Mallorca Tennis and Athletics Trip 2011

Setting off from the Dragon at 3.00 a.m. meant the Dragons arrived in Mallorca with a full day to acclimatise and make the most of the facilities and the stunning weather. The incredible quality of the food on offer, from fresh fish and salads to an array of puddings, was to be a highlight of the trip. It allowed every young Dragon, as a budding athlete, to eat a well-balanced and varied diet.

The hotel where the group stayed is near the town of Capdepera and has an impressive array of facilities that kept the children entertained. As well as the twelve clay tennis courts, there are three swimming pools, a crazy golf course, ping-pong tables, several boule pistes, a volleyball court, a basketball court, football pitch and even a team of entertainment staff. A fantastic beach is just seconds away and the athletics stadium where the children trained every morning, just a short bus trip.

Throughout the trip, the weather was perfect for tennis and athletics. The children were lucky to have coaching of the highest quality. Jaume, the athletics coach, is one of the most highly-rated coaches in Spain. He brought insight, invention and enjoyment to each training session and the children developed huge respect for him. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed playing tennis on clay in such searing heat - a new experience to most and own which allowed many Dragons to draw personal comparisons with Mallorca’s most famous son, Rafa Nadal! Midway through the week, the group travelled into Palma, to shop and to see the impressive Gothic Cathedral and Old Town, followed by a trip to the highly rated Aquarium. They regularly ventured to the local beach for rounders, sea swimming, rugby and rock climbing.

Special mentions must be made of Fran Marsden and Edmund Belcher, who were awarded the accolades of “Athletes of the Week”, and the same to Kyla Haslett-Hawkins and Christian Deverell for being the “Tennis Players of the Week”.

An honourable mention could be made for every Dragon for his or her impeccable behaviour and countless acts of kindness and enthusiasm. The conduct and maturity of all drew several compliments from members of the public, both at the hotel and when travelling. Thanks to Bella Dawes and Nick Graham, as well as all of the children, for making Mallorca 2011 such a wonderful trip.

Tim Knapp
Year 4 Teacher and Assistant Director of Sport
2011