St George’s College student takes gold for GB in Sydney Youth Olympics

22nd January 2007

St George’s College student Abi Harper is celebrating after playing an integral role in the Great Britain U21 Girls’ Hockey Team victory in the 2007 Youth Olympics in Australia this weekend.

Abi, 17, who currently plays for Reading and St George’s College 1st Team, has already represented the national squad at U18-level, and has now scaled new sporting heights by being part of the gold-winning GB team beating Australia 4-2 in the final. The girls climbed to success by beating China, drawing with Australia and losing to New Zealand in the pool matches and qualifying for the gold medal match against Australia.

Abi’s brother Adam Harper was also at the tournament representing Great Britain as Captain in the U21 Boys’ Hockey Team. They also reached the finals but were narrowly beaten 11-10 by Australia in the last minute in what proved to be a nail biting encounter.

Commenting on her achievement, Abi said: “It has been the best experience of my life so far; even better than I could ever have imagined. Being presented with a gold medal for my country in front of such a big crowd was such an amazing feeling. I know I will never forget it.”

Tanya Cooke, Head of Girl’s Sport at St George’s College said: “I am astounded at Abi’s performance throughout the tournament; her ability is growing year-on-year and I am proud to be working with such a talent. Winning gold is a huge achievement for her and her team; I also know how much hard work and dedication it takes to be worthy of such a success.”