East Sussex had one representative at this years under 18 national finals, held at Melton Mowbray IBC on Saturday 29th March. Isaac Grant of Rotherfield SMBC made the journey for his first try at a national finals.
Isaac had a tough group, up against 3 current U21 England players. He lost his opening 2 mathches, playing his second again the eventual runner up. In his third match he won 11 – 7 in a close fought match against Humberside’s Alex Shelbourne.
Isaac went onto play in the Woodbridge trophy. In his first knock out match in the plate competition he played Hollie Norsden, also from Humberside and a current England under 21 player. Isaac was victorious, winning 12 – 7. In the quarter final he played Sid Burton from Norfolk , also an England player, again in a close match but unfortunately lost 7 – 11.
As recognition for his great play throughout the day, Isaac has been asked to join the England Under 21 squad for next season. This is a fantastic achievement for someone who has only been playing short mat bowls for two seasons.
In the main final, Chris Hardman from Hampshire narrowly beat Annabelle Almond from Greater Manchester 11-10.
The Woodbridge Trophy was won by Sid Burton from Norfolk who beat Grace Doorey from Kent.