Scotland call for BCHS's Caitlin
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NOT every footballer gets to make history but for a talented young full back at Buckie Community High School that is exactly what has happened.
For Caitlin Carnegie (13) the call most footballers can only ever dream of – to represent her country – has come true when she heard she has been selected for the BGC International Girls Team under-15s squad for the tie against Wales in early August.
If that were not an honour enough, it has emerged that the BCHS under-15 and Deveronvale left back is the first girl to be called up to the Scotland squad from the school.
Her selection comes hot on the heels of her inclusion in the Norht of Scotland under-15 squad along with fellow BCHS stars Lori Lappin and Catie Carter.
It was a case of try and try again for the S3 student to get a shot at wearing the dark blue, having got through the first phase of trials for the national team last year but not making the cut at the second session. This time round, over two trials held at Dundee, she has earned her right to be among the 16 players representing Scotland against the Welsh.
She said: "It's really good, I'm very excited to be in the squad.
"I did think I was good enough to get through although the quality of the players at the trials was very high, there were a lot of good players from the Edinburgh and Glasgow area there so it's great to make it.
"We've got our first squad training day in July so I'm really looking froward to that. I'm hopeful of getting a game against Wales, we'll see."
In the meantime, Caitlin has been enjoying the Women's World Cup where Scotland made their debut in the competition against England, a game ultimately decided by a controversial refereeing decision.
"That was never a penalty," she said, echoing the thoughts of a nation.
"Its been really great to see Scotland playing there, as a player it gives you something to reach for."
Congratulating her, BCHS PE teacher Colin Smith commented: "We're delighted for Caitlin, very proud of her indeed.
"She really deserves it and it our third Scotland cap – and I believe our first ever girls cap – in four years.
"Her selection has been an inspiration to the other girls and will hopefully persuade some of our new S1s to sign up for the school team."
There was also praise for her achievements from BCHS rector Neil Johnson.
“I’m always really delighted when young people have the hard work and commitment it takes to operate at this level recognised.
"Caitlin is one of those students who manages to successfully juggle her commitments at school with training and competing in her football. This would be a challenge for anyone – never mind for a 13-year old!
"Well done Caitlin – everyone at Buckie High is very proud of you!”
Caitlin is no stranger to medals, the BCHS under-15 winning last season's Moray League without a single defeat and also lifting the North of Scotland Cup.
