YORK teenage sensation Nicola Parry has reached a new high in her rapid rise to rugby league stardom.

The 18-year-old three-quarter, who plays for York Acorn Ladies, has been picked for the Great Britain squad to go to the women's World Cup in New Zealand next month.

As reported by the Evening Press earlier this year, the then 17-year-old made her way through England Under-21 squad - effectively the Great Britain U21s - and into the full GB squad. Her aim was then to be selected for the World Cup and that goal has been achieved - though it came as a shock.

"It was definitely a bolt out of the blue," she told the Evening Press. "I know I've been in the Great Britain squad but I was not expecting to be picked for New Zealand. It was still a shock to me and my family."

Great Britain have been installed as second favourites to lift the Cup, in which ten countries are competing, with New Zealand the favourites and Australia also up there. And Parry reckoned they could return with the trophy.

"It's going to be really tough, New Zealand are a lot bigger than us, but I think we can do it," she said.

Parry's selection completes a quick-fire double triumph for the teenager as she is also set to receive a diploma after passing her York Technical College two-year course in public services, which will help her hopes of joining the police force.

The squad travel to New Zealand from September 20 to October 14 and, as the women's game is entirely amateur, Parry is hoping to get more sponsorship to help finance her trip. Anyone interested is asked to contact her on 01904 785882.

Updated: 11:31 Wednesday, August 06, 2003