Braehead Clan's Matt Haywood says it's a dream come true to be called up for the Great Britain World Championship squad next month.
The forward has capped a magnificent season with a spot in coach Pete Russell's 23-man team that's going to Eindhoven next month.
But Haywood, who's been with the Clan since 2010, admits he was surprised team-mate Ben Davies didn't make the final cut.
He said: "It's a dream come true to be getting the opportunity to play for my country. Any sportsman will jump at the chance and I'm certainly no different.
"I've grown up playing with most of the guys and I was in the preliminary squad last year so I have a fair idea of what to expect.
"It feels amazing and my family are so proud. They've told me not to put too much pressure on myself and to enjoy it.
"I found out on Tuesday when I received an email from the team manager, Andy Buxton and it will great to work with Pete Russell again, who coached me in the Under 20's.
"Obviously we'd love to get the gold medal, but my immediate focus is on the play-off games with Hull Stingrays this weekend and getting to the finals weekend."
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