Netballer Mia named on Sports Personality shortlist
Team Bath and England netballer Mia Ritchie has been named on a four-strong shortlist for the University of Bath Sports Personality of the Year award for 2013.
The 23-year-old midcourter, originally from Lymington, is studying for a degree in Sports Performance at the University of Bath.
She features on a shortlist that also includes two London 2012 Olympic silver medallists who combine training with studying at the University, swimmer Michael Jamieson and modern pentathlete Samantha Murray. Basketball player Tom Janicot completes the shortlist.
Mia, has played a key role in midcourt during Team Bath’s Superleague campaign this season.
She also captained the University of Bath to the British Universities and Colleges (BUCS) title last year and her form earned her a place in the senior England squad.
Mia said: “I’m really pleased to be named on a shortlist alongside such distinguished athletes as Michael and Samantha. It’s no mean feat to win an Olympic medal.
“It’s not just good for me, it also shows that netball is getting the recognition it deserves as a sport,” she added. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed studying and training at the University and being part of such a strong netball family.”
The winner is determined by a vote my members of Students’ Union Sport and will be announced at the annual Blues Awards ceremony, which takes place at Bath’s historic Assembly Rooms on 1 May.
The Blues Awards dinner are the highlights of the student sporting calendar in Bath, celebrating the achievements of student athletes at the University and the contribution that sport makes to University life.
Other awards presented on the evening include BUCS Team of the Year, Club of the Year and the Ivor Powell Award for Coaching Excellence. Colours, Half Blues and Full Blues will be presented to individuals in recognition of their achievement, performance and commitment to sport at the University of Bath.
And all University alumni who competed at the London 2012 Olympics or Paralympics and athletes who trained at the University full-time in the lead-up to the Games will receive Honorary Blues.
Jon Gleave, Students’ Union Sport Officer, said: "The Blues are always the highlight of the student sporting calendar and are an opportunity for us to recognise the sporting achievement of our students, clubs and coaches. It promises to be a great evening, and one where we can be proud to celebrate a truly excellent year.”
Stephen Baddeley, Director of Sport at the University of Bath, said: “The last year has been a memorable one for the University’s student athletes and we’re looking forward to celebrating their achievements at the Blues Awards dinner.”
Voting for the Sports Personality of the Year award closes at 4pm on Tuesday 30 April.
