Isla Brook, 14, from Mansfield is competing at national level across three sports – basketball, volleyball and handball – and is among the most promising multi-talented young athletes in the country.
Her development has been supported by Mansfield District Council and Leisure Solutions Community Trust through the International Sports Person Pass scheme, which gives her free membership at Oak Tree Leisure Centre in Mansfield. She trains and coaches with the Mansfield Giants basketball team.
Achievements and Recognition
Among Isla's recent milestones is selection to represent her country in an overseas cup final at age 14. She has also completed her Level 1 Basketball Coaching Qualification and regularly volunteers as an assistant coach, helping younger players develop their skills.
Dan Richards, her coach at the Mansfield Giants basketball team, said: "Isla's sporting journey is defined by outstanding skill, relentless discipline and a genuine passion to be the very best version of herself. To be chosen to play for your country in an overseas cup final at just 14 is an extraordinary milestone for someone of her age."
Balancing Training and School
Isla said her free gym access will help her build strength and flexibility, which are essential for high-impact sports. She added: "All of my sports are high impact, therefore you can never have enough strength training. My life would not be as enjoyable if sport wasn't a major part of it."
She also explained how her sporting commitment has shaped her beyond the court: "It is difficult at times to keep up with all the training as well as school, but I feel the commitment to training has taught me to be disciplined and focused, and these skills help me in all areas of my life, including school."
Cllr Andy Burgin, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Environment, said: "We are delighted that our International Sports Person Pass is helping to support Isla in reaching sporting success at the highest level. This investment underscores what supporting Isla is all about: backing a dedicated young local athlete who gives back to her community every step of the way."
