Three of the Island’s best young hockey players, Louise Corkill, Lauren Finch and Steven Lowe, have been selected to represent the North West of England.

Isle of Man Hockey Performance Director Karl Moore says, "This is a fantastic result for the three players and is just reward for all the hard work that the players and their coaches have put in.

"Following our decision to adopt England Hockey’s Single System for Long Term Athlete Development, we launched an Isle of Man Junior Academy Centre in 2008.

He says the high quality coaching gives talented local youngsters the best chance of fulfilling their potential at club and international level.

Karl went on to say, "Following a lot of hard work over the winter months, it is great result for Manx hockey to see that we are able to prepare players to compete with the best in England."

"To give you an indication of how much commitment is required, each of the youngsters has had to attend six training and selection days at England Hockey’s Junior Regional Performance Centre in Manchester over the summer.

"We shouldn’t underestimate the dedication that's required both in terms of time and finance when trying to compete at the highest level."

Hockey’s Single System is described by Karl as the development pathway for players, coaches and officials of all ages and abilities.

It is based on a set of principles that puts the participant at the centre and on scientific research that has been widely accepted by the majority of other major sports within England.

Louise Corkill, a pupil at King William’s College who also plays for Bacchas, has been selected for the under-18 team.

Fellow KWC pupil Lauren Finch, a Ramsey Hockey Club player, has been picked for the under-16 team.

Steven Lowe of QEII and Valkyrs, will also represent the under-16s.