Enjoyed by 30, 000 schoolgirls and played by 222 University teams up and down the country, this fast-paced game only seems to be growing in popularity. And what better way to celebrate this totally unique sport than with a competitive, four-day tournament?

For many, the National Schools Lacrosse Championships is one of the most highly-anticipated sporting events of the year. Dating back to before the Second World War, this prestigious event is well-renowned for producing some of the most outstanding displays of lacrosse. This year's tournament, which kicked off on Saturday 2nd March, was no exception.

The U19 1st and 2nd teams were the first to arrive at Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre, in surprisingly good spirits despite the early hour. The event, which had previously been held at Surrey Sports Park, had seen a change of location this year but the new venue did more than enough to accommodate the mass of gazebos that suddenly appeared on the grass.

The teams then took to the pitches, pumped full of adrenaline and rearing to go. There was fierce competition between the teams with each and every one fighting to secure themselves a place in the Divisional Championships, set to take place the following day. Impressive performances were given by all and girls were left with constricting lungs and aching muscles and the sense that they had given their all.

Sunday morning brought with it grey skies and blustery winds but, after an evening of recuperation, the girls returned to the field with renewed enthusiasm. More driven and motivated than ever, the teams pushed on through the pouring rain and continued to play some extremely high-level lacrosse. 

The LEH 2nd team fought admirably and managed to secure wins against both Putney High School and St. Pauls Girls School, before narrowly losing to Berkhamsted School. They made it through to the knock-out rounds where, after a tense game against Downe House, their hopes of being declared champions were dashed. Despite this, they had placed within the top 16 which was certainly an achievement to be proud of. Their 1st team, too, did extremely well, managing to reach the semi-finals! However, in the 2nd team division, St. Catherine's School, Bramley were eventually crowned champions, a title which they sorely deserved.