Sporting Success

Dear Parents and Guardians,
I’m delighted to share some highlights from what has been a truly outstanding Summer Term for sport at Habs
Defining sporting success isn’t always straightforward. Is it the silverware, the medals, the national titles? Or is it the sheer number of students getting involved, staying active, and enjoying the journey? AtHabs, we believe it’s both. We celebrate excellence at the highest level while championing participation, wellbeing, and the lifelong value of sport. This term, our students have delivered on all fronts.
In cricket, we’ve lifted three County Cupsat U13, U14, and U15 levels a remarkable achievement. But just as impressive is the depth of engagement: over 270 students have taken part, with 20 teamscompeting in fixtures and co-curricular sessions buzzing with energy and enthusiasm. Cricket at Habs is thriving, thanks to the outstanding leadership of Mr James Hewitt, our Director of Cricket.
Athletics has seen a surge in both performance and participation. We’ve had national-level individual successes, 10 county medallists, a County Plate win, and a place in the regional finals. Even more encouraging is the growing number of students getting involved 80 and rising. I’m especially grateful to the teachers who have supported me in running the athletics programme this term your commitment has been invaluable. Tennis continues to go from strength to strength. Our senior team came agonisingly close to securing their third national title a phenomenal effort from a young squad with two more years to chase that dream. Meanwhile, participation is booming, with large numbers playing in fixtures and even more enjoying co-curricular sessions. Huge thanks to Mr Andy Lee, our Head of Tennis, for his tireless work and passion for the sport.
Beyond these headline sports, the Habs Dash continues to capture the spirit of our community. It’s a brilliant example of how sport at Habs isn’t just about competition it’s about connection, wellbeing, and fun. Students and staff alike have embraced it, showing just how much we value an active lifestyle.
To all the staff who have supported sport this term thank you. Your energy, time, and belief in the power of sport make everything possible. To our students, your dedication, resilience, and team spirit have been inspiring. And to our parents thank you for the early starts, the lifts, the sideline support, and most of all, for trusting us to guide your children through their sporting journeys.
With recent findings from the Youth Sport Trust highlighting the growing importance of physical activity, I hope this newsletter inspires even more of our community to get involved. Sport at Habs is thriving and it’s only just getting started.
With best wishes,
Mr Peter Pickford
Acting Director of Sport and Head of Sports Science
2025 has been another fantastic season for the cricket club.
We fielded over 24 teams from Year 7 through to the 1st XI, with more than 400 boys and girls playing in over 260 fixtures, including internal T20 matches. This is only possible thanks to the outstanding support of our teaching and coaching staff, as well as the parents, to whom I am sincerely grateful.
We continued to compete in a challenging block of fixtures against major cricketing schools such as Abingdon, Berkhamsted, and Haileybury. These high-level matches offered invaluable opportunities for our pupils to develop their skills against elite opposition.
1st XI Highlights
The 1st XI built on the experience of younger players from 2024 and enjoyed a highly successful season, particularly in Saturday fixtures.
•Standout Performances:
•Atharv S (10R2) – 600+ runs, including a century against Abingdon in a 20-run victory.
•Harry B (SFM2) – 20 wickets.
•Luca P (11H2) – 5 for 5 and a half-century (53) in a 214-run win over Forest.
•Krish H (10R2) – 99 against Fraser Bird
Representative Honours
We are proud to celebrate a number of boys who achieved county honours this season:
•Luca ) (11H2) – Middlesex U16 (Captain)
•Atharv S (10R2) – Middlesex U15 & U16, Middlesex Academy
•Krish H (10R2) – Middlesex U15
•Ishaan A (9R1) – Middlesex U14
•Ahaan D (10H2) – Hertfordshire U15
•Ishan V (10C1) – Hertfordshire U15
•Harivansh P (6SA) – Middlesex U11
•Kabir G (6NT) – Middlesex U11
A special congratulations to Atharv S (10R2), who made his debut for the Middlesex 2nd XI, featuring in two T20 matches – a remarkable achievement at such a young age. Atharv has also been selected for the prestigious Bunbury L&E squad, representing the top U15 cricketers in the country.
Our junior teams also enjoyed a brilliant year, with three County Cup victories:
•Year 8 (Coach: Mr Kerry)
•Year 9 (Coach: Mr Haring)
•Year 10 (Coach: Mr Moon)
The Year 9 team also participated in a two-day T20 tournament at Epsom College, gaining valuable match experience.
In April, our Year 10 A team travelled to Dubai to compete in the Arch Tournament. The boys adapted superbly to the conditions, finishing 2nd overall. A huge thank you to Mr Moon and Mr Huntley for accompanying the team on this memorable tour.
The 1st XI attended a two-day competition hosted by Blundell’s School in June, playing T10 and T20 matches against Blundell’s, Reigate Grammar, and Pocklington School in challenging 33°C heat. Thanks to Mr Coleman for his support during the trip.
We were delighted to continue integrating cricketers from the Girls’ School into Saturday fixtures. Girls from Years 7–10 played regularly throughout the summer, and we aim to increase participation even further in 2026.
A historic moment came in June as our U18 Girls’ team played their first-ever hardball match, securing a dominant 8-wicket win at North London Collegiate School. Enormous thanks to Mr McIntosh for his dedication and leadership in developing girls' cricket this year.
A special thank you to Mr Kemmett and the ground staff for maintaining outstanding wickets and training facilities that significantly enhance player development. We also extend our thanks to the catering team for their continued support throughout the season.
Cricket Awards 2025
•Junior Doug Yeabsley Award – Arihant B (8M2)
•Most Improved Junior Schoolboy – Sebastian M (8R2)
•Middle School Doug Yeabsley Award – Atharv S (10R2)
•Senior School Stephen Charlwood Award – Aarush B (SFH1 & Harry B (SFM2)
We look forward to an exciting 2026 season as we continue to drive Habs Cricket forward with fresh plans and renewed ambition.
Thank you for all your support.
Mr Hewitt Director of Cricket
This year has been a truly outstanding one for our athletics programme, marked by exceptional participation, remarkable individual achievements, and strong team performances across all levels. We were thrilled to welcome Rob Wright to our coaching team—an international high jump coach whose expertise and enthusiasm have been invaluable in inspiring and engaging our students across all athletic disciplines.
A huge congratulations must go to the 165 students who have taken part in athletics sessions this year. Their commitment, energy, and determination have been the foundation of our success. Whether training after school, competing at local meets, or representing the school at county and national level, every student has contributed to a season we can all be proud of. Our school continues to compete in the prestigious English Schools Athletics Association (ESAA) Track and Field Cup, the Hertfordshire Schools Athletics League, and the Hertfordshire Schools County Championship. These competitions provide a platform for our athletes to test themselves against the best in the region and beyond.
This summer, Josh H (Year 11) delivered a historic performance at the Welsh Championships, winning the 400m and breaking a long-standing record from 1993 with a blistering time of 48.70 seconds. At the 2025 Hertfordshire Schools County Championships, our athletes brought home an impressive 10 medals:
• Josh H (11C2) – Gold, U17 400m
• Chu O (10C2) – Gold, U17 Discus
• Aryan M (9R2) – Gold, U15 High Jump
• Anand D (7H)– Gold, U13 800m
• Seth S (7J) – Gold, U13 Hurdles & Javelin
• Zach S (9S1) – Silver, U15 Long Jump
• Noah S (7J) – Silver, U13 800m
• Tobi A (10R2) – Bronze, U17 Shot Put
• Max L (9M2) – Bronze, U15 300m
Several of our top athletes have also been selected to represent Hertfordshire at the English Schools Championships this year: Rafi G (SFR1) in the 3000m, Josh H (11C2) in the 400m, Chu O (10C2) in the discus, Tobi A (10R2) in the shot put, and Aryan M (9R2) in the high jump. We wish them the very best as they compete on the national stage.
Our intermediate team (Years 9 and 10) had a particularly strong season, reaching the Regional A Final of the ESAA Track and Field Cup and winning the Hertfordshire Athletics League County Plate. Meanwhile, our promising junior team made their mark by progressing to the ESAA Regional B Final and finishing as runners-up in the County Plate Finals.
This season has been a celebration of talent, teamwork, and tenacity. We are incredibly proud of all our athletes and look forward to building on this success in the year ahead.
Mr Pickford
At the start of May, Sam Z (11S2) and David G (11S1) won the U18 Hertfordshire Schools County Doubles Championships held at Welwyn Tennis Club. They fought off competition from 15 other teams in the draw with fine victories against Berkhamsted, Broxbourne and Chancellors before easing to a 6-0 win in the final against Sandringham.
In the U14 event, Xander R (9C2) and Rafi R (7R) won comfortably against Parmiters, St Columba’s and Berkhamsted but then lost out on a deciding tie-break to a strong Verulam pairing in a close encounter in the final.
Photo below (left to right) of part of the U14 team: Riyan D (7S) and Konstantinos M (9M1), and the U18 team: David G (11S1), Sam Z (11S2), Saaj M (SFR1) and Josh G (SFH3).
On Wednesday 21st May HABS hosted the Hertfordshire Schools U12 Doubles Tournament, with over 60 boys from a mix of 12 state and independent schools competing in the evening sunshine.
After fine performances to overcome Berkhamsted, Sandringham and Verulam in the group stage and then Aldenham in the semi-final, Habs 1st pair, Rafi R (7R) and Riyan D (7S), reached the final. With a large crowd of parents, teachers and participants watching on, they took the lead against an imposing Aldwickbury team but were then pegged back to lose narrowly after a great battle.
In the ‘less experienced’ tournament which ran alongside the main draw, Aarev V (7C) and Samraat S (7H) saw off challenges from Chancellors, Parmiters, DAO and Beaumont to finish in 3rd place. Most importantly all the boys acted impeccably both on and off the court, showing great sportsmanship throughout the event.
Photo below of the U12 team (left to right): Anand (7H), Charlie (7S), Rayan (7M), Rodrigo (7H), Rafi (7R), Riyan (7S), Niyam (7J), Reeday (7C) and Ethan (7J).
At the start of July our best tennis players competed in the Independent Schools Tennis Championships. Having won the U15 category last year, David G (11S1), Kaaviyan P (11J2), Kian H (11H1) and Kai H (SFH3) faced the daunting prospect of stepping up to enter the U19 Youll Cup. The team put in a fantastic performance to exceed all expectations and reach the semifinals!
The top 60 tennis teams from all over the country converged on Eton to compete in the 4-day annual event – the most prestigious national tournament in the school tennis calendar.
On the Sunday in our opening match both pairs eased to straight sets wins against The Leys, before taking on a talented Eltham College team on the Monday in the round of 16. Raising their level on key points, David and Kaaviyan had to dig deep to emerge victorious with an epic 7-6 (86), 6-7 (5-7), 10-8 scoreline in a match lasting over 3 hours in 32 degree heat! Kian and Kai backed them up with a fine performance to beat their 2nd pair convincingly.
KCS Wimbledon provided another tough test in the quarter-finals on the Tuesday, proving too strong for Kian and Kai in the 2nd pair match. Facing an exit from the tournament David and Kaaviyan had to win to keep the tie alive. After some superb shot-making and real grit they came through 6-3, 6-3 to set up a one-set shoot-out to decide who would progress to the semi-finals. Kaaviyan and Kian teamed up and showed great composure while playing under immense pressure to seal a 6-3 scoreline.
Although taking on one of the most successful tennis academies in the country, Ewell Castle, in the semi-finals proved to be a bridge too far this year, the team look forward to the challenge of trying to win the title over the next two years.
In the U15 category there was a notable performance by Xander R (9C2) and Konstantinos M (9M1), who teamed up to reach the last 16. They recorded fine wins against KES Witley, Framlingham, Marlborough and The Leys to top their group before an agonising loss to Eltham College on a championship tie-break. Another special mention goes to Year 7 prospects Rafi R (7R) and Riyan D (7S) who narrowly missed out on making the quarter-finals at U13 level on their debut at the Championships.
Mr A Lee
Mr Thomas reports on the final of the Year 7 ESFA Cup – a brilliant occasion attended by all year 7 students.
The standout highlight of the football season came from our Year 7 team, who reached the ESFA National Final at The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion an extraordinary achievement in their debut season. It was a fantastic occasion, with the entire Year 7 cohort in attendance, proudly supporting their peers in what was a memorable day for the school. Unfortunately, we were beaten by a very strong Ribblesdale High School from Lancashire. While we were disappointed not to have performed at our best and are confident the match could have looked very different had we done so—we take enormous pride in reaching the final and will carry many positives from the day, the game, and the overall experience. Having now tasted a national final for the first time in the school’s history; we are hopeful that this will stand us in good stead for future opportunities and inspire further ambition across all year groups.
The 2024/25 season marked a historic chapter for HABS water polo, running from October to June and showcasing remarkable achievements across all age groups. The standout moment came with the U13 boys being crowned National Champions at the ESSA National Finals, a testament to their tactical discipline and teamwork. The U15 and U18 squads also delivered commendable performances, both securing fifth place and demonstrating competitive spirit and leadership.
Across 52 matches played by seven boys’ teams, HABS recorded 35 wins, achieving an impressive overall win rate of approximately 67%. The London League and friendly fixtures provided vital opportunities for tactical experimentation and squad rotation, particularly benefiting the U12 and U13 players. The U12s laid a strong foundation for future success through regional victories and development tournaments, while the U11s triumphed in their regional competition with four consecutive wins.
Youth development was a key theme, with 13 students selected to train at national Talent Centres, and five Year 11 players contributing to Watford Water Polo Club’s National Age Group Championship win. Senior players also gained valuable experience in the Men’s National League, while U14s played a pivotal role in securing London League and local tournament victories.
The season also featured an international tour for the U13 champions, who competed in France and Belgium, representing HABS with distinction and building lasting team camaraderie. With strong squad depth, national recognition, and international exposure, the 2024/25 season firmly established HABS water polo as a rising force in the sport. Mr Brkovic
Our annual Senior Sports Day returned to StoneX Stadium for the fourth consecutive year – and what a day it was! With a buzzing atmosphere and a spirit of healthy competition, students gave their all across a packed schedule of track and field events.
On the track, the action was non-stop with hurdles, sprints, middle-distance races, and the everpopular squadron relay drawing loud support from the stands. In the field, athletes demonstrated their strength and skill in long jump, triple jump, high jump, javelin, discus, shot put, the tug of war, and the explosive medicine ball throw.
Beyond the competition, what truly sets this day apart is the exceptional community spirit that shines throughout. It’s a collaborative celebration involving students, staff, and supporters – one of the largest and most inclusive sports days seen anywhere in the UK. The event provided a platform for some incredible individual performances, with students showcasing their talents in front of a large and appreciative crowd. Yet equally memorable were the moments of selflessness and determination, especially in the long-distance races, where students stepped up to earn valuable points for their Houses. Some of the biggest cheers were reserved for these displays of resilience and heart – examples of what it means not just to challenge oneself, but to lift others in the process.
A huge congratulations to this year’s champions – The Orange Griffins (Powell and Calverts) –who delivered an outstanding all-round team performance to take home the title!
Thank you to the many individuals who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this day possible. Through months of planning, dedication, sweat – and possibly a few tears – you’ve helped create something truly special. There really is no other event quite like it.
Mr McIntosh
7am HabsDash in Lower Manhattan
Habsdash has been very helpful in keeping me active every week. Along with parkrun, it has helped me improve distance running. When I tried hard, it always felt horrible but then when I finished I always felt really good. Especially when I had got a PB. I always wanted to do it though and I built up a streak that I want to keep going. What helped me not break that streak was there always being something to work for like the rainbow hat and now the 100 Habsdash reward. I will definitely continue Habsdash next year.
Hayat A (8S)
HabsDash has become a highlight of my school week. Having completed 150 runs, it’s more than just a way to stay fit- it’s a weekly challenge and a great mental reset. Whether I’m pushing myself to beat a personal best or simply enjoying a relaxed run with friends, the consistency of HabsDash keeps me motivated and active. One of my favourite memories is completing a run in heavy rain everyone was soaked, but the
atmosphere was full of laughter.
Saaj M (12R)
For me, HabsDash is not just fifteen minutes of exercise, it is a competition that brings together all years to try to run as best as you can. This is what HabsDash is about. However fast or slow you run, there are always people to help push you on and help you run the fastest you can. In HabsDash, you have to constantly push yourself to the limit to improve by even a few seconds. For me, HabsDash makes Tuesdays. Jonathan G (9H2)
Mr Gillard reports on a great term of Prep Sport success
The 2024–2025 academic year has seen an outstanding level of participation and achievement across the Prep School's sporting programme. With over 500 fixtures completed across both block fixtures and competitive cup events, pupils have represented the school in an extensive range of sports including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, basketball, hockey, table tennis, handball, swimming, cross country, athletics, golf, and chess.
This summer term has been a particular highlight, with several notable accomplishments across a number of sports:
The U11A cricket team, captained by Harivansh P (6SA), had an excellent season, narrowly missing out on national qualification and finishing as runners-up in the Hertfordshire U11 County Cup. A combined U11 mixed cricket team (boys and girls) also excelled, securing 3rd place at the Dynamo Cricket County Finals.
Habs enjoyed tremendous success on the tennis courts:
The U11A team of James B (6SA), Adam J (6MN), Joe F (6SA), and Ari (6MN) were crowned IAPS National Champions, winning the prestigious tournament hosted at Clifton College, Bristol.
Our U10 team triumphed in the LTA Mini Green Tournament, while the U9 team were victorious in the LTA Mini Orange Tournament.
The U11A table tennis team achieved one of the school’s best results to date, finishing in the Top 3 nationally at the England Table Tennis Championships. The team, comprising Adam J (6MN), Vihaan M (6NT), James B (6SA), Ari S (6MN), and Riki S (5DK), also placed 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in various categories of the IAPS National Table Tennis Competition.
In golf, a strong team effort led to a 5th place finish at the ISGA National Finals. Sayam S (6SA) and Avni S (4RS) were key contributors, with Sebastian M (6NT) also featuring in fixtures throughout the season. Athletics
The school enjoyed significant individual success in the East Area Athletics meet:
Daniyal J (5DK)won the 800m
Gabriel B (4SH) took 1st place in the 55m Hurdles
Max S (4DS) finished 2nd in the 600m Daniyal J (5DK) demonstrated exceptional promise by finishing 2nd in the U12 1500m event in Bedford, competing two years above his age group and aiming for national qualification.
A talented group of Year 5 and Year 6 pupils competed in the ESSA Inter-District Gala Championships, showcasing their continued progress in the pool against the strongest swimmers in the region.
The U11's also competed at a National Water Polo Competition.
Huge congratulations to the following students who have achieved success in their sports this term
Dilan R (7H) – County level Table Tennis
Zeeshan C (SFS1) – Herts U17 Squad Rugby
Max L (9M2) – Waford FC, Herts, ISFA England Football
Misha S (7C), Jacob D (7J), Reeday N (7C)– Hockey London Youth Games Team
Joshua H (9R2) – Herts County Badminton team
Niyam P (7J)– Top 5 UK ranking for Fencing
Hugh P (10H1) Wales National Squad member – Squash
Max W (7H) – Middlesex U12 League Champions – Rugby
Noah M (SFJ3) – National league and trophy winner - Ice Hockey
George W (10R1 ) & Shiven J (11H2) Herts 2025 ICT
Champions and the Badminton England U19 Shires League Champions
Ishaan S (11R) – England Team Kho Kho World Cup
Just look what the staff have been up to this term!
Mr Cooper had a season to remember with Hampstead and Westminster Ladies 1st XI. In his second season as head coach, the club won their first European trophy and finished as league winners, losing only one match throughout the course of the season.
Having passed through qualification rounds in London & Cardiff, Mr Huntley attended a Hyrox World Championship Qualifier event in Lativa, competing in doubles & relay events, with the aim of qualifying for Chicago's World Championship event. In the relay event Tom's team managed to achieved a sub 55 minute time, narrowly missing out on qualification
Mr Teague ran the Great Welsh Marathon on the 16th March. Says Mr Teague, “It was a beautiful, crisp, sunny morning with the runners gathering in Pembrey Country Park, on the coast West of Swansea. We kept hearing ‘fast and flat’ through the speakers as the excitement and nerves grew in the starting pen. Months of training leading to this moment, and the conditions were perfect. The countdown, the start, and finally I was running along the beautiful coast of the Gower Peninsula. The run was amazing and I would have been delighted with any time under 4 hours so when I saw my pace was below this, I was ecstatic. My gun time was 03:42:03, and meeting the welcome team at the finish line couldn’t have been happier to have smashed it! Thanks to the Habs community for supporting me, it really helped in the more painful moments of the run. I’m already looking ahead to the next one.”
Last summer Mrs S Edwards was appointed as the Co Event Director and one of the run directors for a new parkrun at Oaklands College in St Albans. She reports:
‘ We spent 6 months liaising with the college, measuring and risk assessing different course possibilities, arranging kit deliveries and recruiting people to volunteer. After a false start thanks to some icy weather in the new year we held our first event on the 18th January 2025 where I took the helm as Run Director. The High Sherriff of Hertfordshire came to start the first event, and we had some special appearances from some Habs staff, with Mr Teague completing his first ever parkrun at that day!
This week we are hosting event number 22. Having quickly gained a reputation for deep mud and swamps, we have now settled on version 4 of the course which is a drier multi-terrain trail course with a series of out and back sections. We have around 150 runners each week. Over 3000 people have completed the course with an average finish time of 32:20, and 284 different people have volunteered. ‘
In April Miss Noble ran the Brighton Marathon in a time of 3hrs 50mins.
‘ I had hoped to go a little quicker than that but I went off too quick and the heat on the day caught up with me. I still believe I have a sub 3hr 45min marathon in me to try and get close to what Mr Teague managed!’
On 12 April 2025 Mrs Wylie took on the South Downs Way 50 Mile Ultramarathon, her longest running challenge to date. She reflets: ‘ It was hot, hilly and brutal, but with the benefit of hindsight (and rest) a great experience! ‘