Hailsham Primary Cluster Dodgeball Tournament

On Wednesday 29 April, pupils from schools across the Hailsham Primary Cluster came together to take part in the first ever dodgeball tournament hosted at Hailsham Academy Secondary Phase. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for children to take part in competitive sport and proudly represent their schools.

Match Report provided by Mr Delmon – Hailsham Primary Cluster Lead:

There was a brilliant atmosphere throughout the evening, with the sports hall balcony filled with supportive parents and carers. A real buzz of excitement and energy filled the venue as the games got underway, with cheers ringing out each time a player was taken out — whether through a powerful throw or a superlative catch. A special mention must go to the support shown by the Herstmonceux players for the rest of their teammates, who came along with a hand‑made sign, proudly encouraging and supporting their team throughout the tournament.

The primary pupils grew in confidence as the tournament progressed, becoming more familiar with the format and the tactics required to overcome their opposition. The two five‑minute halves worked particularly well, giving teams ample time to win multiple games while also providing an opportunity to regroup halfway through. This allowed teams to make tactical adjustments and gave teachers a chance to offer valuable individual and team feedback.

There were several standout individual performances across the tournament, one player from White House Academy demonstrated impressive consistency and accuracy with powerful throws that regularly took out opposition players. A Thornton Grove Academy pupil also stood out, showing the ability to single‑handedly turn matches around when left as the final player on court. Hailsham Academy’s strength came from a player who repeatedly made outstanding catches, throwing themselves around the court and often diving to the floor to keep their team in the game. This was supported by several players who demonstrated excellent throwing accuracy.

The match results reflected just how competitive the tournament was. Each match win was worth 2 points, a draw 1 point, and a loss 0 points, with the figures in brackets showing the number of games won within each fixture. White House enjoyed a strong run of results, winning matches against Hawkes Farm (3–1 in games), Thornton Grove (3–2), and Herstmonceux (4–0). Thornton Grove secured important wins against Hawkes Farm (3–2) and Herstmonceux (2–1), demonstrating resilience in tightly contested games. Hawkes Farm earned a victory against Herstmonceux, winning 5–2 in games, while Herstmonceux continued to compete positively throughout, taking individual games in several fixtures.

Thanks to a combination of excellent catching, accurate throwing, and strong teamwork, Hailsham Academy went unbeaten on the night, finishing top of the table with 8 points to become the overall winners. White House Academy finished a close second, followed by Thornton Grove, Hawkes Farm, and Herstmonceux, with all teams playing in great spirit from start to finish.

I have to say that this is one of my favourite events that I have run in all the years of organising Hailsham Primary Cluster competitions. There was a different level of energy and excitement throughout the evening, both on and off the court, which really made the event special. It is certainly an event that will be staying firmly on the calendar for future years.

Once again, a huge congratulations must go to Hailsham Academy for winning this year’s tournament and being the well‑deserved 2026 champions. Mr Delmon.

Please see the final standings in the table below: