Lou Porter: Henley Hero

Shiplake’s own Lou Porter has been awarded Most Inspiring Individual in the 2018 Henley Heroes.

Lou joined Shiplake College at the end of August 2012, and has been the heart and soul of Gilson House since becoming Matron. She coaches Nettlebed’s village netball team, The Stingers and runs a programme to reintroduce players to the sport which she loves so much. 

Two fellow avid netball players nominated her for the award, one of whom did so after losing an incredible four stone thanks to Lou’s coaching and encouragement. The award sponsor, Mr Alan Pontin from Henley, was so impressed by her contributions to life in Henley that he agreed to sponsor The Stingers for the next year.

Lou said: “It was so unexpected and I’m sure there are more deserving candidates but it shows that all the hard work and effort I’ve put in has been worth it. It shows that my passion for the sport is shining through and that hopefully I’m not doing a bad job!

“I love netball so much and it has been wonderful to see it go from strength to strength. We’re looking to start another team because there’s so much demand and I’d love to launch a youth group as well.”

Head of Learning Development and Housemaster of Gilson Annemarie Higgins said:

‘The whole House is so very proud of Lou Porter for wining a Henley Heroes award. As Gilson House Matron she is a pivotal member of the House team. Her award is for being ‘inspirational’ and she is certainly an inspiration to me, the House staff and the girls, on a daily basis. She has a positive, ‘can-do’ approach to life and we are delighted that her hard work, enthusiasm and seemingly non-exhaustive drive, has been recognised. Well done Lou; we love you.’

Lou posted a picture of her award on Facebook with the comment 

Very unexpected, totally overwhelmed, thank you Stingers, Henley Hero’s Award