January 21, 2022 - 810 views
Another talented pupil looks set to add his name to the long list of international-calibre athletes that have emerged from a Colwyn Bay school, famous for its support and development of sport.
Rydal Penrhos pupil Alex Starling has received a major honour with selection to the Welsh U18 Hockey squad following a successful trial period.
Alex who is a Year 12 pupil at the school, received some outstanding news recently with a call-up to the Hockey Wales U18 National Age Grade squad, which represents a significant achievement one year above his required age bracket.
As part of his efforts to earn a place in the squad, Alex attended several training and selection camps with other hopefuls from across the country, which took place in Cardiff over a three-month period before coaches finalised their squad.
Alex thoroughly impressed coaches throughout the process and was highly deserving of his national recognition after making some substantial strides over the last two years despite the obvious challenges relating to progression due to COVID-19 restrictions.
In addition to developing his craft and conditioning during school hours with Rydal Penrhos’ dedicated staff team, Alex also gained valuable experience at the senior level with Eirias Hockey Club men’s first team this season, which has done wonders for his overall development.
Alex also attends Hockey Wales Regional Performance Centre training and will be looking to help Rydal Penrhos gain success on the national stage once again during the current academic year.
A spokesperson for the schoo said: "The dedication displayed by Alex during the lockdown periods was nothing short of extraordinary.
"The pupil kept himself in supreme physical condition in the face of unfamiliar inactivity and was even forced to miss the recent Sixth Form Christmas Ball due to his hockey commitments.
"This has been rewarded with a place in the Welsh national U18 squad and everyone at Rydal Penrhos is absolutely thrilled for Alex and everything he continues to accomplish in a sporting environment."
Director of Performance at Hockey Wales Kevin Johnson said: “After a very encouraging year of activity in 2021 for the National Age Group programme, all players and staff have been working extremely hard at the start of this cycle to arrive at this point, so many thanks to all involved.
“Congratulations to those who have been selected and thank you to all our players’ families, schools, and clubs for the incredible support they offer. I am looking forward to seeing how these programmes develop and continue the momentum gained from 2021 activity.”
