January 18, 2001 10:40: OAKWOOD Netball Club have won the sport's most prestigious and high profile title, the first division of the National Clubs League.The win capped a magnificent year 2000 for Oakwood, who can count several current and former England players, including two ex-England captains, amongst their players.

Oakwood clinched the title with an overwhelming 64-39 win against Middlesex rivals Academy. The crunch match was a dramatic fixture against reigning champions Linden from Birmingham which Oakwood won 49-40.

The depth and strength of the squad was the main factor behind Oakwood's success. The high standard was set by Jo Zinzan-Moxham and Fiona Murtagh (MBE), both ex-England captains and Commonwealth Games bronze medal winners.

Zinzan-Moxham teamed up with Teresa Lee in defence to make it difficult for the opposing shooters to settle or keep possession. In centre court, Sara Horne, Helen Lonsdale and Jo Wilson rotated and each played a key role in serving the shooters, Melanie Mansfield and Lynn Carpenter (another England player).

The club also benefited from the skills of Lucia Sdao, another recently retired England international, who played several games before sustaining an injury.

Oakwood's coach, Anna Sweeney from Australia, has made a significant difference this year to the team's approach to its games. But Oakwood's success has not been limited to the National Clubs League as they have developed a talented crop of youngsters. Many have played representative netball at county and regional level.

This year, for the first time ever, an Oakwood under-16 side qualified for the finals of the National Youth Championships.

Oakwood are a dynamic club fielding six sides, catering for all levels of netball. For details on playing, umpiring or coaching, contact Lesley Avent (020 8482 0483) or Kim Parker (020 8882 4044).

The National League winning playing squad was: D Wilkinson, T Lee, J Zinzan-Moxham, F Murtagh, N Mirams, J Tanner, S Horne, L Sdao, J Wilson, L Avent, L Carpenter, M Mansfield and A Marshall.