A TEENAGE netball player was overjoyed to claim a bronze medal at the National School Games.

Deni Agnew represented Surrey Storm in the under-15 netball tournament, which saw some of the country’s best up-and-coming netball stars go head-to-head at Loughborough University.

And having bagged third place, Deni was pleased to return with a bronze medal to show for her efforts.

Deni, who is a Southend United season ticket holder, said: “It was a great experience to represent Surrey Storm in the National School Games.

“I loved every minute of the tournament.”

Deni was selected by head coaches to play in the National School Games, which is a fine platform for young athletes to show their talents and gives them an insight into the competitive world of sport.

The National School Games also gave youngsters such as Deni the opportunity to meet professional athletes and idols in all fields.

Deni, 15, was one of the 12 girls selected to represent Surrey Storm and they competed in numerous live streamed clashes.

Surrey Storm went head-to-head with the likes of Yorkshire Jets, Northumbria, Mavericks, Loughborough Lightning and London Pulse.

St Clere’s School pupil Deni put in a string of fine performances and Surrey Storm missed out on a place in the final on goal difference.

However, the team’s reward for their impressive form was a place in the third place play-off, where they met Manchester Thunder.

Having fallen to a four-goal deficit, Surrey Storm managed to pull themselves back into the encounter.

The lead continuously changed hands and the clash was incredibly tense going into the fourth quarter.

Manchester Thunder boasted a two-goal advantage, but Surrey Storm came back fighting after making a few alterations to the line-up.

The scores were level at 30-30 heading into the final minute and both sides were eager to grab a late lead.

Deni’s side were successful and recorded a 31-30 victory thanks to a last gasp goal.

As a result, Deni was able to follow in the footsteps of numerous high profile athletes and travel to back to south Essex with a National School Games bronze medal after a tough competition.