Despite the heatwave warnings across the country, a pleasant breeze kept the conditions comfortable at Mansfield Petanque Club on Saturday, 12th July, where Petanque England’s Junior Coaching session went ahead with energy and enthusiasm. Though several juniors were unable to attend due to concerns about the heat, seven dedicated young players arrived eager to learn and take part.
With a strong team of experienced coaches in attendance, the day focused on a wide variety of technical skills designed to challenge and inspire the juniors. The morning session included intensive work on squat pointing, using a range of landing spot strategies, and the often-overlooked technique of jack throwing – exploring how its placement can influence the rest of the end.
Juniors also got hands-on with the popular high lob, experimented with boule-to-boule shooting, and practiced promoting a boule while remaining in the head – a skill that calls for both precision and control. Perhaps most impressively, the group tackled spinning a boule around an obstacle – a technique that even seasoned adult players struggle to master.
“All the juniors listened incredibly well and responded positively to the coaching,” said Claire Geddes, Junior Lead for Petanque England. “It’s always inspiring to see how much they’re willing to learn and try new things.
After a short break for lunch, the group transitioned into Adult/Junior games. These matches gave coaches the chance to guide players in live match settings – helping them apply their newly learned skills, while also discussing game tactics and pitch awareness. Crucially, juniors were encouraged to take the lead in team discussions, allowing them to grow in confidence and learn the value of making their own strategic decisions.
“A very impactful day of coaching,” said John Edmonson, Junior Head Coach. “The effort, concentration, and attitude shown by every junior today was something to be proud of.”
Special thanks go to Mansfield Petanque Club for hosting and supporting the session so well, to the parents and carers for their ongoing encouragement, and to the coaching team for generously giving their time and sharing their knowledge.
As always, the juniors did everyone proud with their commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to take advice on board.
A full report of the Competition can be found here.
if you have any junior stories from your club please let us know as we want to celebrate with them. Send all stories and any photos to Claire Geddes at juniors@petanque-england.uk
For those keen to stay updated on junior petanque activities, be sure to follow @PEJuniors on Facebook. Additionally, for information on upcoming events, visit the juniors webpage at Juniors (petanque-england.uk).