A 12-year-old boy from Letchworth has been awarded the national under 13s Player of the Year in rink hockey.

The Comet: Luca Oakley, 12, now has his sights set on securing a place in the U15 championship England squad next year. Picture: Courtesy of Gillian JemettaLuca Oakley, 12, now has his sights set on securing a place in the U15 championship England squad next year. Picture: Courtesy of Gillian Jemetta (Image: Archant)

Luca Oakley joined the Letchworth Rink Hockey Club and the England Development Program at the age of 7.

Last year the Heritage Foundation awarded him a grant to enable him to travel and compete in the Eurockey Competition in Spain.

The Highfield student has since travelled abroad many times to play against many high level European teams and has had a very successful season with the LRHC playing in both U13 and U15 teams.

Luca’s mum Aline Oakley said: “We are so proud of Luca’s achievement. We’d like to thank The Highfield School for their support in allowing Luca time off school to play for the England Development Squad.

“It is without a doubt helping him to develop into a very talented player and young man that knows the importance of teamwork, respect, commitment and discipline.”