To celebrate Scottish Women & Girls in Sport Week 2025, Mr Reid our Director of Sport asked five of our up-and-coming female athletes to talk about their sporting journey so far, why they feel sport is important to them and what advice they would pass on to younger pupils.

To round off our week of celebration we have Hockey Captain Esther W (SVI). A stalwart of the 1st XI since SIV, Esther has played at school, district and national level.

What is the highest level you’ve competed at in hockey?
The highest level of hockey I have played is for the Scotland U16s in the summer tournaments. I also play for the Scottish Hockey Women’s Premiership League.

What do you like about hockey?
What I like most about hockey is winning my individual battles. I also love the social element of hockey and being part of a team that wins and loses together.

What do you like about sport in general?
In general, what I like about sport is just the competition aspect of it because I love competing and learning every time I make a mistake.  

Why do you feel sport is important for girls?
Sport is so important for young girls as it build so many key skills like being a part of a team and building confidence.

What is your favourite sport away from hockey?
My favourite sport away from hockey would probably be badminton.

How is your sporting idol?
My sporting Idol is Yibbi Jansen who is a Dutch hockey player and is arguably the best in the world. She is a true role model for every hockey player.

What is one piece of advice you would give to younger pupils?
One piece of advice I would give to young people starting in sport would be to not put too much pressure on yourself and that it is okay to make mistakes. It matters more about what you do after the mistake.

Thank you, Esther! What a great finish to our week. We hope you have enjoyed reading what our athletes have had to say.