A CHESTER student has an exciting summer ahead representing her country in the Lacrosse World Cup in Canada.
Louise Kiely, in Year 12 student at The Queen’s School, will represent Ireland in the U19 team in August.
Louise says she is extremely honoured and excited to be given the opportunity and has been busy fundraising with her team mates to cover the large financial obligation as they do not receive state funding.
Louise with her Queen’s School team mates selected for the Cheshire Squad
Louise said: "After a number of trials over the past year, I now have the privilege to represent my country this summer. Next month I will be travelling to Canada with the U19 squad to represent Ireland in the World Championships. There are 23 countries competing, so I will have the opportunity to play teams from all corners of the globe.
"This is a huge honour and something I never thought would be possible.
"I have been particularly lucky to have the support of the PE department at Queen’s.
"Having the encouragement of Miss Lytollis at Queen’s, who has represented England on the international stage, inspires both myself and other players throughout school. Lacrosse at Queen’s is also continuing to grow positively in all age groups.”
Louise with the Queen’s Senior Team at the U19s National Schools Championships
Louise started playing lacrosse in her first PE lesson in Year 7 and has never looked back. She worked hard in school practice and has played at a number of National Schools competitions. Following the encouragement of her school coaches she joined Oxton Lacrosse Club and that led to many more exciting lacrosse opportunities, including representing Cheshire.
Louise added: “A particular highlight was winning the Super-Counties tournament alongside many Queen’s girls, when we represented the North West. Our school Senior Lacrosse Team had a successful tournament at National School in Aldershot; we reached the semi-finals in Division 2 before a narrow defeat against North London Collegiate. Queen’s success also continues outside of school. Several girls are part of the England Regional Talent Pathway, with some even progressing through to the U19 National Academy. As lacrosse captain next year, our squad for the upcoming season looks promising. I’m looking forward to the continued development of lacrosse at Queen’s, and the success that will come with it."
You can donate to support Louise and her team with their fundraising via their gofundme page:
https://www.gofundme.com/ireland-lacrosse-u19-world-cup
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