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St Gabriel’s

St Gabriel’s

Year 7 Mya Selected for Prestigious Football Development Squad

St Gabriel’s School is delighted to announce that Mya Panchal, a talented Year 7 pupil aged 12, has been selected for the prestigious Prep School Lions Development Squad following trials at Wellington College on Saturday, 6th October 2024.

The Prep School Lions team is made up of the most talented Independent School footballers across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey. The Development Squad specifically identifies young players who demonstrate exceptional skill, dedication, and potential. This impressive achievement has earned Mya a place in the team and an exciting opportunity to participate in the 2025 Gothia World Youth Cup, held in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The Gothia Cup is the world’s largest youth football tournament, attracting nearly 2,000 teams from over 80 nations each year. Representing her region and school at such a globally renowned event is a fantastic milestone for Mya and highlights her hard work and passion for football.

As part of the squad, Mya will also attend a pre-tournament training camp over the Easter holidays. This camp will offer the players a unique insight into life as a professional footballer, working with top UEFA and FA coaches. The camp will provide enhance both their footballing abilities and life skills, preparing them for the Gothia Cup while focusing on their physical, mental, social, and technical development.

“We are incredibly proud of Mya for her selection to the Prep School Lions Development Squad,” said Mr Ricki Smith, Principal at St Gabriel’s. “This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to Mya’s talent, determination, and love for the sport. We look forward to seeing her continue to grow and succeed as part of this elite group of young athletes.”