THERE'S nothing like feeling you're on your final chance to sharpen your mind.

Avila College student Hannah Fassioms, this week's Sports Star, kicked her way into the national junior taekwondo team to do battle in world titles in Turkey next month.

It was the 16-year-old's last eligible opportunity to make the junior team, but she grabbed it with both fists, scoring two wins out of two in this year's national titles.

A competitor for just three years, Fassioms feels she's earned the spot through hard work.

She is driven one hour from her Endeavour Hills home to the aptly named Power House club in Campbellfield four days a week for training.

She says she feels a compelling adrenalin rush when she goes in to combat, but a cool head in the heat of battle is the most important attribute.

"A lot of it is mental sport - how you get over the bruises."

Last year, Fassioms won an international competition in Singapore against lesser competitors than she'll face next month.

She admitted she'd be surprised to win gold against the sharp Korean and Chinese Taipei competitors.

"I've learnt they like to fight in close. They don't fight the same as in Australia."

But not all of Fassioms' challenges are on the playing mat. After Taekwondo Victoria chipped in with $25,000, Fassioms has to raise about $2000 to make next month's trip to Turkey.

To help sponsor Fassioms' trip, call Stephen on 0438534038.

Sports Star of the Week nominees are always sought. If you know someone who has achieved or coached at a high level, contact The Journal at journal@fairfax.com.au or call 92387777. Weekly winners are invited to take part in the Sports Star of the Year awards which encompass all Fairfax Community Network titles.