Congratulations to BLAKE METE the 2022/23 Indigenous Athlete of the Year
This award is given to an athlete who not only performs well in their sport but also gives back to the community.
Blake has not only excelled throughout BMX this year, but he also works with his community and is a selfless individual. Blake coaches younger athletes as well as volunteering at local club events.
Blake’s leadership qualities are one of his greatest strengths.
At club level, Blake is dominating the Pro rider division. Younger kids look up to him and admire him as a leader and inspiration.
“Blake has shown exceptional leadership skills as team captain. For an individual sport, he demonstrates what a team player can still do. He supports and encourages other riders to try new things or to reach their potential.” (Clara Mete)
The Illawarra Academy of Sport Indigenous Talent Program (ITP) provides increased and specific sporting opportunities for Indigenous athletes within the IAS catchment of Shoalhaven, Wingecarribee, Shellharbour, Kiama and Wollongong.
The program will provide talented athletes from within the IAS programs to increased level of support to enable their sporting progress. Athletes will have access to leading Aboriginal sports people from the district to assist, support and inspire them in their development. Additional support surrounding one’s culture, support mechanisms between fellow indigenous athletes, access to training opportunities and guidance on how best to progress through the sporting pathways are just some of the services offered to athletes.
