Van Hooijdonk will play against the UK's teenage elite in the badminton event, being held at the Welsh Institute of Sport in Cardiff from 3 - 6 September.

"Achieving a place at the UK School Games is a significant step in the career of any young badminton athlete. I am delighted for Dan," said Donna Kellogg.

"The UK School Games helps to prepare young sports stars for major world events such as the Commonwealth and Olympic games.

"With an Opening Ceremony, Closing Ceremony and Athletes' Village the Games will be a thrilling experience for Dan and his fellow competitors," she said.

Van Hooijdonk is a student at Pontarddulais Comprehensive and trains on court twice a day with an additional fitness session every Sunday, to keep his badminton skills at a nationally competitive level. He also plays tennis, basketball, athletics and swims to heighten his fitness.

This is the third year that Van Hooijdonk has competed in the UK School Games with 2008 seeing him win silver.

"It's a great feeling to be involved in the UK School Games again. I did win a silver medal in the mixed event last year," said Van Hooijdonk.

"It's a fun experience getting to know all the other teams from all sports across the countries. I enjoy playing most sports, I like to think of myself as the sporting type."

"This will be my last year at the UK School Games so I hope it's a good one," he said.