Smith in Olympics selection thoughts

Jade Smith: Olympic hopeful

WATER POLO:


IT will be party time for one Failsworth household if Jade Smith is selected for Great Britain’s Olympic water polo team.

But until then, the 19-year-old sportswoman’s feet are firmly on the ground.

Goalkeeper Jade is being considered for the 13-strong Olympic squad despite being one of the youngest candidates.

The former Failsworth School pupil has made a big impression since her first training session in 2008, and it poised for the list’s publication on Sunday.

Proud mum Debbie said: “It would be absolutely tremendous if Jade was part of the Olympics. But we aren’t thinking about it too much. If it does happen we’ll have to hold an Olympics party — but whatever the outcome, we are extremely proud of her.”

City of Manchester player Jade caught the selectors’ eye in a Test match in Israel last year, and now practices with the GB hoipefuls rather than her club.

Even if she isn’t one of the lucky 13, she could still make one of the two reserve places.

Water polo runs in the family — sister Casey will join her older sibling in the GB junior squad for a trip to Russia in September.

Royton’s Joe O’Regan (20) is also waiting for Sunday’s announcement with bated breath, having made a splash for GB over the last couple of years.




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