Work pays off with selection for international swimming contest

A Perthshire pupil has been selected to compete for Team Scotland’s Youth Development Squad in the Dave McCullagh International swimming contest.

Elise Cosens, 14, of Strathallan School, will represent the nation next month in Bangor, Northern Ireland.

The third-form pupil said is over the moon to have been selected for the team.

She said: “Less than five months ago I was training mainly on my own but now I’m part of a team preparing to swim international for Scotland.

“I can’t believe it.

“I’m so excited for the meet in Northern Ireland next month. It will be my first swim competition outside of Scotland.”

Elise has made a significant impact at the school since she joined in September on a swimming scholarship.

Since starting at Strathallan she has broken a number of significant personal records.

Her swimming coach, Elaine Johnston, said she is thrilled by Elise’s success.

She said: “Elise’s progress has been exiting to watch. She came to us not that long ago as a sprinter but her determination and hard work ethic has meant she is now equally holding her own at longer distances.

“The Youth Development Squad is a fantastic introduction to international swimming.

“In fact it was the same squad that former pupil and current Olympian Duncan Scott was first selected for.

“We are thrilled to see Elise get the national recognition she has worked so hard for.”

Elise’s international debut will run from February 20 until 23.

Picture: Dominic Glasgow. Elise Cosens will swim for Scotland.