Loughborough High School is celebrating the success of two Sixth Form students who have been identified for England Hockey’s prestigious 2025–26 England Age Group (EAG) Programme.
Year 13 pupil Elena Fraser and Year 12 pupil Sophie Perez, both members of the England Hockey Talent Academy at Beeston Hockey Club, were shortlisted to trial for the England U18 Girls Squad. Elena’s place has now been confirmed, while Sophie remains under final assessment following a strong performance throughout the earlier stages of the trials.
Across the 2025–26 cycle, selected players will gain valuable international exposure through high-level fixtures and tournaments, alongside specialist education in sports performance, strength and conditioning, and elite athlete development.
Reacting to the news, Elena said: “When I found out I’d been selected for the England U18 squad, I was incredibly exited and proud. It’s a real honour and something I’ve worked towards for a long time. I’m hugely grateful for all the support people have shown me, from coaches and teammates to friends and family. I couldn’t have reached this point without them, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Sophie added: “I’m really excited for this opportunity to continue to prove and challenge myself. It’s always been a dream of mine to achieve this goal. I’m very grateful to all my coaches, teammates, friends and family for their support so far.”
Both pupils also train within Loughborough Schools Foundation’s Hockey Player Pathway, a donor-funded programme designed to support talented young athletes through tailored strength and conditioning, technical coaching, workshops, and performance support sessions, preparing them for the demands of elite-level sport.
Dr Miles, Head of Loughborough High School, shares her pride on the girls’ achievement: “We are immensely proud of Elena and Sophie for reaching this stage in the England Hockey pathway. Their commitment, determination and love for the sport shine through, and it is wonderful to see their hard work recognised at such a high level.
“At Loughborough High School, we are committed to nurturing ambition in all its forms, and it is a privilege to support pupils as they pursue opportunities like this through Loughborough Schools Foundation’s Hockey Player Pathway and wider sports provision.
“Elena and Sophie are fantastic role models for younger aspiring players, and I look forward to seeing them continue to thrive on their sporting journey with England Hockey.”
The girls now look ahead to the next stage of the England Age Group Programme and its upcoming international fixtures.
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