Glasgow School of Sport at Bellahouston Academy has announced its largest ever representation for Team Scotland at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Eight women and four men will represent the host nation in badminton, gymnastics, hockey, swimming and triathlon.

Returning competitors, including swimmer Michael Jamieson, badminton player Kirsty Gilmour, gymnast Amy Regan and hockey players Kenny Bain, Amy Gibson and William Marshall will be aiming for further commonwealth success.

While Gymnasts Cara Kennedy and Carly Smith, badminton players Caitlin Pringle and Rebekka Findlay, triathlete David McNamee and hockey player Susan McGilveray are all making their Commonwealth Games debut.

This is the largest and strongest representation from Glasgow School of Sport and the school is very proud of its pupils.

Angela Porter, Director of Glasgow School of Sport, said: “We’re delighted to have played a part in the journey of these twelve young people to the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

“They have worked tirelessly to achieve their success. All are committed and determined to make Scotland proud. I am thrilled for them.”

Ian Anderson, Head Teacher at Glasgow School of Sport, said: “Their selection is a tribute to not only the athletes themselves but to the coaches and staff at the Glasgow School of Sport and Bellahouston Academy.”

Leading achievements of graduates include Michael Jamieson Olympic and Commonwealth silver medalist, Kirsty Gilmour the No.1 British Women’s Singles player ranked 18th in the world, hockey players William Marshall with over 100 caps for his country and prolific goal scorer Kenny Bain.

Gymnasts Cara Kennedy and Carly Smith are in their final year at school and faced the challenges of competing with each other for a place in the team.

Gymnast Cara Kennedy, said: “Thankfully, we’ve both been selected. It’s been tough but the School of Sport has supported us well. I’ve been able to balance my school-work with all the extra training and preparation. The School of Sport coach, Sandra Walsh, has been with us every step of the way, and that’s a huge help.”

Archie Graham, Chair of Glasgow Life and Executive Committee Member for the Commonwealth Games, said “This National Centre of Excellence has helped develop and nurture some of Scotland’s top young athletes and sports stars, such as Michael Jamieson.

“We wish all 12 athletes every success at the Games. They will be an inspiration to the next generation of young sporting stars as they have shown that with a lot of hard work and determination you can achieve your sporting aspirations.”

Team Scotland’s Chef de Mission, Jon Doig, congratulated the 12 pupils and graduates, saying: “The school of sport has been supporting young talented athletes since 1999 and the record number representing Team Scotland in the XX Commonwealth Games really shows the value of these types of programmes.

“A significant number of the Glasgow School of Sport pupils have competed at Commonwealth Youth level. Seven of the school’s athletes debuted in the full Commonwealth Games in Delhi 2010 and the experience they have gained since then bodes well for Glasgow 2014. They will be joined by a further six athletes from the school making their debut on home soil.”