Ice-hockey queen dedicated to sport

Great Britain ice-hockey goalkeeper Nicole Jackson, who also coaches the England under-16s team

A HOME-GROWN ice-hockey star has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award for her dedication to the sport.

Great Britain goalkeeper Nicole Jackson has spent the past 15 years determinedly rising up the ranks.

The 22 year old, from Chadderton, regularly travels across the country to train and play for teams including Widnes Wild, Sheffield Steel Dogs and Hull-based Kingston Diamonds.

As well as representing her country around the word, Nicole also coaches the under-16s ice-hockey team for England, travelling to Hull and back for the role.

She has just completed her final year of a degree in sports and exercise science at Bolton University, and is studying for a coaching qualification. She also helps to mentor a young man with Down’s Syndrome.

Her proud mum Pauline, from Chadderton, nominated Nicole and said: “She started playing roller hockey when she was eight then took up ice hockey at 14. She has really dedicated her life to the sport.

“She is still young but has achieved so much, and has given up a lot to achieve it.”

Nicole was stunned to be nominated: “I don’t know what to say — it’s crazy to be nominated,” she said.

“I love what I do and do what I can to help anyone else. It has given me a lot of opportunities a to travel and meet new people.

“Growing up I had to learn a lot myself through watching videos, so my idea is to give back to the next generation of players. I’ve probably only got around five years left playing at international level, but I know whatever my future holds, it will be in sport.”

email: beatrizayala@oldham-chronicle.co.uk