Just before the Michaelmas term drew to a close, the Thai Lecture Theatre was buzzing with anticipation as pupils from Year 7 through to Year 13 gathered to welcome back two familiar faces to Trent. Old Tridents Freddie McCann (class of 2023) and Byron Hatton-Lowe (class of 2025), now both playing at Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, returned to campus to share their journeys from school cricket to the professional game.

Rising through the ranks of the Notts Academy to the heights of 1st XI, Freddie and Byron have also represented England at Under-19 level.  Freddie spoke candidly about the dedication and discipline required to progress to the highest levels of the game. Alongside Byron, he reflected warmly on his time at Trent College, emphasising the strong sense of community, the friendships formed, and the invaluable experiences gained through being part of a committed and ambitious cricket programme.

Both shared how proud they are to have completed their Sixth Form years at Trent and how much they miss the unique atmosphere of campus life. Despite the demands of professional cricket, they spoke passionately about the importance of staying connected and contributing to the Trent community as alumni.

Freddie told us: “When people ask what school did you go to? We're proud to say that we came to Trent College”

“Coming back, it brings back so many memories, especially playing the games, and seeing our teachers, just catching up and talking about our experiences in class and outside the classroom; there’s a lot of stuff you’d like to hold onto for the future that maybe you’ve not quite remembered, until you come back”.

The session quickly became an engaging conversation, with pupils asking thoughtful and wide-ranging questions. From winter training schedules and the realities of life as a professional athlete, to batting versus bowling preferences and favourite memories of their time at Trent, Freddie and Byron offered honest, insightful answers that brought the world of professional cricket vividly to life.

Freddie said: “Getting more people into the game, boys and girls, is probably the main reason that we wanted to come back and talk to the pupils.”

Byron added “Definitely, speaking to the different age groups, especially the younger [pupils] who have probably not made their minds up what they want to do, whatever route they want to go down, sport or not, just to hear someone’s point of view might help them.”

The visit concluded on a special note, as Head of Cricket, Mr Boswell, took Freddie and Byron to the Sports Hall of Fame. There, their shirts are proudly displayed above the stairs in the sports hall, a powerful reminder to pupils every day of what dedication, teamwork and perseverance can achieve.

Thank you, Freddie and Byron, for returning to Trent and for inspiring the next generation of Old Tridents. Their continued connection with the school is a wonderful example of the strength and spirit of our alumni.

Byron (centre) receiving his Cricket 'Baggy' in 2024 with Head Bill Penty and visiting OT Freddie McCann