The Class of 2021 experienced the most unique experience that St David’s College could offer, experiencing challenges that no other student had faced before them. They stood up to the challenge. As we look back over the past two years now there are certainly students that inspired others around them – and that is true for Georgia Hellerman.
At this years Leaver’s Ceremony, Georgia Hellerman won the St John Paul II award, an award given to a student that has displayed Outstanding Achievement in Sport. Why? Well…
Since the age of 14, Georgia has represented Wales in Netball, playing then with the Under 17s. After just 6 months with the team, she earned a spot to compete in the Netball Europe U17 Championships. The following season, Georgia would again represent Wales in the Europe U17 Championships – as captain.
Whilst sitting her A levels at St David’s, Georgia was selected for the Wales College Squad and the Wales U21 World Cup squad.
As if this wasn’t enough, Georgia has also represented Wales in Basketball since the age of 11, and has played in FIBA European competitions in Malta (U14s), Gibraltar (U16) and Moldova (U16).
It is not just on the court that Georgia displays the attitude of a captain. During periods of lockdown Georgia took to social media, with other members of the Cardiff Archers, to promote the benefits of exercise and provide drills and workouts.
Speaking of the importance of young people engaging with physical activities and sporting opportunities, Georgia says
“I feel it is extremely important especially for health and wellbeing. I found whilst studying for my GCSE’s and A Levels that sport and physical activity were a distraction and a way to release any stress.
“I also have made some of my closest friends through sport, meeting new people and enjoying new experiences. Sport and Physical activity at any performance or development level is a way to have fun, engage, and help with fitness and mental health”
After two years at St David’s we asked Georgia what she would take away from St David’s.
“The support, positivity, encouragement and belief from my teachers throughout the Covid pandemic. If ever I had a query or was unsure, my teachers would always be there to help. I also had support from all of the staff, including the Exams Officer and Vice Principal. St David’s always celebrated mine and other pupils achievements and I always felt staff at the college were proud.
To be nominated, at the end of my two years for the St John Paul II Award was an absolute honour. I thoroughly enjoyed my two years at St David’s. I cannot speak highly enough of my experience and will look back fondly”.
Georgia is now going on to study Sport, Physical Education and Health at Cardiff Met University, having been inspired by her time at St David’s College and St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School. Georgia will also be continuing through the Netball National Pathways, and aims to play Super League Netball, where we’ll all be supporting her.
