YOUNG sportsman Owen Bracegirdle has been nominated for an award by his head teacher.

Owen, aged nine, is a member of a number of sports clubs at Kingsfield First School in Biddulph.

And now headteacher Dr Jason Phillips has nominated him in the Bright Young Thing category of the Staffordshire Moorlands Community Awards for his 'good sportsmanship and determination.'

Dr Phillips said: "I have nominated Owen for the award because of his ability in sport especially in hockey where he shows skill, flair and a tactical mind.

"His ability extends to other sports but is especially strong in hockey.

"Owen is also an exceptionally caring, polite and wonderful member of our school community."

Owen began playing hockey at the age of seven in school. He said: "I really enjoy playing hockey and often practice at home.

"I play hockey both in PE class and at the after school club. Sarah Ralphs, the Staffordshire County hockey coach and goal keeper for the Cannock team has been into school to teach us hockey techniques.

"It was good because she taught us how to flip the ball over another player's stick, how to run with the ball and how to do strong hits."

Although Owen excels in playing hockey he admitted: "My favourite sport is football with cricket and then hockey after that."