Hartpury pair called up to Wales U21 squad

HARTPURY College A-level students Nia Evans and Eleri Michael have been selected to play in a prestigious international netball tournament.

The duo have been named in the Wales squad for the Netball Europe Under-21 competition being staged at the University of Worcester on October 4 to 6.

Evans, a member of the Netball Academy at Hartpury, is studying A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and English Language, while former student Michael took A-levels in Business Studies, Economics and Physical Education.

Netball Academy Manager Holly Duerden said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Nia and Eleri have been selected.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for them both to showcase their talents against many other promising young netballers.

“I’m sure both girls are providing great inspiration to the current members of the Netball Academy at Hartpury and helping to drive them on to be the best they can be.

“As Nia is still only 17, she should feel particularly proud about receiving a call-up to the Wales Under-21 squad, which is a credit to the commitment and dedication she is showing at Hartpury alongside studying for her A-levels.

“We’re absolutely delighted that our fantastic relationship with Welsh Netball is blossoming – long may it continue.”

Wales begin their tournament against Scotland on Friday October 4, followed by matches against England on October 5 and Northern Ireland on October 6.

Wales Head of Performance Rachel Bayley added: “This is a very exciting squad featuring a great mixture of new and experienced age-group players and we can’t wait to see them out on court in Worcester in a few weeks’ time.”