Teenage electrical apprentice Ethan Daintith is celebrating a huge sporting milestone after being called up to the Senior Men’s Great Britain Ball Hockey squad.
At just 19, Ethan is balancing elite-level sport with his career as a Level 3 Installation Maintenance Electrician apprentice at Hull Training and Adult Education (HTAE).
Alongside his apprenticeship, Ethan plays ice hockey for Hull Jets in the National Ice Hockey League Division 1 North – the second-highest level of ice hockey in the UK – who are based at Hull Ice Arena.
Having skated from a young age and impressed throughout the ice season with the Jets, Ethan expanded into ball hockey and quickly made his mark.
After previously representing England Under‑19s and GB Students at ice hockey and then Great Britain Under‑23s, at ball hockey, he has now earned a well‑deserved call‑up to the senior GB squad.
Ethan will be part of the squad heading to Ostrava, Czechia, to represent Team GB in the ISBHF Men’s World Championships.
Team GB are in Group B and will face Cayman Islands, Austria, Germany, India and France over consecutive days from Saturday 20 June.
Speaking about the call‑up, Ethan said: “I really wasn’t expecting it, so it was a massive surprise. It’s an amazing feeling to be selected to represent Team GB again, especially at senior level.
“It’s a step up from the age groups I’ve played in before, but I’m really looking forward to the challenge and heading out to Czechia.”
Luke Browne, head coach of the Great Britain Men’s Ball Hockey Team, praised Ethan’s progression: “I’ve worked with Ethan through the GB Under‑23s programme and have seen his development first‑hand.
“He’s had an excellent ice season with the Hull Jets and his consistency, professionalism and commitment have earned him this opportunity.
“Moving from Under‑23s to senior international level is never guaranteed – it must be earned. Ethan’s work ethic and team‑first attitude meet the standards we expect, and we’re excited to see him represent Great Britain at the highest level.”
Away from sport, Ethan is completing his apprenticeship while working for Paragon ID at Sutton Fields. He credits both HTAE and his employer for supporting him to succeed in work and sport.
“Becoming an electrician is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Ethan explained.
“My grandad was an electrician, and I used to help him with small jobs growing up. Watching him really inspired me to follow in his footsteps.
“When I left school, someone recommended the electrical apprenticeship route at HTAE, so I kept an eye out for vacancies.
“Finding that opportunity wasn’t easy at first, so when I was offered the chance to learn on the job and earn at the same time, it was a proud moment.
“My dad works at Paragon ID as a graphic designer, so we’re keeping it in the family!”
Reflecting on his apprenticeship experience, Ethan added: “I’ve had the same tutor, Gareth Dixon, for four years, and he’s been brilliant – always taking time to support you one‑to‑one.
“HTAE and Paragon ID have been great in supporting both my career and my sport. I’d recommend an apprenticeship to others. You gain real experience, practical skills, qualifications and earn money, all while doing something you enjoy.”
To find out more about apprenticeships and adult learning opportunities with Hull Training and Adult Education, visit Hull Training and Adult Education – HCC Training.