Unfortunately for the development of this squad, shortly after the team of 8 was selected, it transpired that Mel and Lottie would be unavailable for the Kent County Senior League on Sunday’s due to their selection for the RDTP. And it wasn’t long before Megan and Olivia were also selected which ruled them out too.

In the NWKL, although it was a blow to lose Lottie through injury for the season, Becks & Megan soon formed a good partnership in the circle, with the quick feet and accurate shooting of Becks complementing the strength and power of Megan. In the centre court, Frankie brought her high energy levels and fabulous interception skills to give the team a good start before the 1st team snaffled her. Mel & Debbie took up the mantle in the centre court, and were joined by Karen on her return from injury. In defence, Leo and Charlotte were a formidable duo – Leo’s experience and never say die attitude really helped Charlotte to develop, as she got tougher and tougher as the season progressed, with great improvement on quick footwork and timing allowing her to make clean two handed interceptions over and over again. Olivia gained a well deserved promotion half way through the season and these 3 in defence were a force to be reckoned with. The season came down to a decider match against Telstars as to who would take the runner-up spot and gain promotion. It was a humdinger of a match with Club on the back foot throughout, but sheer guts and determination together with calm play from some of the more experienced heads meant that Club won by one goal and will compete with the 1st team in Division 1 next year.

In the County Senior League, some of the third team players had to step up to the mark to fill the gaps, and although it was tough, everyone who played up really brought their “A game”. Lucy played every game and with her energy and fearlessness was always an asset to the team. Alannah, always a versatile player performed well in the shooting circle and in centre court. Dot slotted in well in the shooting circle, building a good relationship with Becks, and with her and Debbie having played many seasons together previously, the old combination was soon working well. Brogan, Ruth and Liz stood in and put up a solid defence, and Beth C came on at a crucial time in the Telstars match to help snatch a last minute draw. In the end the team finished 3rd, just missing out on a Regional play-off spot, but still with a lot of excellent performances to be proud of.

The player of the year for the 2nd team was Debbie Greenslade, for her reliable on court play, support of the less experienced players around her, determination and the fact that she is always on the end of every loose ball.