We are incredibly proud to see our pupils flourishing in their chosen sports both in and outside of school. One such pupil is Charlotte, whose dedication and talent have earned her a place in the London Pulse Netball Power Pathway. From her first introduction to the game at Freemen’s to her development within the London Pulse Netball Power Pathway, Charlotte shares her insights, challenges and ambitions:

What was your reaction when you found out you secured a place in the London Netball Power Pathway?

Absolutely ecstatic – after the joining the pathway in 2024, I’ve seen so much progress in my game play.

For people who may not know much about it, can you explain what the London Pulse Power Pathway involves and what opportunities it gives young players?

The U19 Player Development Programme (PDP) is part of the London Pulse Pathway which aims to develop netball players to become part of the main academy squad. Plenty of opportunities are provided within the PDP such as recent fixtures against Nottingham Forest PDP, and the U19 Pulse Power Academy squad.

What do you enjoy most about playing netball, and what first inspired you to get involved in the sport?

Playing netball at school was what first got me into the sport, and it was only in Year 9 that I joined the local team Ashtead All Stars which is where I properly fell in love with the sport. I absolutely adore the team aspect of the game with a shared goal of success; I’ve made lifelong friendships from the sport.

How has your experience of netball at Freemen’s helped you develop as a player?

Freemen’s taught me all the basics of the game, and built on them, throughout my school life and provided me the entrance into the County programme, starting my progression through the netball circuit. Additionally, being Vice Captain of Netball last year has grown my confidence as a player massively, with the opportunity for leadership has been incredibly beneficial in and outside of the game.

Are there any coaches, teammates, or teachers at school who have particularly supported or inspired you along the way?

Every single person within my netball journey has been so incredibly supportive along the way. Particularly, Mrs Marchant and Mrs Bennet have been so supportive of me from the very beginning of my school career, always providing support and guidance and being genuinely interested in my wellbeing and netball in and out of school.

Netball is such a team-focused sport – what do you think makes a strong and successful team?

A strong and successful team is made through the foundations. Laying out the shared goals and aims of a team minimises any conflict, allowing the team to grow together. Also, knowing your team on a personal level creates a powerful team bond and structure which is incredibly important for success.

How do you balance the demands of training, matches, and schoolwork while still performing at a high level?

Balancing training, matches, and schoolwork has always been a priority of mine meaning sometimes I have to sacrifice social events or complete schoolwork during car journeys and break times. It’s taken some time to completely get the balance, with some struggles along the way, but people have been so supportive with helping to gain a balance between school and sport.

Looking ahead, what are your future aspirations in netball, and what would you love to achieve in the sport over the next few years?

I’d love to remain in the netball circuit obviously, hopefully the Academy team is in sight for next season, however, wherever my journey goes, I know that it will be the next best step for me in my netball progression.