Emily thrilled to Brits after her call-up by GB
N-ICE ONE FOR WHITLEY BAY TEEN GIBSON
AN up-and-coming ice hockey player from Whitley Bay will take to the ice this month after her call-up to Team GB (writes Sam Blacklock).
Eighteen-year-old Emily Johnson, who recently left Whitley Bay High School, has been named in the 20-strong squad for the Four Nations Women’s tournament in Grenada.
The defence man is delighted with the call up, saying: “It’s an amazing feeling to get the call-up from GB.
“It’s surreal, to be chosen to do the sport that you love and play internationally.
“It’s exciting and makes all the hard work, late-night training, playing for Kingston ladies and trips to Sheffield and back in the early hours of the morning worth it.
“Although I am lucky as I live in Whitley Bay I travel most weekends as I play for numerous teams, and the extra ice time helps your game and fitness levels.”
Team GB will come up against Hungary in the opening fixture before a game with Poland and rounding the tournament off with a tie against the hosts on Sunday.
The 18-year-old, who got into ice hockey when she was nine, added: “My little sister had a skating party and there was a lady in the rink called Jo Newton who asked if me and my sisters would like to come along on a Saturday to learn to play ice hockey.
“We did, and also joined the rookies club on a Friday at Whitley Bay ice rink. I’ve been playing ever since.”
The youngster has had a range of success throughout her career, which has seen her selected for England junior girls in Finland, in addition to travelling with Team GB ladies to Slovakia and with Team GB under-18s trip to Hungary.
“I just love the sport. My dad and one of my sisters play so we’re a hockey family.”
“I would love ice hockey to be more recognised in the UK as there are thousands of young people that play.
“I would also hope to inspire other girls out there to follow their dream, even if it isn’t what your friends do.
“I’m the only girl on my team at Whitley Bay but it’s like one big family.
The teenager hopes her ice hockey career keeps on progressing. “My plans for the future are to continue to play,” she said
“I don’t think I will ever quit. I would love to be part of a GB squad that would be good enough to make the Olympics.
“It would be amazing. But if not I will just continue to give it my all and play.”