We are hoping for some very specific and recent insights into Sherborne School's admissions process, as we are exploring a somewhat unusual application path for our eldest son, DS1, aiming for a y11 day place. He is a truly dedicated rugby and hockey player, and we believe the school's exceptional sports environment is exactly where he would thrive, which is the main reason for considering the move from his current school; we are prepared to pay the full fees and are not applying for a bursary. While he is hardworking, academically he is average, predicted mostly 6s and 7s at GCSE, so he isn't aiming for Academic Scholar status, which leads us to question how competitive this route is. We would specifically love to know, from those with experience, how competitive the few places that become available for Year 11 actually are, particularly as Day places are much rarer than boarding spots. We are wondering if his significant sporting ability carries enough weight in the admissions process when his academics are just 'good enough'. Finally, the commitment to the school is high, as our younger son, DS2, will also be starting as a Day Boy in Year 9 around the same time, and we are curious if the school views this family commitment as a strong positive factor in DS1's application for a late, non-standard Day place. We are trying to be completely realistic about our chances given his academic profile isn't top tier and the difficult entry point, and any advice on the Year 11 assessment process would be hugely appreciated.