HockeyGemma Brookes

How did you first get involved in your sport?

Through high school and PE lessons.

What does a typical week look like for you?

I attend college 5 days a week having to travel an hour to get to my college each day, I normally train about 3-4 times a week then have a club game on Saturday involving me travelling across the country for league games and then also representing my college. I train for college twice a week for an hour then train on Wednesdays at Cannock for 2 hours. Sundays I usually have Midlands training, England training, British colleges training or a cup game. I live about 40 miles from Cannock (my home ground) so travelling also plays a big part in my week as it takes me about an hour and a half to get to my home ground.

What do you enjoy the most about being a sportsperson?

I enjoy the thrill I get from competing at a high level and the honour of representing my country. I also enjoy training to become the best I can be in order for me to hopefully compete at the highest level possible.

What are your targets for the next 12 months?

Keep Cannock Ladies in the National Premiership. Represent England U18 again. Get accepted into a university with a NPC.

What are your long term aims?

I would love to win the U21 Junior World Cup as it is the biggest tournament at junior level for hockey and is a chance to represent my country against countries such as Australia which has not been possible at U16 or U18 level.

Who is your sporting hero?

Joe Hart - as a goalkeeper it's often hard to deal with staying on the bench the whole game and then not playing in a tournament but after seeing Joe Hart's attitude after the World Cup where he was 3rd choice and then to train and work hard to become first choice really impressed me.

What do you do in your free time?

If i'm not studying or playing hockey I like to socialise with my friends.

How will your award help you?

I will spend my award on training and travelling costs and gym membership to allow me to access better training facilities.