TOUGH tackling hockey defenders Natalie Stevens and Abigail Cook have formed an iron wall for the North of England as young players who are inspired by Great Britain’s Olympic heroes.

The 16-year-old duo, who play for Alderley Edge Hockey Club women’s first team, have come through the elite development squads to regional level and featured in the recent Futures Cup and HiPac tournaments.

Agile and committed goalkeeper Natalie, who wants to study engineering at university when she leaves King’s School in hometown Macclesfield, has been promoted above her age group, playing both at under 17s and under 18s level, and has her sights set on following Maddie Hinch into the national squad.

She said: “The success of our Olympic team has given the sport a real boost, with numbers turning up for practice doubling over the close season.

“The Olympians have shown everyone just what can be achieved.”

Schoolmate Abi, a lightning quick half-back who wants to study psychology at university, uses her pace both in defence and attack.

She added: “Much of this success is due to the partnership between club and school.

“Our coach at King’s, Sarah Hopkin, also coaches and plays for Alderley Edge so we really do get the very best of both worlds.”

King’s hockey coach and club teammate Sarah Hopkin said: “Natalie and Abi have shown great dedication and determination to get to this level and will have to show more of the same if they are to pursue what is becoming an increasingly competitive elite development system.”