Katie Startup competes for England in U17 UEFA Qualifiers
Congratulations to Girls COE U17s Goalkeeper, Katie Startup, who was recently selected to represent England U17s in the UEFA Championship qualifiers which took place at the end of September.
After impressing during England U16s recent participation in the Nordic Tournament, Katie was just one of two keepers selected for the final squad of 18 players made up of Centre of Excellence players up and down the country.
The qualifiers took place in Estonia and the squad flew out to Tallinn on 28th September to face Croatia, Estonia and Poland. The U17s kicked of their qualifiers with a win an impressive 13-0 win over Croatia.
Their second game was against hosts Estonia in their National Stadium and all Gills fans were very proud when it was announced Katie would be starting. The game again finished 13-0 and it was a well-deserved clean sheet for Katie.
Their last game was a top of the table clash against Poland who had also beaten Estonia and Croatia. England led 2-0 at half-time but conceded two late penalties which saw the clash finish 2-2. England topped the group on goal difference and have now progressed to the Elite round of the qualifiers.
Startup said: “It was an amazing experience to play at the National Stadium of Estonia and to work with the other players and England coaches on a daily basis. Having the chance to work on specific tactics to overcome international teams was also fantastic and knowledge I will carry with me at club level. ”
U17s Manager, Pete Sayer said: “Katie's continued hard work, commitment and professional attitude has enabled her to develop her game to higher and higher levels and it has come as no surprise that she was once again called up on international duty.
“We are all extremely proud of her achievements and are excited to see our club represented at the highest level of the game. I speak for all the coaches and players in wishing Katie the best of luck!'
Technical Director, Mark Patterson added: “Katie is a very talented young keeper and thoroughly deserves all her success with England. She is a total professional in all aspects of the game and has a very bright future ahead of her and one we are looking forward to seeing.”
Next week Katie will again be meeting up with the U17s squad for a training camp at Bisham Abbey.
Congratulations again to Katie from a very proud Gillingham FC.