We are very pleased to share that talented netballer, Emily Foster (Year 10), was named vice captain of Loughborough Lightning U15s at the National Academies Tournament, held at the end of August.

Emily was also recognised as the coaches’ player of the tournament by the Loughborough coaching team, which included England international, Nat Panagarry.

The Loughborough Academy forms part of England Netball’s performance pathway, which supports aspiring players in the East Midlands and beyond. The programme develops athletes with the potential to progress into senior domestic and international netball.

Emily successfully trialled for the Academy in January 2025, joining a long squad of 21 athletes. After months of training, the squad was reduced to 12 in July. This final group competed in the U15 National Franchise Academies Championship, hosted at the University of Wolverhampton over the August bank holiday weekend. The competition brought together the leading young players from across England, Wales and Scotland, observed by England Netball selectors.

Loughborough finished sixth overall, an impressive result for a squad who had only recently come together, with many of the players, including Emily, still competing as U14s.

BGS Head of Netball, Miss Huckle, who will again be representing Manchester Thunder this season, said: “Emily has shown great commitment to her development and it is wonderful to see her progress recognised at national level. She continues to be an excellent ambassador for netball at BGS and we are very proud of her achievements.”

We congratulate Emily on her outstanding achievements and look forward to following her continued progress.