St James School is celebrating a fantastic achievement this term as their Year 7 and 8 girls’ football team were crowned winners of the Catherine Fraser Memorial Tournament, beating 17 other teams from 12 schools to claim the top spot.

The annual tournament brought together over 100 players in a celebration of girls’ football, talent, and teamwork. Two St James teams competed in the competition, with one progressing all the way to the final and securing a thrilling 2–1 win over Exmouth in a nail-biting match.

The team was led by Miss Cornwell and Miss Zuurmond, and staff praised the players for their exceptional teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the day. The whole community at St James School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is celebrating the victory, which marks another high point in St James’ commitment to developing sport and leadership for all students.

The Catherine Fraser Memorial Tournament continues to be a key date in the local sporting calendar, encouraging greater participation and visibility in girls’ football. Organised by Exeter City Community Trust, the annual tournament serves as a testament to Catherine’s legacy. Catherine worked at the Exeter City Community Trust following her career as a journalist at The Times in London and the Express & Echo locally.

Presentations were made to the winners and runners-up by Catherine’s mother, Glenda Riley, and daughter, Dulcie Fraser. Glenda generously donated funds to establish the annual tournament after Catherine passed away in 2015 from breast cancer.

Emily Harper, Headteacher at St James School said:

“We are incredibly proud of the girls, not just for winning, but for the way they represented St James with confidence, humility and joy. Opportunities like this are so important in showing what girls in sport can achieve. A huge thank you to our staff for their fantastic support.”

Moira Marder, Chief Executive Officer of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

 “This is a brilliant example of what school sport should be, fun, inclusive, and empowering. Huge congratulations to St James for not only winning but setting a standard for how young people can shine both on and off the pitch.”