Rail travel to national squad training sessions in Cardiff will be provided for the youngsters, who play at Mold Sports Centre.

Natalie Griffiths said: "It is a great honour to be selected for the national squad.

"It is a big financial commitment for our families to support us, therefore the assistance we will receive with our travel arrangements is going to be of great help financially."

Squad members Bethan and Lowri Barker are delighted. Bethan said: "We train three times a week after school, so going to Cardiff by train is going to be more relaxing for us. It will also allow us to travel together as a team."

Lowri added: "We would previously have had to take a few cars so we're pleased that this sponsorship is going to benefit the environment."

Geraint Morgan, community affairs manager for Arriva Trains Wales, said: "The girls' selection for the national squad is a real credit to them and a demonstration of what can be achieved through de dication and commitment.

"We're delighted to be helping them with their travel arrangements and wish them every success while representing Wales in the future.

"They have done really well to get this far, lets hope it continues."

Twenty-two players selected for the Under 17 netball squad are preparing for the European Championships that will be held in Gibraltar during 2009.

Matches have also been played against the national sides of England, Scotland, Malta, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.