An incredibly exciting summer ahead for Louise in Year 12 who is off to Canada to represent Ireland at the U19 Lacrosse World Cup. Louise is extremely honoured and excited to be given this opportunity and has been busy fundraising with her team mates to cover the large financial obligation as they do not receive state funding. Donate here if you would like to support their fundraising efforts.
Here she blogs about her love of the sport and honour or representing her country.
"I was first introduced to lacrosse in my first PE lesson in Year 7. After watching my sister play it for years, I had been looking forward to playing the sport for myself, and this enthusiasm continued.
"After attending school practices, and getting the opportunity to play at National Schools in Year 8, lacrosse had become an important part of mine and my friends’ extra-curricular activities. With encouragement from the coaches at school, I joined the local club in Oxton. This led to more exciting lacrosse opportunities, such as representing Cheshire. A particular highlight was winning the Super-Counties tournament alongside many Queen’s girls, when we represented North West.
"After a number of trials over the past year, I now have the privilege to represent my country this summer. Next month I will be travelling to Canada with the u19 squad to represent Ireland in the World Championships. There are 23 countries competing, so I will have the opportunity to play teams from all corners of the globe. This is a huge honour and something I never thought would be possible. I have been particularly lucky to have the support of the PE department at Queen’s.
"Having the encouragement of Miss Lytollis, who has represented England on the international stage, inspires both myself and other players throughout school. Lacrosse at Queen’s is also continuing to grow positively in all age groups. Our Senior Lacrosse Team had a successful tournament at National School in Aldershot; we reached the semi-finals in Division 2 before a narrow defeat against North London Collegiate. Queen’s success also continues outside of school. Several girls are part of the England Regional Talent Pathway, with some even progressing through to the U19 National Academy. As lacrosse captain next year, our squad for the upcoming season looks promising. I’m looking forward to the continued development of lacrosse at Queen’s, and the success that will come with it."
Louise