LUDLOW golf star Emily Price reckons her first national team medal can become a career milestone.

The 17-year-old, a member of Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club, was selected to represent England at the European Team Championships in Helsinki, Finland, earlier this month.

England claimed bronze after with a third-place play-off victory over France and Price, who recently completed her AS Levels at Millfield College, believes having a medal around her neck will stand her in good stead as she prepares for upcoming tournaments.

“It was really good to gain that experience,” said Price. “I had my parents and golf coach there and it was just awesome to play in a team environment where the spirit was so high.

“It’s different from playing in an individual tournament and representing my country in such a high-quality event – with the best players in Europe – is something I’ll never forget.

“Last time we came fifth, so to finish third felt pretty special. To walk away with a bronze medal which I’ll have for the rest of my life is something I’ll look back on and feel very proud of.”

Price now heads to Vienna for some psychological coaching before competing in the English Girls’ Championship.

Her recent success follows on from a consistent season which saw her claim four national titles, including the English Women’s Stroke Play Championship where she became one of the youngest girls to win the event.

“I’ve just got to keep playing and do my best to try to repeat my consistency this year,” said Price.

“Next year I’m hopefully off to America to play college golf for four years to try to get on the Women’s LPGA Tour. That’s what I’m working towards.”

In her quest to become a top-level golfer, Price will be aided by being part of the SSE Next Generation programme for the second year running.

She will be one of 50 athletes to gain financial support and recognition with world and Olympic cycling champion Katie Archibald among their alumni.

Price will be supported in everything from travel costs to lifestyle management through different workshops run throughout the year and is delighted to gain a place on the programme, which this year works across 24 different sports.

“I come from a working-class family and have five younger siblings,” said Price. “Playing golf isn't something that is easy for my parents to finance with all of the coaching, travel and tournaments I need.

“SSE’s sponsorship enables me to play in a couple of extra tournaments each season which I wouldn't normally be able to do. This means I have more of an opportunity to gain experience and prove my ability as a golfer.”

Since 2013, SSE is proud to make a difference to young people, their families and their communities by investing in the future of sporting talent through the SSE Next Generation scheme. Keep up to date @YourSSE