The Canada Life sponsored Isle of Man National Women’s Squad has been announced, ahead of the Island Games in Guernsey in July.

The final squad is: Stevie Mallon, Lisa Costain, Erin Sells, Kayleigh Greggor, Blae Cain, Chloe Teare, Kayleigh Georgeson, Tia Lisy, Megan Kelly, Ellie Gawne, Holly Sumner, Louise Gibbons, Anna Shaw, Keira Morgan, Becky Corkish, Becci Cole, Holly Stephen and Ruby Palmer.

Manager Wayne Lisy – who was appointed in September 2021 - has been working with a training squad since the start of last year. He says narrowing it down has not been easy: ‘Since the start of the year, the training atmosphere, commitment, and intensity has been excellent, which has made choosing a final squad even more difficult. It’s a great problem to have though.  I have also been impressed that the players who just missed out on selection have continued to train. I have no doubt that these players will be part of future Island Games squads.

‘The squad has a blend of youth and experience with 50% of players not having been to an Island Games before.  This is not surprising given we haven’t had a competitive match for four years due to Covid, and the quality of players that have turned 16 since 2019.

‘There is absolutely no reason given the quality of the players in the squad that we shouldn’t be aiming for Gold in Guernsey.  The team will be well prepared and focused for our first group match on the Sunday 09th July!’

The newly named squad will face their first test against Accrington Stanley at The Wham Stadium on Sunday 30th April, followed by Upton Ladies (near Chester) on the 13th May and finally a friendly against potential Island Games competitors - Ynys Mon - in Wrexham on Saturday 27th May. 

Lisy – who is supported by Assistant Coaches Luke Stewart and Kira Buchan – continued: ‘These fixtures are vital to ensure the team can take our training objectives into a real match scenario.  Off-island matches are also great for team morale and bonding, which will be essential if we are to be successful in Guernsey in July.’

Thank you to Isle of Man Women’s National Team sponsors Canada Life, as well as the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, which is generously assisting with travel to the UK.