Stuart Hope, 16, who began his basketball journey in year nine at the Worcester school, has achieved his dream by securing a spot at the Myerscough College Basketball Academy in Preston, a national centre for sporting excellence.

The academy provides student-athletes with resources and experiences to accelerate their careers.

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It closely simulates a professional setup and offers a foundation degree in basketball coaching and performance.

Mr Holmes, the school’s basketball coach, said: “Since being at Nunnery, it was clear to see Stuart had a passion for the sport of basketball.

“Every opportunity that was given to him he made the most of and fully embraced.

“He represented the school in many basketball fixtures and competitions, with some outstanding performances in the Dynamik National Schools competition.”

In only his second season ever playing the sport, Stuart, who left Nunnery Wood over the summer, went on to represent the Worcester Wolves U18s National League team, being a key player at just 15 years of age.

Mr Holmes said: “In the short time of Stuart playing, I haven’t come across many students who have progressed as quickly as he did.

“This is down to his dedication and hard work, and the support of both Nunnery Wood staff and Worcester Wolves Junior Academy.

“Myerscough College Basketball Academy was mentioned to Stuart as an opportunity to compete with the very best talent in the UK and to further develop his game, with many that have progressed to the next level.”

The academy is known for producing players who have received athletic scholarships to universities in the UK and the US, represented their countries at junior and senior levels, and signed professional basketball contracts.

Mr Holmes added: “The academy closely simulates a professional setup, where he will be a student-athlete having access to great facilities and coaches, with a chance to represent the academy in competitions in the UK and Europe.”