CSSC London Beamers Netball Club

Welcome to the website of the London Beamers Netball Club

Members

Feedback from old and new squad members

I have been with the London Beamers since about 2005. We began life as a mixed team, playing through the wet and cold in Blackfriars. Initially we were playing for enjoyment and physical exercise however towards the beginning of 2006 through the hard work of Marcia we acquired some new members including our fabulous coaches Raslin and Roxy. At this point the training became more structured and regular. Soon we were able to form a ladies team which had the beginnings of a very competent and competitive netball unit. In our first season we found our feet and played against other London based Civil Service teams for example the Home Office, and leading up to the second season we increased our numbers so much so that we were able to enter two teams (A & B) into the newly formed London Civil Service League. In this second season the A team won the Civil Service League. It was a wonderful feeling.

 

I am so proud to have been part of this team as we play attractive, stylish and spirited netball.  Through my injuries (as numerous as they were) the ladies were very supportive (checking in with me on a weekly basis to see how I was) and always keeping my place in the team open. All I can say is that I love the Beamers and every individual. There is real camaraderie and a dependable atmosphere. I am very sorry to leave the London Beamers as I don’t think I will ever find such a great group of netball players and friends. I want to say a personal thank you to Marcia for keeping us going through the hard times and also Roxy and Raslin for giving up so much of their time to teach us their craft. And Ladies (A&B team) I value all the hugs and smiles you gave me.

 

Tanith xx

I joined the Beamers squad in March 2007. After coming to training on Monday nights for a few weeks I quickly slotted in to the team for the start of the new season.

“I wasn’t too sure what to expect but everyone is really friendly and welcoming which has made it a lot of fun. The training on Monday nights is great way to get to know people across all the teams while getting helpful tips on skills and game play in an encouraging environment. Of course it’s even better when you can turn them into results in the league matches! There is a strong team spirit in the squad and everyone makes an effort to help each other progress as well as to have fun – both on and off the court. If you’re thinking about getting involved then just come along and give it a try, you will definitely have a great evening and, you never know, you may quickly find yourself working up a sweat with us on a Thursday night too!”

When I am not on the netball court, I like biking round London, playing football, lazy Saturday brunches, and drinking on the pub-boats (preferably in the sunshine). I dislike bendy buses, olives, and when my Ipod battery runs out.

Well the time has come for me to write my report on Beamer’s. I have put this off as it means that it is my time to say goodbye (all together now ahhhhhhhhh!!). Possibly it is quite fitting that while writing this I have a lovely black eye from playing my last friendly game, see above picture as evidence!! No, the girls did not beat me up as I was leaving!! An unusual course of events caused with a clash of Kathy’s (Goal Shooter) head to my cheek bone. I do feel that it was an injustice that I got called for contact tho….

 

Well I have been with Beamer’s since last April and would recommend netball to anyone!! I have had the best time and made some great friends. I could go on about particular games but do not think that is what my team mates want to read and anyone visiting this web site can work out the logistics of the club and when we play. I have learnt some great skills and have been bitten by the netball bug. I have loved playing in the league, the training, the competitions and tournaments. My special moment will always be winning the Best Defence shield….

 

Beamer’s is a great club to play for and although in its early days I am sure it will go from strength to strength. I await a possible world tour to New Zealand.   

 

I leave with a sad (bruised) face but a happy heart and the words ‘turn’, ‘forty five’, ‘on your toes’, ‘dodge’ and last but not very least ‘JUMP’. Will ring in my ears (Ras) every time I go to netball. I have managed most of my instructions except jump (according to Ras) which I am still trying to master!!! I intend to keep up my netball in NZ and hope they will have me, but I will never forget Beamer’s and will be logging onto the website weekly. So all of you that Marcia tells to write your match report, make sure you do as I will want to hear the news.

 

I can not close without a special thanks to Roxy and Ras for your time, training, coaching and friendship.

Dee Hanlon

Zoe Bond

I joined Beamers in September 2006 – I heard about the club from a friend at work and although I hadn’t played netball since my school days (~12 years ago!!) I had always enjoyed the game then and was looking for a fun way to keep in shape.

 

I went along to training and quickly got involved in playing games in the autumn league.  I have learnt a lot from Beamers – at school when I played netball it was all about the fastest person getting the ball, we weren’t aware of set plays and tactics didn’t exist!!  There are many experienced players in the team and it’s great to pick up tips from them and to watch them play.  The training sessions give you a chance to try out set plays with team mates, to practice drills (passing, dodging etc) and are also a good opportunity to build up fitness levels.

 

I had to stop playing and training around April time as I was 3 months pregnant – baby is due early October and I’m looking forward to getting back on the netball court with Beamers in the autumn/winter – I just hope I haven’t forgotten everything!

 

Zoë