Table tennis ace Stacey Furnival represents England in the Home Under-12s International in Dublin this weekend.
The Sussex champion, believes it will be the biggest few days of her young life.
She said: "I'm excited and nervous. It doesn't seem real. My friends were shocked when I told them.
"It is the biggest thing that has happened to me and I will do my best."
The Grove pupil, from Hastings, who won county singles titles at under-12s and under-14s, will be accompanied by her parents Lyn and Andy.
Mum Lyn said: "We are so proud of her. We have received a some backing from Hollington and the English Association to help towards the costs for which we are grateful. It should be a good weekend."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article