The Sensas England Under-25 team manager, Mark Downes MBE, has announced a seasoned squad for the upcoming World Youth Championships. This year’s competition will be held on the Guadiana River in Mérida, Spain. Following a rigorous assessment day at Makins Fisheries, Downes has selected a team that combines experience and proven international success.
Four members of last year’s squad — Josh Derry, Brandon George, Will McCranor, and Josh Newman — will return to represent England again. Joining them is Billy Kirk, who steps up from the England U20 team. Kirk, currently ranked as the World No. 1 in the U20 category, has an impressive track record. Over the past three years, he has been part of the Beechfield England U20 team that secured two gold medals and one silver. Individually, he earned a silver medal in 2023.
Downes, supported by Assistant Manager Darran Bickerton during the championship, shared his thoughts on the squad selection.
It’s an experienced squad which can compete and beat anyone in the world. Billy comes directly from the U20s where he has shown great awareness and international skills. Brandon, after travelling with the team last year, has proved he can step up and has made massive improvements throughout this year.
The Guadiana River venue promises a challenging competition, requiring a wide range of angling techniques such as long pole, short pole, slider fishing, and whip. Success will depend on quick thinking and what Downes describes as a “bagging mentality.” The U25 squad will compete alongside Angling Trust’s Guru England U15 and Beechfield England U20 teams.
Mérida can be a prolific venue where a whole range of skills can be required. What we’re seeing now are the benefits of the England Talent Pathway and strong management of our youth teams. By the time anglers reach the U25 level, they often have as much as eight years of World Championship experience. This is invaluable when it comes to winning medals at world level.
The World Youth Championships will undoubtedly test the skills and resilience of these young anglers as they aim to bring home medals for England on one of Europe’s most challenging fishing venues. The event takes place on the 8th and 9th of August.
