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The Downs School Sports Awards 2025.  An Evening to Remember

On Wednesday, 16 July, The Downs School community gathered for a truly memorable celebration of sporting pride at our Sports Awards Evening 2025.

With anticipation filling the hall, students, families, staff and guests came together to reflect on an outstanding year of achievement across a wide range of sports. We celebrated athletics and football to equestrian and swimming, and our students have not only demonstrated great talent but also the values that make our school unique: Courage, Responsibility, Equality, Ambition, Resilience, Creativity and Integrity.

An Inspiring Speech from Brian McDermott

We were honoured to welcome Brian McDermott, former professional footballer and Reading FC manager, as our guest of honour. Brian shared his powerful reflections on resilience, mental health and the importance of perseverance through adversity. His journey, from player to Premier League manager, gave students an honest and moving insight into the determination it takes to succeed. He spoke passionately about finding belief within yourself, learning from setbacks, and staying true to your values. His message strongly echoed the CREARCI values we hold at the heart of our school.

Celebrating Standout Performances

This year’s Sport Leaders of the Year were Anna H, Honor P, Emily W, Isabella O-B, Cameron H and Osian W, each recognised for their reliability, encouragement and leadership both on and off the field.

Across every sporting category, we honoured players who brought energy, effort and team spirit to their squads. Some standout award winners included Edward E, Barney C, Finn B, Alfie C and Josh T in rugby; Emily G, Olive C and Anna S in girls' football; Elliott E, Rory M, Charlie W and Will O'B in boys' football; Regan W, Ava W, Imi S and Isabelle O-B in netball; and Lorenzo M, Jack W and Henry F in athletics. Each award reflected dedication, growth and contribution to school sport.

Top Honours

The Sports Team of the Year was awarded to the Boys’ Under 15 Athletics Squad, who delivered a remarkable team performance at the West Berkshire Championships, finishing 19 points clear at the top of the table.

The Colin Clay Trophy for Sporting Endeavour was awarded to Daisy D for her commitment, team spirit and inspiring development as a multi-sport athlete and leader.

The Leo Shepheard Cup for Sporting Excellence was awarded to Will O’B, a true all-rounder whose performances, leadership and positive attitude have left a lasting impression across many sports since Year 7.

Thanks were extended to the whole PE team, led by Mrs Sarah Miller-Cook, for their dedication, encouragement and belief in every student. Mr Dunne was thanked for his excellent organisation of the evening.

This event was a reminder that sport is about much more than results. It is about the values we live by, the friendships we build and the person we become through commitment, challenge and teamwork.