Manx hockey star Sienna Dunn is set for a grueling final chapter in her junior international career as she anchors the England Under-21 squad at the 2026 Euro Hockey Championships, which commence in Valencia this weekend.
The call-up caps off a relentless few months for the former Valkyrs standout. Dunn successfully balanced finishing her university degree with rigorous England U21 trials and elite training alongside the GB Elite Development Squad. Her selection was solidified early this month following an impressive showing at a week-long preparation festival against heavyweights Belgium, the USA, and India.
Now turned 21, this tournament represents the culmination of a six-year journey within the national junior pathway for the talented player, who originally moved from the Isle of Man to England to advance her academic and athletic career.
England Head Coach Simon Letchford will lean heavily on Dunn’s veteran presence. Having previously captained the U16, U18 and U21 national sides, playing in two junior World Cups, and claiming a bronze medal at the 2024 Euros, Dunn provides vital leadership to a team facing a monumental task. The tournament structure will test the squad’s depth to its absolute limits, demanding five high intensity matches in just seven days. “I am delighted and excited to have the opportunity to compete against Europe’s strongest hockey nations,” said Letchford. “This tournament will give the players the exposure to stretch and challenge themselves. We will face a stern test and take each game as it comes.”
England faces a daunting path through the tournament, having drawn a brutal group that includes reigning European and World champions the Netherlands and 2024 runners-up Spain. The campaign begins this Sunday with a crucial opening clash against rivals Scotland. Ahead of the tournament, Dunn expressed her deep gratitude to everyone who has supported her development to this point, extending a special thanks Gill, Leanna, Paul Jones and the staff at Isle of Man Sports Aid. After completion of the competition Sienna will start a new chapter of post graduate education at Pennsylvania State University accompanied with a heavy fall semester hockey schedule in the big ten league.
The Manx Hockey Association and its members wishes Sienna every success in the Euro Hockey competition, and in her future studies and hockey career.
