Although the team this year had a number of young, less experienced players, it became apparent that what was lacking in experience would be made up for tenfold in attitude and willingness to learn. The youngsters in the team proved to be resilient, reliable and fit, with enough mental strength to see the season through to the end.

Lydia, Hannah M & Shauna settled down quickly into the team as if they had always been there, and together with Hannah B showed they had the talent, determination and stamina not just to finish a game but to fight until the last game of the season with undiminished enthusiasm.

The team performed well in the North West Kent League and finished in top spot having only lost once, early on in the season. Big improvements were made throughout the year and, as some of the more experienced players were not always available, it was good to see the youngsters stepping up.

In the Premier League the team finished in a respectable 6th, although the performances lacked consistency from week to week. An unfortunate injury to Erika in November gave Hannah M the chance to make an impact with her versatile and intelligent play. Erika made it back in time to play a fantastic match against Hertford Hornets, which was a crucial win for the team. Chantal and Jenny’s competitiveness and high work rate paid dividends as, even when losing, the team managed to hang on to grab bonus points by staying within 5 goals of the winning score. Lydia, young brave and strong forged a great defensive partnership with Chantal and they, together with Shauna & Frankie at WD, had the second best defence record in the league - an achievement to be proud of. Shauna, who deservedly won the award for most improved player this season, showed off her power, speed and strength in every match. Hannah B played better and better as the season progressed, becoming so confident that mistakes were rare and her shooting was relaxed. Jayne, returning from having a baby, contributed greatly to the shooting circle, and Frankie, after a slow start to the season played better and better, and her big heart, never say die attitude and general support was also crucial to the team’s success.

The team topped off a great year by winning their first ever fastnet competition, the Karen Tappin Tournament.

The player of the year for the 1st team, was Rochelle Modeste who (whilst under enormous pressure all year as she switched from circle defence to GS/GA for the good of the team) brought her fitness, talent, personality and skills to every match.