Jessica Dale, the eldest daughter of Southport RFC Director of Rugby Mike and Head of Catering Louise, is celebrating an England call up and title success. Jessica who is in Year 10 at Greenbank High School plays goal keeper for Oldham Netball Club (National Champions) has been selected for the England under 17s – despite being only 15. Jess has this week attended a two day camp at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.

Jessica was part of the Oldham under 15s squad that was recently crowned Greater Manchester Champions after defeating their local rivals Tameside 47 -31, and last year won the National U 14 Club Championships held at Bath University. She is currently representing Oldham U15, Manchester Thunder (formerly Northern Thunder) U19 in the National Talent League, Greater Manchester, and the North West regional netball academy.

Mike said "Jess has worked extremely hard over the last few years and has had fantastic support from her coaches, family and friends. We as a family would also like to express a big thank you to the Benjamin Gautrey foundation for their support with Jessica over the last six months.”

She proudly follows a family netball tradition with Louise a Southport Netball Club 1st team player, 10 year old sister Amy playing for Oldham U11, and cousin Jenna Louise Astwood who represented England. Jess said” I know I'm not there yet, but this experience has showed me that if you dedicate yourself to something, and want it enough, it will soon come within your reach.” Her aim is to play for the England Open Squad in future years.

Jessica has given her time freely to coach youngsters at Birkdale Primary School and regularly helps the rugby club by selling raffle tickets or whatever, and everyone at SRFC is thrilled at her success.