Erskine footballer first to represent school in international squad

Abby Hayes, 14, has been selected to represent Scottish Schools' Football Association at under 15 level after overcoming several different football trials. 

The Park Main High pupil plays as a right-back and is in her sixth season with Rangers as she looks to progress through the ranks.

Approximately 600 girls had initially trialled for the squad, with the final number being cut down to a team of 18 that will go on and represent Scotland in this year's Bob Doc Tournament in Athlone in the Republic of Ireland.

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Speaking about her achievement of being selected, Abby's dad Alan said that he was "delighted" for her as she puts as many hours in away from the pitch as she does on it.

He said: "Abby is just football daft.

"She has always been obsessed ever since she was around three or four when she used to come along with me when I coached at Erskine Youth Club. 

"Naturally you are just delighted but I am so happy for her because she deserves it.

“As a family, we are all so proud of her. Me and her mum are all booked up to go and watch her”.

The defender will be looking to leave a good impression on the international stage in March as she is set to face Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and English schools.

And the teenager is also making family history as she is the first person to represent Scotland, at any level, in her family.

Abby said: “When I heard I was in the team I was incredibly excited I realised the opportunity in front of me and how proud my family would be of me.

“I am looking forward to playing games with the team and hopefully lifting a trophy."