Gold medallist inspires girls

AN inspiration . . . Nicola with Abigail Starmer and Laura Maddock, both 12

THE NEXT generation of hockey stars at Failsworth School enjoyed an inspirational visit from Oldham Olympic star Nicola White.

A total of 50 girls from across all year groups took part in a mini training session with Nicola, who won gold in hockey at this year's Rio Olympics.

The students also listened to a presentation from the sporting star, took part in a question and answer session and were able to hold her gold medal.

Rachel Brodrick, head of PE, said: "Nicola's visit was a way of engaging with our female students and motivating them to achieve.

"The girls loved it, they were so excited to meet Nicola and asked lots of good questions such as who were her role models when she was growing up and what type of training programme does she follow.

"Nicola shared her Olympic mentality with the girls and explained how she set herself targets in the run up to the Olympics that got progressively more difficult - something that our girls can use as they study for their GCSEs.

"She also explained how it took her three attempts to get selected for the England team, which showed our students the resilience, determination and commitment you need to succeed."

Rachel, a self confessed hockey geek, added: "I actually used to play against Nicola so it was great to meet her again."