Above: Rebecca proudly displays her medals at Dame Allan’s Schools
Rebecca Etherington (Year 9), beat the competition to win the title of under-15 shot put champion at the Scottish Indoor Championships. Now, she’s looking ahead to her next competition.
Rebecca, who lives in Stanley and attends Dame Allan’s Girls’ School in Newcastle, is a talented ‘multi-eventer’ athlete, having been involved in the sport since the age of 8. Her skill set includes the discus throw, javelin, hurdles, and running. Rebecca was particularly inspired by her Mum, Jacqueline, a physiotherapist and keen runner, and her Grandma, Christine, both of whom have previously competed at European and World level.
Speaking about her recent triumph, Rebecca said: “I was so pleased to have performed well at the Scottish Indoor Championships for shot put, it was really nerve-wracking! The level of competition is really strong, but I went in and did my best. I’m now working towards future competitions in the summer.
I’m really proud to be a multi-eventer, it allows me to develop a range of skills and it is never boring!”
The dedicated teenager – who trains regularly at Gateshead Stadium with the Gateshead Harriers athletic club – also plays the saxophone in the Dame Allan’s’ jazz band, as well as taking part in hockey and netball matches within school.
Rebecca is now anticipating her next major event in July, in which she will be hoping to qualify and compete in the English Schools Junior Girls Track & Field Championships, in the discus throw category.
As well as continuing to compete in athletics, Rebecca is pursuing a high level of academic success, with ambitions to become a veterinarian after school – inspired by the family dog Ollie, a black labrador!
Mum Jacqueline and Dad Rod are very proud of their multi-talented daughter, saying:
“Rebecca is very dedicated to her training and has continued to improve every season, both indoors and outdoors, learning to adapt her technique and find what works for her. There is no doubt that the support from school has been hugely important in her development and has been the basis for her determination, perseverance and striving to succeed.”
Will Scott, Principal of Dame Allan’s Schools said: “At Dame Allan’s we encourage all of our pupils to try new things to help them develop into well-rounded adults, and Rebecca is the epitome of this can-do attitude. We wish her well for all of her future competitions, and know that she will continue to thrive.”