In her third year at these games and as one of the longest serving athletes on Ian Walkers Under 16 girls squad Sorcha Maguire was identified as one of the top six players at the Sainsbury’s UK School Games and received a golden ball with five others at the closing ceremony. Throughout the tournament Sorcha has been provided an amazing attack statistic in every game. Sorcha says “I am very honoured to be named as one of the top six young players in the UK”. When the organisers announced Sorchas name her team, being so happy for her placement embraced her in their excitement. Sorcha is the first girl in Northern Ireland to ever receive a golden ball award placing her as one of the UK’s finest young volleyballers.

Her Coach Dr Ian Walker said “I could not be more proud of her achievements and developments over the past three years, she has an amazing ability for attacking on the outside and her attitude to the game is exceptional. She was our ‘go-to’ player throughout this tournament and many of the other coaches were amazed with her and ultimately gave her the vote that lead to the award.” The girls had arguably their best ever UKSG tournament taking England South to a deciding set and only losing by three points to clinch a semi-final spot.