Durban first date in busy schedule

AMY Clinton has a hectic first part of 2017 lined up

THIS is a big year for teenage netball talent Amy Clinton.

The 19-year-old Oldham Netball Club starlet is heading to South Africa at the end of the month with England under-21s.

On her return, she will get stuck into the start of the Superleague season, before setting her sights on world glory in the summer.

The week-long trip to South Africa - they will be based in Durban - will pit the youngsters against the seniors of Australia, New Zealand and England.

It is huge test for Emily Perry's team, but one they are all relishing.

Amy, who is joined by Oldham club-mates Gabriella Marshall and Iona Darroch in the 14-strong squad, said: "We know it's going to be very tough, facing the best players in the world.

'STRIVE'
"However, it is something we all strive for as players, and I could have only dreamed of this situation this time last year."

Her schedule over the next weeks and months is punishing, mixing international and domestic programmes with training camps. She is heading to Loughborough this weekend, to meet up with her England team-mates.

Amy, who plays shooter, went on: "It's going to be very interesting and exciting, but I'm going to have to look after myself.

"The schedule in South Africa has a fast turnaround, with games every other day, and when I get back, it's straight into Superleague with Manchester Thunder.

"After that, it is the Netball World Youth Cup in Botswana in June - so it's pretty much non-stop."