Manx Netball Association yesterday announced the under-17 squad for the forthcoming European Challenge Tournament in Gibraltar.

Coaches, Emma Williams and Claire Battye, have had some tough decisions to make but believe they have selected a competitive 14 from the under-17 national squad.

Ultimately 12 will travel to Gibraltar in March, with two named as non-travelling reserves.

Assistant coach Battye said: ’It is a very exciting time for Manx netball. The standard of play in the island is improving all the time thanks to participation in tournaments of this level.

’We have a very promising squad and expect good results. The experience gained increases the level of performance each time we get the opportunity to take to the international stage.’

The squad (left to right, back row) is: Tegan Horrox (non-travelling reserve), Olivia Jacklin-Chatha, Ella Webster, Rose Turner, Annabel Kneale, Megan Hunter (non-travelling reserve).

(Front row) Emma Leith, Eliana Kneen, Holly Burgess, Rebecca Cooke, Gabrielle Divall, Jemima Shepherd, Gwen Williams. (Not pictured) Cassidy Pizzey.

l Full weekly netball round-up in this Thursday’s Manx Independent.