Highfield and Brookham School are celebrating the success of head boy and Year 8 pupil Rupert Elmore, who has been selected for the under-14 UK Lions programme following an outstanding performance at the under-13 Regional Hockey Championships.

Representing South Saxons at the tournament, held at the National Hockey Centre in Nottingham, Elmore captained his side to victory in the third/fourth place play-off.

The tournament brought together 11 regional squads from across the UK, providing an opportunity for the country's most promising young players to compete at the highest level.

At the conclusion of the championships, 13-year-old Elmore, from Liphook, received an invitation to join the under-14 UK Lions for the 2026-27 season.

Over the coming year, he will take part in an extensive programme of training camps in the UK and overseas, culminating in a major tournament in August 2027.

Elmore said: “At the end of a fantastic weekend of hockey in Nottingham, I was thrilled to have been selected for the UK Lions.

“I'm really excited to have this opportunity and am looking forward to getting to know, and playing alongside, some amazing hockey players from all over the UK.”

Highfield and Brookham School headteacher Suzannah Cryer said: "We are incredibly proud of Rupert on this fantastic achievement.

“As our head boy, he has led by example and has been a wonderful role model for younger pupils.

“His selection for the UK Lions is thoroughly deserved and is a fitting reward for the commitment and passion he has shown to hockey over many years.

“We have loved watching Rupert grow during his time at Highfield and Brookham and are delighted to see him rewarded with this exciting opportunity.

“We wish him every success as he embarks on this next chapter.”