Sarah Mason, 15, of Hedworth, Jarrow, plays ice hockey for the national under-16 team and is pinning her hopes on a chance to compete in the 2010 Winter Olympics, in Vancouver.

Over the years she has endured broken bones and sacrificed her free time for the pursuit of greatness.

And because the sport is not supported by Sport England, the teenager is forsaking Christmas and birthday presents, asking for cash instead she puts toward following her dream.

Now Asda in South Shields has backed the Boldon School pupil by donating £500 as part of its 'Sporting Chance' programme, which is aimed at making sport more accessible for kids under 16.

Mavis Maughan, store co-ordinator at Asda in South Shields, said: "Sporting Chance raises money through a range of in-store fundraising activities such as raffles, competitions and bag-packing events. These funds are then distributed to Sarah via our head office.

"We're pleased to backing Sarah. She's a local girl and we hope she goes on to do really well."

Sarah has been playing ice-hockey for six years after discovering the sport, by chance, during a trip to her local ice rink.

She said her passion for hockey developed because of its excitement and the adrenaline rush.

Sarah will use the cash to help pay for equipment and costs. She regularly trains at Newcastle Arena and Whitley Bay Ice Rink and is completely dedicated to her sport.

Proud mum, Sue, a funding officer at South Tyneside College, said: "Sarah has stuck at the sport and overcome a lot. She has really gone from zero to hero."

Sarah added: "I'm really pleased I've been picked for the sponsorship. Hockey is my life and I hope to be playing even when I'm really old - even if I have to get on the ice."

Her long-term ambitions are to excel in the sport and represent her country at the highest level in what she hopes will be a long and successful career.