A Journey to Success
The RGS Worcester Netball philosophy is that all players are provided with opportunities to fulfil their potential, whether at a recreational or performance level. It is, therefore, a pleasure to share the story of Upper Sixth student Izzy Thompson and her Netball journey through The RGS Worcester Family of Schools to be the current Focus Sport Captain for Netball and School Captain:
“Coming from a Sporting family, I had exposure to Sport from a very young age. My Netball journey started at six years old when I joined RGS The Grange. The first few Netball sessions I participated in were just to have some fun and see whether I would enjoy the Sport. Little did I know that those sessions are what made me fall in love with the Sport! After a few sessions at RGS The Grange, my mum encouraged me to join a local Netball club to further progress my basic skills. Playing at club level from age six to fourteen I was always promoted 2-3 age groups which really helped me become an experienced, mature and knowledgeable player for my age group. After playing at two clubs for the first few years, I was successful in trialling for the U12 Worcestershire County Netball Team. I spent two years as a part of the County programme where I got the opportunity to also be part of the U14 Team.
In Year Eight, I attended the U17 Severn Stars Nova Academy trials. With only three spaces available for this team, I was not expecting to be selected, especially as I was the youngest there. Fortunately, I was one of the three chosen that year, and I was then part of this squad from 2018-2022. During my time as a Nova Athlete, I had the opportunity to play against other Severn Stars Nova teams, Captain the U15 School Games team in 2021 and play in multiple tournaments. Following the U15 School Games Tournament I was invited to attend U17 Severn Stars National Performance League Squad trials.
Unfortunately, I was unable to take part due to undergoing major surgery. I was told that there was a high chance I had Stage 2 Thyroid Cancer but, thankfully, it was benign, and I recovered fully. This was a highly emotional experience for me which took place during my GCSE year and at a time when I was competing at a very high level with my Netball. My Netball temporarily suffered during my convalescence. However, when challenged with adversity, my resilience, dedication and extra support from coaches, teachers, family and friends was what helped me return back to full playing only four months after major surgery.
During this time I was very appreciative of Severn Stars for offering me a place into the U17 NPL Squad for that season, it gave me the confidence and extra push to return to playing. Last year following successful trials I was a member of the Severn Stars U19 NPL Squad and had the opportunity to play at the NPL Tournament in July. This season I felt I needed a new challenge and have recently been successful at the U19 Central Warriors National Performance League Squad trials. I am looking forward to working with new coaches and continuing to build on my technical skills and experience as a player.
Year Eleven was my first experience of 1st VII School Netball. I was the youngest in the team, but I felt comfortable and supported by my peers. Time flew by and Superball 2022 was on the horizon! This had been my goal ever since RGS The Grange, to be part of the team but most of all be in the starting VII was truly a special feeling and an honour. Although we unfortunately lost by one goal it was an unforgettable experience.
The most special memory in my Netball journey is certainly Superball 2023. As Vice-captain and to be part of the winning team was something I will never forget. As Captain this year I am hoping to fulfil my childhood dream of lifting the Superball Trophy one last time.
My Netball journey hasn’t been the easiest, being faced with multiple injuries and trying to balance extensive training schedules with academic studies I really have had to be resilient and determined. I hope that my story inspires others to never give up, believe in yourself and enjoy every experience.”
