Derby Grammar School hosted the first new format of one of England’s oldest sports.
With its origins dating back to Tudor times, rounders is played by more than 120,000 adults in the UK and has three female England squads that represent Rounders England.
On Wednesday (May 25), youngsters in Derbyshire schools were among the first to try out the new format as they go head-to-head at a unique ‘Rounders Roadshow’.
Derby Grammar School said it was delighted to host the Derby leg of the roadshow which is also due to visit Swadlincote, Chesterfield and Matlock.
Head Paul Logan (pictured) said: “We are proud to be hosting this showcase and helping to develop the future of rounders. Sport is a huge part of our curriculum here at Derby Grammar School, and will be the main focus of our Open Morning on June 18 so it felt right for us to be a part of this showcase.”
Those who take part in the showcase will be following a new format developed by Rounders England, Go Rounders; a modified version of the game for Key Stage 2 primary school children – those between the ages of eight and 10. It is intended that the modifications of the traditional game will complement the different stages of development.
Working in collaboration with Progressive Sports Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Nottingham, coaches from Rounders England will put children through their paces as they pilot the new-look format ahead of a national roll-out in 2023.
Progressive Sports Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Nottingham host after school and holiday clubs across the region and also partner with primary schools to deliver their PE sessions which are in line with the Ofsted framework.
Director Adam Holland said: “We are delighted to be working with Rounders England on this exciting new format of what is a brilliant game.
“I’m sure everyone has fond memories of playing rounders when they were at school and we want to prove that this sport is something that is also suitable for secondary schools, adults, colleges, universities and work-place team building.
“We have seen the growth of sports such as American Football, handball and dodgeball in recent years – one of the most requested-for extra-curricular sports we deliver is Glow In The Dark Dodgeball – and to be asked to pilot the new format right here in Derbyshire is an honour.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the relationship between Progressive Sports and Rounders England develop.”
