Sedgefield waterpolo player Angela Winstanley-Smith is being tipped for the top after breaking into the senior international squad aged just 15.
Angela, of Newton Aycliffe, is already a junior international and is the youngest person ever to be invited to join the senior women's Great Britain squad.
George Carpenter, her coach at Sedgefield 75 Swimming Club, believes Angela is a "massive talent" with a big future.
He said: "Angela is recognised now as one of the most exciting junior talents in the world.
"This is a considerable compliment when you consider that in the likes of Hungary, Spain Italy and Russia, waterpolo is a massive sport.
Angela has also been picked to swim for Great Britain in Germany in December and she has now set her sights on competing in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
Despite her promising future, Angela receives very little financial help and is looking for sponsors to help her achieve her dream.
Anyone who would like to sponsor Angela can contact George Carpenter on (01325) 484040
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