A Year 7 student at a secondary school in Worksop is celebrating after winning a Gold Medal at the 2022 World Kickboxing Organisation European Championships at the Barnsley Metrodome. 

Paige Everett, who attends ̨��swag Academy Valley, was taking part in her first major competition on the 30th April.

After winning the Rookies Thaiboxing (Under 12 Months Competing Experience) 11-12 years 32.1-36.0kg female category, Paige has now set her sights on further glory.

Paige said:

“I am still in shock a little with it, it was my first time competing at a major tournament so I was a little unsure about what to expect but now I’ve done it I cannot wait for the next opportunity to compete.”

Following her success, Paige, who was competing representing The Dojo, Worksop, has also qualified to represent the WKO-GB Team at the WKO World Championships 2022 in August. 

The World Championships will also be held in August at the Barnsley Metrodome, allowing Paige the opportunity to return to the scene of her success.

Paige added:

“It’s an exciting opportunity and one I am looking forward to. I genuinely do love the sport and I am just keen to learn more and more and keep on improving. I am still a beginner, but I want to compete and I will definitely be doing all I can to repeat my success in August.”

Paige has demonstrated a commitment to improving and as part of the Queen Street-based The Dojo, Worksop, Paige trains three times a week and is coached by Harris Butkeraitis and Neil Butkeraitis.

In addition to this, Paige regularly completes the Clumber 5km Park run on a Saturday morning, and the Worksop College 2km run on Sunday mornings, while also playing netball for Bassetlaw Bells.

Dave Cavill, Principal at ̨��swag Academy Valley, said:

“We are very proud of Paige and her exceptional achievement.

“She is a wonderful student who demonstrates the same commitment to her learning as she does to her sporting career. At ̨��swag, we believe in putting students first and supporting them to fulfil their potential and for us, this commitment goes beyond the classroom. We look forward to supporting her to further success.”