Trio Named as Finalists for Young Athlete of the Year Prize
Published 17 minutes ago
England footballer Michelle Agyemang, darts prodigy Luke Littler and cricketer Davina Perrin have been selected as contenders for the this year's Young Athlete of the Year award.
These three athletes have been recognised for their exceptional achievements over the previous year.
Agyemang was instrumental as the Lionesses secure Euro 2025, Littler secured the world title for the maiden time, and Perrin surged to prominence with a historic innings.
Littler claimed this honour in 2024 after his remarkable rise.
The three contenders were revealed during a live broadcast on a national radio breakfast show.
The 2025 recipient will be announced during a live broadcast on the prestigious sports ceremony show on Thursday, 18 December.
The ceremony will be televised from seven in the evening GMT.
The Football Star
Age: 19 Sport: Football
A mere three months after her international debut, Agyemang played a dramatic and decisive role in England's run to European Championship victory.
She entered the fray to score crucial late equalisers in both the knockout stage games.
Agyemang's stunning interventions led to her being named the tournament's top young talent.
Afterwards, she was awarded the prestigious Golden Girl honour for the best young player in Europe.
She was also in contention for the Kopa Trophy for the planet's top young female footballer.
Agyemang, who has been on loan at Brighton from Arsenal, ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in October.
"Being on the shortlist for this honour is an honour," said Agyemang. "I'm grateful to God and I'm thankful for the support I've received from my inner circle and supporters."
Luke Littler
Age: 18 Sport: Darts
Littler kicked off the year in sensational style as - aged 17 - he became the most youthful world title winner in history.
He secured a commanding win over Michael van Gerwen in the final.
His follow-up triumph at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth individual to complete the prestigious three major tournament wins.
His success continued - his triumph in November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he ascended to world number one for the very first time.
At 18, he is the most youthful player to do so, smashing the previous record.
"To receive a nomination for this award again is a massive accolade," stated Littler. "Winning last year was a special memory for me and I've had another incredible 12 months. I want to continue elevating darts."
Davina Perrin
Age: 19 Sport: Cricket
Perrin is one of English cricket's most exciting young talents and rose to fame with an extraordinary and record-breaking innings in August.
Her brilliant 42-ball century in The Hundred is the speediest century from an England batswoman in T20s.
It also stands as the equal third-quickest women's T20 century in a major league or full member T20 international.
Perrin came in second place in the season's run tally and was named the young player of the year by the PCA.
"I'm truly honoured to be shortlisted for the Young Sports Personality of the Year award," expressed Perrin. "It means a great deal. I hope it encourages more young women to get into cricket."
