Wigan student surprised by Gary Neville with UA92 scholarship
Yasmin Baker, a talented shot put athlete and student at St John Rigby College, has been awarded a full tuition scholarship to study a Sports Journalism Honours Degree and had a shock when she found out who was handing it over to her
A Wigan student has been awarded a full tuition scholarship after receiving the news from former Manchester United and England footballer Gary Neville.
Yasmin Baker, who recently completed her A-levels at St John Rigby College, has secured a scholarship to study a Sports Journalism Honours Degree at UA92, the university academy co-founded by members of Manchester United’s Class of '92.
Yasmin was presented with the news in person, with Gary Neville handing her an envelope revealing that she had been awarded the scholarship.
Recalling the moment, Yasmin said: “Suddenly just in the corner of my eye Gary Neville walks in, I immediately froze.”
“It was amazing!”
The scholarship covers all three years of Yasmin’s tuition as she takes the next step in her education at UA92 in Manchester.
Yasmin was one of two students recognised for their determination and hard work, with both securing scholarships to support their next steps in education.
The news comes as Orrell St John Rigby College has also become a TASS (Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme)-accredited site, allowing the college to provide additional support to talented athletes and help them balance their sporting commitments with their education.
Yasmin is also a talented shot put athlete and member of Wigan Harriers.
She regularly competes at a high level and has enjoyed success at major competitions, including winning gold earlier this year at the England Athletics Indoor Championships.
St John Rigby College shared it's congratulations with Yasmin following the announcement, saying: “We are incredibly proud of Yasmin and so excited to see her take her next steps and continue achieving incredible things.”
Being a TASS Accredited Site means more students can access support while continuing to develop their sporting talent alongside their education, helping them progress towards their chosen university.
Yasmin’s scholarship marks the latest step in her educational and sporting journey as she prepares to begin her Sports Journalism degree in Manchester.