YEOVIL College’s Kelly Coombes, 16, has been invited to try out for the England Under-20s Sevens squad.

The former Gryphon School student from Sherborne was spotted during the recent Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens competition, where the Yeovil team reached the final and was presented with the ‘Spirit of Rugby’ award for team work, respect, enthusiasm for the sport and fair play.

Coombes will take part in day-long trials in Birmingham later in the year which will test her fitness and skill levels.

The BTEC Diploma (Level Three) Sport & Exercise Science student said: “I’m really excited about getting to try out for England.

“I was shocked when I was asked, I only started playing rugby competitively in January. Before that I mainly played netball and just played rugby for fun.

“Considering it’s my first year of playing, it’s amazing to get picked for something like this pretty much straight away.

“My parents were more shocked than anything when I told them. My dad thought I was joking around at first, but now they’re both really impressed and rooting for me.”

Lecturer Nadine Sheehan coaches Yeovil College’s ladies’ rugby team. She said: “Scouts often come to tournaments like this to look for potential top level players. I was approached on Kelly’s behalf and was delighted to pass on the message.

“She’s got a lot of great qualities alongside her sporting skills and knowledge of game play, like enthusiasm and drive.

“She’s also a versatile sportswoman, shown by her switch from netball to rugby.

“Whatever happens at the trials, it’s a great honour to be invited to take part and in the least I’m sure she’ll gain from the feedback she receives on the day.”