Wilmington Grammar School for Boys, in Dartford, praises 'talented' pupil sports stars
Two young pupils are aiming high after their recent sporting success.
Babafunmi Falode, 15, and Finnley Dunning, 12, have made their school proud after making it through trials and being selected for prestigious teams in their respective sports.
The sports mad Wilmington Grammar School for Boys’ pupils excelled in both rugby and gymnastics.
Babafunmi, also known as Babs, from Welling, was selected for the final Saracens Rugby Academy squad.
He was inspired to start playing the sport when watching brother Ayotunde, who plays at a county level, and being picked for the school team by his teacher.
He said: “I’m a massive Saracens supporter and I can’t wait to start training with their academy, my dad and teachers are really proud of me, my mum is too but she’s a bit worried about the physical side of the game.”
Bexley resident Finnley on the other hand was chosen for the men’s artistic gymnastics team and will take part in the British Championships in March.
He heads to his local club six times a week to train, despite dislocating his finger recently.
He said: “I love gymnastics, it keeps me fit and it’s really fun. I’m looking forward to joining the England squad and I am hoping this will give me the opportunity of improving my gymnastics skills even further and to compete internationally.”
PE teacher Matt Lynch was proud of both his pupils.
The rugby coach added: “Babs and Finnley are exceptionally talented sportsmen and both have worked extremely hard to get to the level they have. They are great ambassadors for the school, themselves and their families.
“We are extremely proud of them both and look forward to watching their progress as they rise to the new challenges in front of them.
“They are great role models in the department and their achievements will hopefully inspire other students to achieve sporting success.”
Head teacher Charlie Guthrie said: “They are lovely young men who both put 100% into all that they do, they show true dedication not only to their sporting achievements but throughout their academic career here at the school - we are all exceptionally proud.”