The second of three trial camps saw a strong turnout of players in both +40 and +45 Women’s categories, all vying for a spot on next season’s teams.
After setting out the expectations for the trial and what they would be looking for, the ladies were led through their warmup routine before getting on court with some dribbling workouts. With the dreaded fitness stations looming, the team were conveniently evacuated for a fire alarm and took the opportunity to call those players not able to make the session due to illness and check in on their squad mates.
After another warmup, the players started back in some 3v3 work, with the coaching teams building in specific aspects key to the identity the teams will be playing with this season. This work was then expanded to 4v4 and finally 5v5.
It was nice to welcome players from all home nations, some who had travelled huge distances to attend and it’s always difficult for the coaches to mix new players into an established group. To say this is the first session back for a lot of players and the addition of those new players, the IQ and teamwork on display was where we would it expect it to be in a couple more sessions times, so that was really pleasing to see. They were pushing each other hard, but also supporting and encouraging each other, which is great to see in a competitive trial environment.
Coach Lauder
Day 2 started with a feedback session from the previous day, with players encouraged to share and exchange their views and discuss what they got out of it and what they wanted out of the second day. With more of a defensive focus, the ladies replicate the dribbling drills from the day before but with defensive pressure as the coaching team highlighted positioning and movement. Coach Harrison then introduced a fun footwork drill that had everyone working hard but laughing throughout.
After a deserved break, the squads worked on defence without the ball allowing the coaches to look at body angles and agility, before putting up some reps in a shooting session led by Coach Lauder.
The session ended with a highly competitive 5v5 game with coaching within it, to ensure the best options were being considered.
Sunday’s scrimmage was probably one of the best we’ve had, especially to say how early we are in the process. All the players made a very good case for selection and that’s all we can ask. They listened and worked hard throughout, and were enjoying being on court with each other. One of our most important rules is to have fun, and they certainly did that. I’m very excited for the future of this group and we will be putting our strongest ever side this season as we push for more medal success.
Coach Lauder
The final trial camp is on 15/16th November and you can still register your interest by completing the registration form or emailing admin@fimba-gb.com.
To keep up to date with the team’s journey in 2026, follow gbforties on Instagram and Facebook and if you are interested in partnering the +40 or +45 Women and support their journey in 2026 and beyond, you can find all the relevant details on our partners page.
