On Wednesday 4 October 2006, 31 Medway primary schools took part in the Medway Messenger Mini Youth Games netball tournament at the Rainham Netball Centre, Rainham School For Girls, with up to 300 children participating in an all-action day of netball and fun.

The games were played to the All England Netball Association High Fives Netball rules, where there are only five players on court instead of seven and players rotate positions at half time, so that the whole squad gets an opportunity to play in a variety of positions: e.g. central, defence or attack. This is the mini version of the sport for primary-aged children, where both boys and girls are encouraged to play.

Each school played 10 matches against other schools and the placings were decided on a league table basis, including the Fair Play Award. The winner of the tournament was Wainscott Primary School, finishing ahead of St Mary's Primary School on goal difference, with neither school losing a game. English Martyrs Primary School came third.

The Sports Development Team was delighted on the day to have two special guests to issue awards to all the teams. Every participant received a medal and certificate for participation from the Deputy Mayor of Medway, Councillor David Royle and a young local player, Courtney Cummins. Courtney is an excellent role model for the children, as she started playing at primary school and played in the local junior netball league, going on to represent Kent at under-14 level. At only 15 years of age, Courtney has been selected for the England under-17 Talent 1 squad and the Super League development squad, Brunel Hurricanes.

The most prestigious award of the tournament, the Fair Play Award, was awarded to Miers Court Primary School, who played well as a team, supported their team-mates whether they won or lost and respected their opponents and the umpires and officials. The Fair Play School won a shield, key rings, t-shirts and a sports bag full of netball equipment for the school.

The day would not have been possible without the tremendous support from numerous schools that supplied volunteer student umpires. In addition, there were several adult volunteer umpires who also gave up their time to help and support event.

MYG netball final places