Student Success
Congratulations to D’arcy Wright, Year 13, who has been selected to represent GB at the 2025 Horseball World Cup and has previously competed at the European Championships.
Please find below D’arcy’s article explaining what Horseball is and outlining the experiences that she has had.
What is horseball?
Horseball is a fast-paced, team equestrian sport that demands high levels of skill, agility and determination from its players. While riding horses, two teams of four compete to score goals by throwing a small ball (which is covered in leather handles) into a 4.5-meter vertical hoop. The game requires players to pick the ball up from the ground at speed (known as a pickup), make three passes between three different players on their team and head towards the goal – all whilst avoiding the defence and keeping excellent control of their horse by mainly using their legs (or at least trying to anyway).
Originating in France, Horseball remains a hidden minority sport globally. However, with its fast-growing community and endless explanations to others why someone would willingly swing their body vertically off a galloping horse to grab a ball, the sport is steadily gaining popularity.
Representing my country in Horseball has been a deeply rewarding and extraordinary experience. Competing at the European Championships in 2023, training and competing with teams in Barcelona and Canada in 2024, and now preparing to represent my country in the World Cup and second European Championships in 2025 have provided me with some of the most enriching, valuable experiences of my life.
The camaraderie among the players has always enhanced my love for the sport. Every player feels part of one slightly chaotic family, all united in our shared love for the crazy adrenaline rushes and horses. Travelling to different countries, experiencing diverse cultures and bonding with international teammates has provided me with the most unforgettable experiences.
That said, competing on the international stage demands rigorous training for both horse and rider. It’s a partnership built on trust, discipline and countless hours of practice. My journey has included many 6am rides before school, late-night training and countless weekends away, dedicated to perfecting my game. Balancing the demands of an international sport with studying for A-levels may sound like a recipe for stress, but competing in Horseball has given me more than just physical and mental skills- it has instilled me with discipline, resilience and strong communication skills.
Being part of a minority sport like Horseball, has meant continuously advocating for its recognition and growth, which has boosted my confidence and public speaking skills. Thus, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities Horseball has offered me so far and all the constant support from my family, friends, teachers and teammates. All their support has been, and always will be invaluable.
D’arcy Wright (Year 13)
If you would like to hear their performance please ask them because it is in their google classroom.
Finally, the Dale Dance Trophy Award this year was awarded to Erin Shiel and Erin Taylor for their commitment to Dance during their time at Presdales. Erin and Erin have been dance leaders and performed in Dance Evening for many years. We with you both all the best and thank you for always embracing dance at Presdales and being fully committed as a dancer and a dance leader.
