While most Year 11s were settling into the spring term, Hettie was facing a selection camp like no other. Competing against 34 of the most talented young players in the country, the goal was to secure one of just 12 jerseys for the 2026 European Netball U17 Championships in Aberdeen.

“I was really excited for the opportunity and I really wasn’t expecting it,” Hettie admits. “There were so many good players there so I was really shocked when the selection was announced.”

The tournament proved to be a masterclass from the Young Roses, who secured a clean sweep of victories against the Republic of Ireland, UAE, Northern Ireland, and finally, a 77-35 win over hosts Scotland. Hettie noted that the intensity of the international stage was a significant step up: “The game is faster and therefore you have to think quicker. Mistakes get punished and often result in the opposition turning the ball to goal.”

One of the standout moments of the tournament came during the final match against Scotland. While Hettie wasn’t the designated tournament captain, she was called upon in the closing stages. “The captain and vice-captain came off court in the second half and I was handed the captain badge,” she explains. Leading the team through those closing minutes, Hettie helped navigate the final whistle that saw England crowned European Netball U17 Champions.

Despite the gold medal and the international spotlight, Hettie remains incredibly connected to her roots at Wakefield Girls’. When asked about her favourite memory of the year, she points to the Sisters N Sport finals with her school teammates: “I think my favourite (memory of the year) was the SNS finals as the standard of play was exceptional and our team made it very funny and enjoyable.”

Balancing GCSE-year studies with international sport is no small feat, but Hettie is quick to praise the support from her teachers. “It is really hard! School have been really supportive in helping me with the lessons I have missed and given me the space and time to catch up where I need it.”

As for the future? “I would love to get chosen for the Roses U17 squad again next season,” she says. “I need to take it all in, enjoy it for what it is and keep working hard.”

For the younger students currently starting their own journey at WGHS, her message is simple: “Have fun! Just give it a go and enjoy all the opportunities you get.”