The Regional Academies are fortunate to receive strong support from all their respective Members of Parliament within the NSW Government. Academies work diligently to ensure their local Members are kept informed of athlete achievements and Academy initiatives.
On Tuesday 19th September a Parliamentary Reception was held in recognition of the role of NSW Regional Academies of Sport Incorporated and their outstanding young athletes, from across NSW.
Held in the Strangers Lounge at NSW Parliament House in Sydney, it was a great chance to have all 11 RASi Academies together, for local Members to show their support for Academy athletes in person and for the athletes to meet their respective Members and chat about their goals and achievements along the way.
The Speaker of the House and Member for South Coast, The Hon. Shelley Hancock MP, hosted the function which was also attended by many members of parliament including The Hon. Stuart Ayres MP, The Minister for Sport, Ryan Park, MP, Member for Keira and Paul Scully, MP, Member for Wollongong.
Also present were young representatives from each Academy, their parents and various Academy stakeholders, giving everyone a great opportunity to interact.
Representing IAS was 2017 IAS Illawarra Mercury Tobin Award Winner and Commonwealth Youth Games Rugby 7’s Gold Medalist Abby Holmes. Abby was also the Guest Speaker who provided the Members of Parliament, Athletes, Parents and stakeholders and insight into her incredible year and what it was like to compete at the Commonwealth Youth Games.
The Academy would like to thank all stakeholders, sponsors and respective dignitaries who were present on behalf of the Illawarra Academy of Sport. Their attendance and ongoing support is greatly appreciated.
