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| 24 Mar 2026 | |
| Written by Chloe Feeney | |
| Alumni News |
A Brilliant Weekend of OBM Sport
What a weekend! More than 200 OBMs returned to School for two days packed with sport, reunions and an incredible community spirit. From football on Friday to hockey, netball and rugby on Saturday, it was a celebration of competition and connection.
Friday Night: Festival of Football
The action began on the pitch, where the BMS 1st XI secured their first victory in ten years against the OBM 1st XI in a thrilling headline match. The 2nd and 3rd XI teams continued the momentum with fast paced, competitive round robin fixtures, creating a brilliant atmosphere across all pitches.
Following the games, players and supporters gathered in the King Room for refreshments and the presentation of the Neale Else Cup and the inaugural John White Shield. The evening was topped off by a hilarious yet emotional speech from John White, who reflected on 32 years of unforgettable successes - and the many amusing trials and tribulations along the way. His stories drew laughter, applause and genuine appreciation from all present.
Saturday: Hockey, Netball and Rugby
Saturday brought another full day of sport, with a fantastic turnout of spectators across the School grounds.
Kicking off the day, the women’s hockey match was a fast and competitive game, with the pitch lined with spectators. After an intense match, the BMS team came away with an impressive and well‑deserved win.
Following the women’s hockey, the men’s fixture continued to draw the crowds, and like the women’s match, both teams were equally matched throughout. End-to-end action kept everyone gripped right up to the final whistle, with the match finishing in an exciting and hard-earned draw.
This year’s netball fixtures saw a record number of players, with two OBM teams and two BMS teams taking to the court - our largest turnout yet. The matches were showcased a real depth of talent across all squads. The BMS team secured a strong victory in the first year of the new OBM Netball trophy, generously donated by Neil Oliver (1971-78), who also umpired one of the matches and provided winning medals - a brilliant new tradition now firmly established.
The weekend concluded with the ever-popular Bruce Willey Memorial match. In a committed and physical contest, the Over-20s secured victory, lifting The Saunders Cup, presented by John Saunders (1943-51). The Headmaster, David Payne, awarded the Bruce Willey Cup to the standout student player, Josh.
Celebrations continued in the King Room with food, drinks and plenty of catching up.
View photos from the weekend below:
