Ballymena Academy netballers shine with Northern Ireland squad selections

(L-R): Faye Pearson, Katie Allen, Poppy Wilson

Three talented netball players from Ballymena Academy have earned prestigious representative honours with Netball Northern Ireland, marking a significant milestone in their sporting careers.

Katie Allen, Faye Pearson, and Poppy Wilson, all key members of Seven Towers Netball Club, have been recognised for their exceptional skills and dedication, securing places in national squads.

Their achievements highlight the strength of netball development in Northern Ireland and the vital role of school and club programmes in nurturing young talent.

Katie Allen: A Defensive Dynamo Aiming for European Glory

Katie Allen, a standout defender, has been reselected for the Northern Ireland U19 squad and is now preparing for the U19 European Championship selections in Edinburgh this December. Her rapid rise through the ranks is remarkable.

At just 14, Katie progressed from the U15s to the U17s, and by 15, she made her Northern Ireland U17 debut against the Isle of Man. Known for her speed and natural ability to read the game, Katie’s defensive prowess has made her a formidable force on the court.

Her leadership qualities shone through when she captained Ballymena Academy’s squad to victory in the Northern Ireland Shield.

Now, as part of the school’s Senior Squad, Katie is determined to add more silverware to the trophy cabinet this season. Her journey reflects not only talent but also a relentless commitment to improvement, balancing intensive training with competitive matches.

Faye Pearson: A Dynamic Leader on the Court

Faye Pearson has secured her place in the Northern Ireland U17 squad, a testament to her progression through the U13 and U15 Regional Academies and the U17 National Academy.

A dynamic and authoritative player, Faye’s speed and strength in the air make her a standout in through-court play. Her vision and leadership were evident last season when she captained Ballymena Academy’s Intermediate squad to Northern Ireland Shield success.

Faye’s ability to control the game and inspire her teammates has earned her widespread respect. Her selection for the U17 squad underscores her potential to make a significant impact on the national stage, and she continues to be a driving force for both her school and Seven Towers Netball Club.

Poppy Wilson: A Composed and Versatile Shooter

Poppy Wilson completes the trio, earning a well-deserved spot in the U17 National Academy after progressing through the U13 and U15 Regional Academies.

A composed and intelligent circle player, Poppy’s natural shooting ability and spatial awareness make her a vital asset. Her classy style and no-nonsense approach allow her to excel in any shooting combination, bringing versatility to her team.

Poppy was also part of Ballymena Academy’s Intermediate squad that clinched the Northern Ireland Shield last season. With her sights set on another successful campaign, Poppy’s dedication and skill continue to elevate her game, positioning her as a rising star in Northern Ireland netball.

A Pathway to Success

The success of Katie, Faye, and Poppy is no accident. Their achievements are the result of years of hard work, training multiple times a week, competing in regular matches, and attending intensive international training camps every fortnight.

Their progression through the Netball Northern Ireland Pathway—from regional academies to national squads—demonstrates the effectiveness of structured talent development programmes.

“All three of these players have come through the Netball Northern Ireland Pathway,” said their coach, Julie-Anne Cairns.

“Their hard work, perseverance, and passion for the game are an inspiration to younger players in both Ballymena Academy and Seven Towers Netball Club.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

The trio’s accomplishments are a source of pride for Ballymena Academy and Seven Towers Netball Club, where they serve as role models for younger players.

Their success underscores the importance of dedication, teamwork, and a positive attitude in achieving sporting excellence.

As they continue to compete at the highest levels, Katie, Faye, and Poppy are paving the way for the next generation of netballers in Northern Ireland.

With the U19 European Championship selections on the horizon and national squad duties ahead, these young athletes are poised to make their mark. Their journey is a testament to the thriving netball community in Northern Ireland and the bright future of the sport.