Trio In Contention for Young Sports Star Honour

Three young athletes smiling for a photo.
Image caption: The three contenders are in the running for this year's award.

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English soccer star Michelle Agyemang, darts prodigy Luke Littler and batswoman Davina Perrin have been named as finalists for the upcoming Young Sports Star of the Year award.

The three finalists have been celebrated for their outstanding achievements over the past 12 months.

Agyemang was instrumental as the Lionesses win Euro 2025, Littler claimed the world title for the first time, and Perrin rose to fame with a historic innings.

Littler was the recipient in 2024 after his remarkable rise.

The shortlisted athletes were announced live on a national radio breakfast show.

The champion will be unveiled on the prestigious sports ceremony show on Thursday, 18 December.

The ceremony will be broadcast from seven in the evening GMT.

The Football Star

Age: 19 Sport: Football

Just three months after her international debut, Agyemang played a pivotal and thrilling role in England's run to European Championship victory.

She entered the fray to score vital last-gasp goals in both the knockout stage games.

Agyemang's stunning interventions led to her being named Young Player of the Tournament.

Subsequently, she was awarded the Golden Girl trophy for the best young player in Europe.

She was also in contention for the Kopa Trophy for the world's best under-21 female player.

Agyemang, who has been playing for Brighton on loan from Arsenal, ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in October.

"To be named a finalist for this award is incredible," said Agyemang. "Thank you to God and I'm thankful for the support I've received from my loved ones, mentors, colleagues and supporters."

The Darts Prodigy

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

Littler kicked off the year in sensational style as - while still 17 - he became the most youthful world title winner in history.

He secured a dominant victory over Michael van Gerwen in the final.

His later win at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth player to complete the prestigious triple crown of major titles.

And he wasn't finished there - his victory at November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he reached world number one for the very first time.

At 18, he is the youngest man to do so, breaking the previous record.

"To receive a nomination for the honour once more is a huge privilege," stated Littler. "My victory in 2024 was a proud moment for me and I've had another amazing 12 months. I want to continue elevating darts."

Perrin's Profile

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's most exciting young talents and surged to prominence with an remarkable and historic innings in August.

Her sublime 42-ball century in The Hundred is the fastest by an English woman in T20s.

It also stands as the joint third-fastest women's T20 century in a major league or full member T20 international.

Perrin finished second in the batting rankings and was named the Professional Cricketers' Association's top young women's player.

"I'm truly honoured to be named a finalist for the young athlete award," expressed Perrin. "It means a great deal. I hope it encourages more girls to get into cricket."

Media caption: Memorable speeches from across SPOTY history.
Abigail Rose
Abigail Rose

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