Fraser’s a big hit on first England call-up
THOMAS Fraser has spoken of his pride after scoring two goals on his first call-up for England, writes TONY HODGSON.
The 14-year-old Whitley Bay Junior Ice Hockey Club forward flew out to Bratislava to join a national under-15 training camp.
During his time in Slovakia the youngster took part in coaching sessions and also played in three games against an OHE Eurppe Academy team, a Slovakian select squad and a side from Sofia in Bulgaria.
England lost to the Academy - no disgrace as it comprises some of the best junior players across Europe but triumphed against Slovakia and Sofia.
Fraser - top scorer this season for the club’s under-15 side the Tomahawks - netted twice in the Sofia match.
He said: “Words cannot describe the feeling when those goals went in. I was just so proud. The trip was a fantastic experience.
“The coaching was great and I picked up so many tips on how to improve and develop my game.
“We were up against players who were older than us and had been together as squads longer than us but we did well in coping with that.
“It was my first time with the squad and my first time abroad on my own but I really enjoyed it.
“Hopefully there will be more experiences like this to come.”
Fraser’s dad Scott flew out to watch his son in action and said: “I was very pleased with how Thomas handled the whole thing.
“The squad was up against quality opposition in all of its matches but came through very well.
“Thomas did great and for him to score two goals was the icing on the cake.”
Fraser came through an arduous selection process to earn his place in the squad - but he was not the only North East player involved.
Joseph Walls, 14, from Wallsend who plays for Billingham Stars accompanied him to Bratislava.
England’s under-13s and under 14s and the under-14 and under-17 girls’ squads also took part in the training camp.