When the News Shopper reported on Vibrant Netball Club in September, one of their players predicted they would achieve their third successive promotion in the National League.

Now the Gravesend-based side has achieved its goal by winning the National Division Four League title.

A delighted Helen Fruin, from Sidcup, said: "I'm not really surprised. The feeling in the squad was good and we knew there was no reason why we could not win the league.

"Once we won our first few games we knew we were on our way up. Now we aim to go up again next season."

The most satisfying game of the season for Vibrant was beating a tough Leamington Ladies side, who were in second place below them in the table when they played each other.

Helen said: "This game was a real test for us all. It started fairly evenly but then we found ourselves down by 16-11 at the end of the first quarter.

"By half-time, the margin had been reduced to two goals. We then made a few tactical substitutions going into the third quarter and the game gradually turned our way and ended up wnning 51-46.

"The game could have gone either way, but we dug deep and took advantage of their mistakes.

"Both sides were unbeaten at that stage and whoever won knew they would go on and win the league. So it was a tough game, especially as it was away."

In September, Vibrant travelled to Birmingham to take on Bourneville, the team who were promoted with them last season and were unbeaten.

Helen said: "We got off to a great start and went from strength to strength, getting sweet revenge for the previous season's defeats, winning 55-31."

Meanwhile, in the Kent League,

Vibrant are bang on course for that title too, having won all but one of their games, which was drawn.

This season's squad comprises Carol Brissenden, Sally Skudder, Helen Fruin, Caroline Moran, Sharon Welfare, Julie Clark, Susie Clarke, Claire Pomroy, Rachel Windeatt, Sarah Bartholomew, Erika Mint, maureen Keith, Sue King,

Andrea Spittle and Sue Sims.

Helen added: "We have this season gained sponsorship from Adam Martin of 42nd Street Cocktail Bar and Restaurant in Bexleyhetah, which has enabled us to buy a new indoor and outdoor away kit. We would like to thank Adam for his sponsorship."

December 20, 2001 13:00