St Swithun’s under 15 lacrosse squad snatched the National Schools Championship, rising from a 2-0 deficit to a triumphant 3-2 victory.

Acknowledged as comeback queens, the team dramatically triumphed over Claremont Fan Court, clinching the crucial under 15 title. Initially, they led their pool on a coin toss after matching records with Priestnall School.

Walthamstow Hall was their first victorious battle with a 3-1 result, followed by a 6-3 win over Moreton Hall in the quarter-finals. They slid past Caterham 3-2 in a nail-biting semi-final, setting the stage for the Claremont clash.

Despite trailing 2-0 in the final, the team forged a comeback to equalize the game. It was Poppy, who in the final minutes, struck the decisive goal, ensuring St Swithun’s crowned national champions.

Team captain Natasha said: "It was a fabulous day from start to finish, emotions and stakes were high. The positive vibes started right at the start of the day and were intensified after every single match and every single win.

"But the best feeling in the world was lifting that trophy at the end knowing that the tireless hours of hard work and training in the wet and rain had paid off and every single member of the team had put their 100% into the whole season.

"I remember looking at everyone smiling and laughing thinking that we had made it as the best U15 team in the country. Everyone worked so well together and I am so proud to captain such a fantastic team."

Coming back from 2-0 down in the final showed our grit, ruthlessness and determination. It was an amazing day, and one that we will never forget."

Lacrosse coach Tia Hislop said: "I could not be more proud of these girls. They showed incredible resilience, discipline and support for each other in a number of tough games to make the final.

"They kept their composure and dared to believe when it mattered the most and left all their energy and effort on the pitch. All of our teams have done St Swithun’s proud and I am so thrilled for this team to be taking home the U15 National Schools championship trophy."

St Swithun’s Headmistress Jane Gandee said: "We are delighted for the girls and everybody involved in lacrosse at the school. The way the team were able to relax under pressure and embrace the fun of playing together is a lesson to all of us."