A Billingham teenager has proven he’s on the ball after being selected to represent Great Britain at his sport.

Ross Beall, 16, will join the Team GB under-20s squad at the International Street & Ball Hockey Federation (ISBHF) Junior World Championships taking place in Sheffield later this year.

“Playing with the under-20s is a big step up for me,” said Ross who previously qualified for the Team GB Under-16s in 2015.

But looking forward to the challenge he said: “It is a good feeling to know that you are representing your country.”

Ross, who started out as an ice hockey player, was introduced to ball hockey in early 2014 as a way of improving his game skills on the ice.

The Creative Arts & Media student, who is currently studying at The Skills Academy in Billingham, quickly discovered that he preferred playing on foot.

Now a regular with the Durham Ninjas, Ross, who also trains alongside the Stanley Stingers, has his sights set on a place travelling the world with the Team GB main squad.

In training for the Junior World Championships this July he said: “Playing in the under-20s team means that I will have to be strong and fast.

“The game is about agility, speed, shot power and accuracy, which means you have to make sure you always have your head in the game.

“It is intense but you have the pride of knowing you will be wearing the Team GB shirt.”

Ross is currently looking for sponsorship to help cover the cost of travel, accommodation and insurance, during the ISBHF Junior World Championships. If you would like to sponsor Ross email: marketing@stockton.ac.uk