England diving squad set for Roma Junior Diving Cup

Ten talented young divers are set to represent England at this weekend’s Roma Junior Diving Cup, one of Europe’s premier age-group diving events.

Now in its 15th edition, the competition welcomes teams from across the globe and will take place from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 June at the Stadio del Nuoto – Foro Italico in Rome – a venue that previously hosted the 2009 World Aquatics Championships and the 2022 European Aquatics Championships.

Much of the England squad are fresh from standout performances at the Aquatics GB Elite Junior Diving Championships in Plymouth this April.

That includes Phoenix Victory Hopkins, who captured two gold medals in the Group C 10m Platform and 3m Springboard, as well as a silver in the 1m Springboard. He’s joined in the Group C Boys events by Lucas Bishop, who pushed him all the way in both the 3m and 10m finals to take two silvers in Plymouth.

Bishop’s City of Leeds teammates Ralph Airey and Hakim Whyte will take to the boards in the Group B events, alongside Dive London’s Josh Saxton, who previously swept the National Age Group titles two years ago.

On the female side, Ella Swete’s breakout performance in Plymouth earned her a spot in Rome. She took two medals, including gold in the 3m Springboard. She’s joined in the Group C age group by City of Sheffield’s Willow Kesteven-McGrath, who took gold in the Platform event ahead of Swete in April.

The Southend Diving duo of Emma Mansfield and Alice Murphy will lead the English charge in the Group B Girls events whilst Sheffield’s Izzy Diacon will be looking to continue her consistent displays in the Italian capital.

Ahead of the competition Swim England Diving Talent and Inclusion Officer, Charles Calvert – who is also Team Leader and Head Coach for the trip – is looking forward to seeing what the team can achieve in Italy.

“Every diver selected has already shown their potential both in Plymouth and throughout their journey on the talent pathway,” he said.

This competition is a first overseas experience for many and gives them the chance to take on some of Europe’s best, gaining valuable experience where they can grow both as athletes and as people.

“We’re excited to see what they can achieve and are looking forward to the trip.”

The full competition schedule and live results for the event are available here.