Moreton Hall Sixth Form student Maddie Kennedy is celebrating having been selected for the U19 England Lacrosse National Academy.
The England Lacrosse National Academy recognises the most promising talent at regional level and invites athletes to form the National Academy, which offers a direct route into the England National Team setup, with players from the National Academy forming the England Under 19 National Squad.
The England U19 Team are currently fourth in the world after competing in the 2019 U19 World Championships, Canada.
Maddie who is currently Vice Captain for Moreton Hall’s 1st team Lacrosse said, “Being selected for the U19 England Lacrosse National Academy has been something I have wished to achieve from a very young age and have been working towards for many years.
“I was extremely nervous prior to the trial, but the adrenaline kicked in and I soon felt very confident. The trial took place over a weekend in Nottingham during which we focused on defensive work. It was really useful to hear new ways and ideas of defending which will help develop my play in the future.
“The weekend was very tiring but I learnt lots and I am very excited to continue training with these coaches for the following years.”
Hollie Harrington, Head of Lacrosse Coaching at Moreton Hall commented, “This is a fantastic achievement for Maddie. Since her trial we’ve been keeping everything crossed for her. Maddie is an extremely focused and dedicated player and I am so pleased for her that national coaches have recognised how talented she is.
Hollie continued, “As a school, this means we now have 4 players in the U19 England National Academy, the highest number of players we have ever had, and for such a small school this is fantastic.”
