A Bury College University Centre student is enjoying travelling the world as she combines learning with her sporting commitments.

Nicole Jackson is currently playing for the ice hockey team Manchester Minotaurs, as well as for Kingston Diamond Ladies Ice Hockey Team.

The 21-year-old, from Chadderton, also has the honour of playing for the Great Britain ice hockey team and is looking forward to taking part in the world championships in Italy next year.

The Sports Science and Coaching Foundation Degree (FdSc) student has clocked up air miles by travelling to Canada, America, Italy, Finland, Hungry, France and China to compete in a range of competitions. To prepare for her games, it is essential that Nicole trains up to six times a week, concentrating on games and gym workouts.

Nicole, who plays the Goaltender position, said: “I have been playing ice hockey for so long that it is literally like a drug, when I have time away from it I get withdrawals but at the same time I feel ready for a rest.”

As well as enjoying ice hockey games and competitions, Nicole has a future career goal and hopes her university studies will help to reach it.

She added: “My overall aim is to be a strength and conditioning coach. My course at Bury College University Centre is good and it is great that my tutor supports me in working my timetable around my GB duties.”