Wrekin College Celebrates Four Netball Achievements in U19 Scene

Wrekin College in Shropshire has achieved remarkable success in netball with four of its students earning prestigious roles in national squads. This announcement follows the school’s U19 team securing yet another county title, marking a decade without defeat in U19 county finals. The achievements highlight the school’s commitment to developing talent in the sport.

Among the selected students, current pupil Millie Jacklin-Chatha has been named to the England Roses U19 Academy Squad. Alongside her, former students Halee Robinson and Josie Pointon have also garnered significant recognition. Halee, a former England U19 player, has been selected for the London Pulse NexGen squad, while Josie has taken on the role of Head Coach for the England Roses Academy Squad. Additionally, Caitlin Tandy, a member of the Upper Sixth, has been included in the Republic of Ireland squad.

Caroline Ritchie-Morgan, the Director of Netball at Wrekin College, expressed her pride in the accomplishments of these young women. “All of this success is so well-deserved, and I couldn’t be happier for Millie, Halee, Caitlin, and Josie,” she stated. Ritchie-Morgan, also a selector for the England Roses, noted that these players have been integral to the school’s netball program and have significantly contributed to its success.

Wrekin College has established itself as a nurturing ground for excellence in netball. Ritchie-Morgan, who has previously won the Netball Teacher of the Year Award and has coached the Welsh U19 team, emphasized the positive trajectory of women’s sports, including netball, over the past decade. “The game of netball has seen a real resurgence… inspiring the next generation,” she added.

Millie Jacklin-Chatha reflected on her journey at Wrekin, acknowledging the support she has received. “Wrekin has supported me both on and off the court, helping me achieve my goals of becoming an NXT GEN player for Nottingham Forest and an England Roses Academy athlete,” she remarked. Millie expressed her ambitions to represent England in the future, attributing her development to the exceptional coaching and opportunities available at Wrekin.

Halee Robinson, who joined Wrekin in the sixth form, shared her experience during a challenging time. “Reflecting on my sixth form experience at Wrekin College, it was a journey that taught me two key skills, adaptability and confidence,” she stated. Halee navigated the complexities of lockdown while preparing for A-levels and university applications, achieving the grades necessary to pursue Physiotherapy at a competitive institution in the UK.

Robinson praised Wrekin for fostering resilience and self-confidence. She stated, “Wrekin’s brave attitude to adversity embedded in me a resilience which allows me to see challenges as something to conquer, not fear.” Her leadership roles, including captaining the Wrekin Netball first team, have played a significant part in her personal development.

The success of netball at Wrekin College continues, attracting some of the best young talents in the sport. The school serves as a player development pathway for the Birmingham Panthers. In addition, Wrekin looks forward to welcoming Josie Pointon back to the school to engage with aspiring players, many of whom are already on pathways to national performance squads.

Wrekin College’s achievements in netball not only underscore the dedication of its students but also highlight the vital role of supportive coaching and a strong sports program in nurturing future talent. As these young athletes step into their new roles, they carry with them the values and experiences gained during their time at Wrekin.