Eastleigh lad and Saints fan Jack Goodchild has been chosen to represent the England ice hockey team in Canada next February.

The 12-year-old will play in the world’s largest junior under 13 tournament with 120 teams from around the world.

The two-week trip includes outdoor games and even games in a shopping mall, but the highlight will be the match at the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City, which holds 16,000 people.

Jack has been playing since he was five, and has turned out for Basingstoke, Bracknell and, currently, Slough.

He has represented the South West on three occasions which included trips to Holland and France.

Dad Darren said: “He goes to Saint Mary’s when he can, but the ice hockey takes up a lot of his time.

“But he will always look for the scores wherever he is, even on the ice.

“Jack hopes to show that even with a lack of ice rinks in the south dreams can be achieved.

“There is very little funding for this so if anyone is interested in sponsorship for Jack or the team it would be greatly appreciated.”

Anyone wishing to help with sponsorship can contact Darren at dsgoody@btinternet.co.uk.