The Manx Hockey Association is delighted to announce that young Isle of Man hockey player Ela B has been selected to represent England Under-18 School Girls at an international tournament from 3–6 September 2026.
The four-day tournament will see England face Wales, Ulster and Scotland, with Ela pulling on the England shirt for the first time at this level.
Ela, who plays her club hockey for Harlequins, has represented the Isle of Man at U14, U16 and U18 level, as well as the IOM Ladies B and A sides. She was selected for the final 18-player England squad from 60 athletes competing within the England Hockey Talent Academy pathway.
Ela’s hockey journey began at the Manx Youth Games in 2016, aged just seven. Since then, she has progressed through club and Island representative hockey before entering the England Hockey pathway, initially joining the Performance Centre in 2021/22 and subsequently spending four seasons in the Talent Academy programme.
During her final Talent Academy season, Ela was also one of just two squad captains, highlighting the leadership qualities she has developed alongside her ability on the pitch.
She is currently completing the England Hockey Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme, through which the recent selection process took place.
Her selection is a fantastic achievement for Ela and a proud moment for Manx hockey, demonstrating the opportunities and progression available to young players developing on the Isle of Man.
Rachael Middleton, Harlequins Chair and Manx Hockey Coach said: “We are incredibly proud of what Ela has achieved already, both with Harlequins and IOM representative sides, and look forward to seeing her take the next steps in her hockey journey at international level.”
Everyone involved with Manx Hockey and Harlequins will no doubt be following the tournament closely and wishing Ela every success as she takes to the international stage.
From the Manx Youth Games in 2016 to an England shirt in 2026 – ten years of hockey, and a fantastic achievement for the young Manx player.
England Under-18 Girls Fixtures
Thursday 3 September
England v Wales — 1pm
Friday 4 September
England v Ulster — 7pm
Saturday 5 September
England v Scotland — 7pm
Sunday 6 September
Medal Ceremony
