The North of England under-18 girls’ Regional Squad has been selected for 2022/23, with new manager Siân Oakley working alongside coach JJ Vallely.
The six girls in the new squad are – Morgan Bailey (South Moor), Amy Burton (Wynyard), Antonia Emmerson (Ponteland), Millie Hixon (Wearside), Charlotte Naughton (Ponteland) and Rebecca Wildey (Eden).
Former Northumberland county captain Siân, who has replaced Bryan Ross as manager, said: “Taking on the role following the incredible success the girls have had in recent years is daunting and exciting in equal measure. My role is all about organising what the girls are doing and supporting them, their parents, and JJ.”
A rock climber who competed for Great Britain as well as an A Level psychology teacher and magistrate, Siân is hoping to bring together her wealth of sporting and teaching experience to help the girls.
“I’ve got a background in sport and teaching, and I hope some of it will be really helpful to the girls as they look to take their own sport to an elite level. Ultimately, they’ll shape what I’ll be doing. I can’t wait to see how they build on the success of all the girls who’ve gone through this process before them.”
The girls will take part in 24 days of coaching, with two-day camps taking place at Matfen Hall. They will also receive individual coaching with JJ as well as off-course support and classroom-based sessions.
