of the National “Diddy League” Final. The piece featured prominently as part of the magazine’s coverage of the event.

Their excellent work is reproduced below (with permission).

Great work girls!

Featured in Swimming Times January 2016 edition.

The “Fantabulous” Junior Inter League National Final

A competitor’s-eye view by Niamh Swailes and Hannah Brown

“Fantabulous”, “awesome”, “mint”, “tiring”, “extravaganza”, and “unreal”. These were just some of the words our team used to describe the National Junior Inter League final.

The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement before the gala began. The teams paraded around the pool dancing and chanting. Some clubs even brought musical instruments to encourage their swimmers including drums and vuvuzelas, Gateshead and Whickham didn’t need any instruments because they had Niamh and Hannah! There was so much noise most people could’ve been slightly deaf by the end of the day, we definitely had a sore throat from shouting so much!

It was a great experience which brought to life our team spirit once again. Everyone was cheering for each other, wishing “good luck” and saying “well done” and getting everyone psyched up for their race by shouting for them at the blocks. The competition was very tough, but we didn’t let that get to us.

There was lots of talent in the pool, there were even some records broken! The relays were the highlight of the day, especially the Cannon. The tension was high and you felt the pressure when you stepped on the blocks. You feel so determined to do well and make your team mates proud.

But no one let their team down, with all the swimmers trying their best. You could tell the coaches and swimmers had put in a lot of effort and hard work in the lead up to the final. Everyone’s kicks were strong and powerful, and streamlines were on point. There were some brilliant takeovers and all the swimmers looked like they knew what they were doing… thanks to the coaches!

When the gala was over and we were waiting for the results, dance music boomed out of the speakers and the whole of pool side was filled with laughter and joy. Everyone danced to the music, including classics like the Macarena. Even parents and coaches joined in. One of Gateshead and Whickham’s coaches, Ross Bradley, danced so hard on the first song that he ended up lying on the ground!

After the crazy dancing was over it was time for the presentation. There were awards for: the best girl and boy in each age group and overall; the Cannon winners and first to eighth place. Guildford were the winners, with Stockport as runners up.

It was a great performance by all the clubs and everyone should be very proud. Well done to all the swimmers! We can’t wait for next year!