FRINTON’S Jonah Thomas is set to play volleyball at this year’s UK School Games.

The Tendring Technology College pupil has been picked to represent England Central at the multi-sport event in Sheffield.

The 16-year-old said: “I’m very pleased to have been selected and am looking forward to the opportunity.

“I was lucky enough to watch both the beach and indoor volleyball at the London Olympics.

“Both events inspired me to do better and improve as much as I could.

“I haven’t competed at the UK School Games before.

“This is the biggest achievement of my career so far and my aim is to perform to the best of my ability.

“I’m also looking forward to meeting all of the other volleyball athletes,” he said.

Thomas, along with all the other competitors, has received words of encouragement from England football legend and Sainsbury’s Active Kids ambassador David Beckham.

“Jonah should be incredibly proud of being selected to compete in the Sainsbury’s 2013 School Games,” said the former Manchester Unietd hero.

“To be given the chance to compete in a multi-sport event and experience a major sporting occasion like this is a huge opportunity for these young people.

“I wish everyone the best of luck and encourage them to enjoy every minute.”

Thomas will not be the only person flying the flag for Tendring Volleyball Club at the Games.

Clacton’s Georgia and Bethany Ibbotson and Fran Smith-Daye will be joined by Frinton-based Jessica Lane at the prestigious event, after being chosen to represent England Central.

Tendring chairman Alex Porter will be head coach of the England South boys’ team, in Sheffield.

And Porter confirmed that Thomas will be playing National League division one volleyball for Tendring’s senior team next season – a high level that boasts a number of former international players.

The Games, which are supported by National Lottery funding from Sport England and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust, will see more than 1,600 potential future sports stars competing across 12 sports between September 12 and 15.