Netballers Represent College at Commonwealth Youth Games

As the Commonwealth Youth Games launch in Trinidad and Tobago this Friday (4 August), three College DiSE learners are heading to the tournament as part of the England netball squad.

Sophie Egbaran, Emily Pawlett, and Ella Williams, all currently studying with Loughborough College on Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programmes, have been selected for the squad. They’re looking forward to their first pool game against South Africa, which takes place at Shaw Park Cultural Complex in Tobago, on Tuesday 8 August.

We spoke to Sophie and Ella about the importance of the DiSE programme at Loughborough College, and how their course is setting them up for future success.

“The DiSE course has been extremely helpful in my journey so far,” says Ella. “I’ve gained a wider knowledge for the areas that support my netball journey. We have access to a psychologist, as well as a nutritionist, who have both helped me improve my off-court lifestyle, which has in turn improved my performance on the court.”

Reflecting on the transferable skills offered as part of the DiSE programme, Sophie added, “We’ve also been taught some really valuable lessons around managing finance and lifestyle choices that can affect your performance.

“One thing I’ve really valued about being on site in Loughborough is the chance to engage with my peers and incorporate the leadership skills we’ve been taught into real-life situations.”

Ella, who has been playing netball for around ten years, started her journey at home in Dorset, and credits the DiSE programme for her continued development. Looking ahead, she has big plans for her future career, “In five years’ time, I’d like to be in the England futures squad, and play in the Vitality Super league for a franchise team. I have truly valued the connections I have with other athletes and none of it would be possible without undertaking the DiSE course.”

Sophie reflected, “I really have grown as an athlete on our course. I’ve built a better relationship with coaches and teammates, and I feel more confident.”

Looking back on their successes, and flourishing positions in netball, both Ella and Sophie encourage aspiring players to consider the DiSE programme. Sophie says, “Work hard from the start, don’t let anything build up.”

Ella shared, “Take every opportunity you can to try and improve yourself. There are so many opportunities, but you will have to look for them yourself, they don’t just come to you.”

We can’t wait to see how the tournament unfolds, and are wishing Sophie, Emily, Ella, and all of Netball England good luck!

Image Credit – Morgan Harlow