University of Sheffield trampolinists reached for the sky, beating Hallam in all three varsity categories for the second consecutive year at Goodwin.
On Sunday, 15th March, the final scores showed black and gold dominating across all boards, with 22 points in the lower level, 4 in intermediate, and 7 in higher, versus Hallam’s 14, 2, and 3.
Trampolinists arrived at Goodwin Hall in a sea of sparkling gold, black and red leotards. Music was blaring from speakers on the sidelines as competitors prepared for their routines, many carrying sparkly signs and fans. Four trampolines were set up in the centre of the hall, ready for the competition to come.
19-year-old University of Sheffield trampolinist, Abi Cross, looked forward to getting started. She said: “We did really well at Manchester, which is our most recent competition, so I’m really hyped for today.”
“Everyone’s just in a really good spirit, ready to get out there and win.”
Preparing to compete in her third and final varsity competition was Hallam trampolinist, Madeline Waldock, 21. She said: “I’m a bit sad.”
“I’ve got a part where I’ve got five somersaults in a row and sometimes I lose control a little bit so hopefully that won’t happen today!”
Despite having only 15 competitors in comparison to the University of Sheffield’s 33, the Hallam team remained ambitious.
Waldock said: “We might not have as many people as you, but our quality is top-notch so you’ve still got a good fight.”
Buzzing atmosphere
As the competition began, there was a friendly buzz in the air from both teams, who clapped and cheered for their teammates on the sidelines alongside supporters from the viewing balcony above.
Categories were staggered, beginning at 30-minute intervals and using two trampolines per level. Competitors ranged from bubbly and excited to focused and intense. But the atmosphere remained relaxed the entire day despite chatter dying as the higher levels took to the trampoline and routines became increasingly gravity-defying.
Hallam Coach Ben Alvey spoke with Forge reporters while the judges tallied up the scores: “I think they’ve performed very well.
“They’ve enjoyed every minute of it, we managed to train twice a week this time which we did not before so we’ve added a little bit more training this time compared to previous comps.”
University of Sheffield Team Captain, Abi Fitzpatrick, said: “I’m feeling pretty good. I think the whole team has done really well. I don’t think we should be nervous. I’m very proud.
“Everyone cheered for everyone we were always up on our feet, I think it’s really nice to see.”
A chat with the winners
In the higher category, Hallam’s Eve Roberts placed first out of the girls, and University of Sheffield’s Matthew Smith took first place among the boys.
Eve Roberts said: “I’m very happy with how I did.”
When asked if she would do anything differently next time, she said, “Maybe I’d do a harder routine now that I know what it’s like.”
Matthew Smith, 19, has been trampolining since he was 5 years old.
“Genuinely, I think I could have done better, but you know I’m happy, I got first, that’s all that matters,” he said, “I’ve been putting in a lot of work to be fair, my shins are always splintered, it hurts, but it was worth it in the end.”
A high-energy University of Sheffield defeated Sheffield Hallam today. The question is, will Hallam be able to take back a category next year?
