A talented teenage ice hockey player from Bedale is proving that resilience and determination can overcome even the toughest setbacks – both on and off the ice.
Leighton Wilkinson, 17, is a Level 3 Criminology student at Darlington College and plays semi-professionally for the Billingham Buccaneers, as well as representing England in showcase competitions.
However, recent months have tested his resolve. After suffering a serious leg injury last October that sidelined him until January, Leighton broke his wrist shortly after returning to play.
“I’ve suffered one injury after another,” said Leighton.
“Last October I suffered a leg injury and was out until January and as soon as I returned I broke my wrist. It’s been mentally challenging to keep going with the sport, but with the resilience I’ve gained from playing all these years I’ve managed to come back.”
Leighton first took up ice hockey at the age of seven and says the sport has helped shape his discipline, determination and mental strength. His perseverance has paid off, with an impressive return to form this season.
In just 10 games, he has scored nine goals and provided four assists, becoming a key attacking player for the Buccaneers. He has also progressed through the club’s ranks from U14s to U19s, captaining the side twice and serving as assistant captain on four occasions.
During his U16s season, Leighton was selected for the England showcase team, competing in a tournament where top players were identified to represent England and Great Britain.
His U19s head coach, Michael Johnson, praised Leighton’s commitment and development following his injuries.
“I have witnessed Leighton recover from his injuries by working hard to regain his fitness level, mobility and also his shot selection and accuracy,” he said.
“All of this has accelerated Leighton’s progression to the player he has become this season. He has broken into the Buccaneers D2 Senior squad and has scored his first goal already.”
Coach Johnson added that Leighton’s work ethic and attitude mark him out as a player with real potential.
“On practice sessions, Leighton puts in 100 per cent every time and is a very coachable member of the U19s squad. During games he has earned his line one forward position and shows great awareness of the game. He also gives advice to younger teammates, passing on his knowledge to help them improve.”
He believes it may not be long before Leighton attracts interest from the Billingham Stars and earns selection for the club’s D1 squad.
Away from the rink, Leighton is also excelling academically. Neil Parry, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Level 3 Criminology, Policing and Law at Darlington College, said balancing elite sport with study is no easy task.
“Leighton has managed to balance his academic studies with his commitment to ice hockey extremely well,” he said.
“He is keen to pursue a career in criminal law and has recently explored a scholarship opportunity with Stephenson Harwood, an international law firm. He is hoping to enrol on a three-year undergraduate law degree.”
Andrew Manners, Darlington College’s TASS Dual Career Coordinator, added: “Leighton is just one of many talented athletes we support at Darlington College. We look forward to continuing to help him succeed in both his academic studies and his exciting ice hockey career.”
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