TWO Droitwich Spa girls are jetting off to the USA this summer to improve their sporting skills.

Rachel Harrison and Joanne Dudley, both students at the Briar Mill school's sixth form, are visiting Ball State University, in Muncie, Indiana, for a ten-day research trip, starting on Monday, August 19.

Together with their PE teacher, Heather Fox, the pair will study the American coaching and teaching methods of gymnastics, ladies' football and cheerleading.

The trip is part of an exchange programme with two students visiting Droitwich next summer.

Rachel and Joanne won their places by writing to the Director of Sport at Droitwich Spa High School, outlining why they thought they would be suitable candidates for the all expenses paid trip.

In return for their places, the girls have to provide at least 20 hours of coaching to their fellow students in the autumn term and give a presentation showing ways English sport could learn from its American counterparts.

Rachel recently organised a mini Commonwealth Games event at the school.

She said: "I am excited and nervous but really looking forward to it. I can't actually believe we are going yet."

Joanne added: "This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about our chosen sports. It is going to be fascinating to see how American teachers and students work."