After a difficult, but ultimately constructive U23s England Trial at Larford Lakes near Stourport, Mark Downes, Drennan Team England Manager has selected his U23s squad for the FIPSed World Championship to be held in Redon, France from 27th – 28th July.

Mark Downes, Drennan Team England U23s Manager said, “I am trying a new format this year, one I will be experimenting with on the FIPSed World Clubs Championship in Italy with Starlets, and the FIPSed U23 World Championship in France. I have watched other international teams try this format so I feel it is time to give it a go.”
“For a long time now I have felt that it is vitally important for squad members not only to practise hard themselves, but to be more aware of exactly how other teams are tackling the venue, as sometimes we can end up with a tunnel vision  appraisal of tactics.”
“I have selected six lads for the U23s squad this year as the venue may switch from pole to slider, and this squad will all travel to France.  On each practice day one will be on the bank watching, and then gathering information from events unfolding on the bank.”

The squad will consist of;

Matt Godfrey            Age 21         Sheffield            

Matt Derry                Age 21         Hednesford               

James Dent              Age 21        Yarm                        

Oliver Scotthorne     Age 22         Rotherham          

Alex Clements         Age 19         Petersfield

Rory Jones              Age 18         Hereford

The squad who will be joining the experienced regulars of Matt Godfrey, Matt Derry and James Dent are;Oliver Scotthorne who has put a lot of time and effort into the trial, and was rewarded by a superb performance from a poor area on the day,  Oliver has fished for the U18 squad previously, and has come on leaps and bounds in recent years.

Alex Clements at just 19 has an experienced head on young shoulders, and is a regular first team member of the powerful Milo Bordon squad.  Alex put in a good performance, and Mark has been tracking his recent form.  Alex fared well in the recent Sensas International Challenge Final winning his section, showing great versatility.

Rory Jones the youngster of the squad who at 18 is Mark’s “joker card”, has a great future in front of him.  Rory is a little unique, a proper natural venue master who excels on his favoured river Wye, where Mark has watched him on numerous occasions put together great weights on bolo, waggler and pole.  Rory will be a great asset on the River Villaines. He is young and has fished at U18 level and will do well on this venue.

Mark Downes added; “The trial was tough, but even if the anglers did not fare too well it was great to see how the individuals coped with the pressure.  Well done to all the youngsters who took part in the England U23s trials this year.”
“I have a great group of lads to work with here and a good spread of ages.  This way we have continuity for many years to come, and with anglers like Connor Barlow, Jake Marshall, and Frankie Gianoncelli all in the wings the future looks good.”