International Dream Coming True For Former Pupil Holly

Former pupil Holly Payne left Bablake in 2009 to study Biology at the University of Birmingham. Holly’s studies, however, were always second in line to her dream of becoming an international hockey player.

From the age of 12, Holly was selected for the county hockey team, where she developed and excelled. Shortly afterwards, her skills were recognised by the regional development officers, which led to her forming part of the Midlands Hockey team.  

At the age of 15, Holly began moving through the ranks playing for England U16, U18, U21 and finally the senior team. Whilst playing internationally, she also completed her degree in Biology and a Master's in Toxicology, in addition to playing for Birmingham University 1st XI. We were also always indebted to her for bringing her university 1st XI back to Bablake to test the mettle of our Senior teams.

Finally in 2015, at the age of 23, Holly's hard work and persistency have been recognised with selection for the Great Britain women’s hockey team. She will obtain her first full international cap in February this year when she will be travelling to Valencia, and she also remains hopeful for the Olympics in Rio in 2016! 

Asked about her early grounding in hockey, Holly stated: 'Bablake gave me the passion for the game and taught me how to be hardworking and resilient. I cannot thank the school and the PE staff enough for the opportunities they gave me, as well as all the support and scholarship funding throughout my years as a pupil.'

We wish Holly all the very best for her debut for Team GB and look forward to reporting further on her successes.

With immense thanks to Miss Jade Payne (Girls' PE) for the information.