England squad calls up college martial arts student

A MARTIAL arts student is on a karate high after being selected by her country.

Nortallerton College student Rebecca Boakes is training with the England squad in the Wado Kai class.

She will compete in the European Championships in November, which are due to be held in Reading.

A member of the Mujushin Karate Association, which meets at Hambleton Leisure Centre, she trains between eight and 20 hours a week in the fighting discipline of Kumite.

She has trained for the past six months with the England development squad in Leicester and has just been informed that she is part of the England team, as is her coach Andrew Young, of Middlesbrough.

“I am so excited,” the 15-year-old said. “I can’t wait to compete at such a high level and it just goes to prove that all the work I have put into training has been worthwhile.”

Head of PE Anna Harvey said: “Everyone at college is thrilled and will be willing her on. Rebecca is incredibly committed to her sport and proof that dedication can lead to success at the top level.”