The Stirling school’s under-15 footballers will face Braidhurst High School from Motherwell in the final of the Scottish Shield taking place at the Falkirk Stadium this Friday (13 June, kick off 8pm).
Having already secured a league and league cup double, the U15 side aim to go a step further in the Scottish Shield, having finished as runners up in 2023. They booked their return to the final after a dramatic 3-1 penalty shootout victory over Turnbull High School.
The side hope to use the example of the senior girls’ team who retained the Scottish Shield last month with a resounding 11-1 victory over Dundee’s Grove Academy. Five players from the cup winning senior squad are also eligible for the U15 side in a testament to the conveyor belt of footballing talent being produced at Wallace High.
'Amazing work ethic and commitment'
Head coach Rachel Whillans is Principal Teacher at Wallace High’s School of Sport, she said: “I am so proud of the girls, who have shown an amazing work ethic and commitment all year. Most of these girls have been together for three years and their journey and progress has been incredible. They began as S1’s in the School of Football programme and have stuck together and worked so hard to get to the level they are at today.
“Hours of training, numerous games and a togetherness like I have never seen before has allowed this talented group to reach a Scottish Cup Final. Inspired by the older girls, who won the U18s Shield, the girls have been desperate to emulate this. We have one more game, one more challenge and one more big night at Falkirk Stadium ahead. I know the girls will be ready and give it their all.”
Rachel continued: “It has been a tough run, facing some excellent opposition but this is a special group of players, who I have every confidence in. The semi-final epitomised their spirit. They have one final match to go and we will prepare correctly and give it everything on the night. I am so proud and can’t wait to see them walk out in front of the whole school community, who have been so supportive all the way. Thank you to our parents, carers, staff and friends and to the girls for their effort, passion and belief.”
'Feel nothing but pride'
Head Teacher Scott Pennock said: “One of the great privileges of my job has been spending quality time over the past twelve-and-a-half years cheering from the touchlines and watching a range of our young people across sports realise significant team and personal milestones as they have worked together to grow, progress and achieve.
“Our senior girls, with some of this team part of that squad, have done amazingly well in reaching three finals in a row and winning two years in succession. Our juniors are the future in following on from them and I know their legacy is in safe hands. I don’t know what the final score will be, but I do know that whatever it is, I will feel nothing but pride as I cheer you on, watching you give your best with a passionate Wallace community behind you. Drink in the occasion and atmosphere, and enjoy every minute – your achievements this season have been outstanding and we are all so proud of you.”
Convener of Stirling Council’s Children and Young People Committee, Cllr Danny Gibson said: “I would like to add my voice to the many who will be cheering on the girls this Friday as they aim to follow the achievements of the senior team in bringing silverware back to Stirling for Wallace High.
“The commitment of the players and coaches has brought them all to this point and regardless of the final result, your school, your friends and your family are all incredibly proud of your achievements so far.”
Lord Provost Elaine Watterson said: “The senior girls’ achievements in the competition last month inspired us all. It would be incredible if the U15 side makes their own mark in the competition and brings even more pride to the Wallace High community.
“The cup final will be a great occasion for both schools, so please come along to the Falkirk Stadium and show your support for these incredible young women.”
Wallace High launched its School of Sport in November 2012 and now supports its pupils’ potential in football, rugby, swimming, dance and basketball.
Its coaching staff includes local football legend Jimmy Bone, a Godfather of the Scottish game who played as a striker for clubs including Partick Thistle, Celtic, St Mirren and Hearts, winning two caps for Scotland.
Jimmy was a member of the fabled Partick Thistle team that defeated Celtic 4-1 in the League Cup final at Hampden in 1971 and he was also assistant manager to Alex Smith when St Mirren won the Scottish Cup 1-0 against Dundee United at the national stadium in 1987.
Final: Friday 13 June at Falkirk Stadium at 8pm. Admission £6 for adults, £4 for concessions.
U15 Girls Scottish Shield – road to the final:
- 1st round vs James Young High School (away) - 9-0
- 2nd round vs Portobello High School (home) - 9-1
- 3rd round vs Bathgate Academy (home) - 9-3
- Quarter final vs Carnoustie (home) - 9-5
- Semi-final vs Turnbull High School (Falkirk Stadium) - 2-2 (3-1 win on penalties)
Wallace Girls Squad:
Nieve Wick, Lacey Hilson, Clara Whitby, Daisy Jaimieson (captain), Kady Macleod, Rebekah Laing, Ava Dawson, Mia Mitchell, Isla Stevenson, Cara Broadley, Cara Nicolson, Carly Mason, Demi Millar, Sophie Thomson, Evelina Didrihsone, Carrie MacKenzie, Maralina Scacchi