The new year is always a great time to try out new things, and with over 80 extracurricular clubs and activities scheduled each and every week in the Prep School, there is plenty of choice for the boys.
One club that always proves popular is Fives. When we joined Mr Allen and the boys in the courts for the first session of the year, there was a great mix of those returning and new boys keen to give this historic game a go.
“It’s really fast-paced and fun!”
We play Rugby Fives at Bedford, which was mentioned in Tom Brown’s School Days way back in 1857! Fives is similar to squash, but instead of a racquet, the players hit the ball with gloves. While the game may have been around for over 160 years, it is still hugely popular with the boys here, who enjoy its speed and entertaining rallies. It is a real test for their reflexes and hand-eye coordination. It is also an excellent game for encouraging sportsmanship as there are no referees – it is up to the boys themselves to ensure fair play.
“It helps with cricket as you have to have good hand-eye coordination.”