Shellharbour’s brightest young athletes were recently recognised at the Shellharbour City Council Mayoral Reception.
Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes and their parents enjoyed hearing from and meeting with Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer, and other esteemed and valued members of the Shellharbour community.
Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes Charles Alcock (16) and Lily Martin (16) spoke on behalf of the Shellharbour cohort, outlining the positive impact that the IAS has had on their sporting journey throughout the year, and thanked Shellharbour City Council for their ongoing support.
“I have been privileged enough to be a part of the IAS road/track cycling squad for the past 3 years,” Alcock said.
“Not all athletes have the opportunity to be a part of a regional academy of sport, and I am really grateful to the IAS for providing me with a scholarship.
“During my time with the IAS, I have learned so much about cycling, but more importantly than that, I have learned and grown in the values that will help me to develop as a person, not just as an athlete, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunities I have received through the IAS.
“I am excited for the coming years to build on the foundation the IAS has given me, and to continue to achieve my goals, and grow as an athlete and as a person.”
Netball umpire scholarship holder Martin said the IAS provides an opportunity for young sportspeople to grow and develop into professional athletes.
“The IAS isn’t just about being a part of your sports squad, it’s about being in a community of like-minded people who are all here to strive for their goals and to support one another,” Martin said.
“On behalf of the IAS, thank you to Shellharbour City Council for giving us emerging athletes support, recognition, and the tools we need to become successful not only as an athlete but as a person.”
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said he is proud of the Council’s commitment to developing and maintaining sports facilities across the city, and the results of this investment can be seen in the ongoing success of local sportspeople.
“We are immensely proud of our local athletes and their dedication to their chosen sports,” Mayor Homer said.
“Earning a place at the Academy is no small feat, and it’s a testament to not only the athletes’ incredible talents, but their dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
“I’m proud that our facilities and support will help these recipients achieve even more amazing things in the coming years.”
Illawarra Academy of Sport President Sharon Wingate praised the efforts of Shellharbour City Council and thanked the organisation for their contribution towards the IAS.
“Our current Illawarra Academy of Sport scholarship intake proudly comprises 290 athletes, 53 of whom are from Shellharbour, and all have benefited from the programs offered by the IAS,” Wingate said.
“As one of the six founding members, Shellharbour City Council has been a crucial contributor to the IAS, playing an integral role in helping us nurture and shape some of Australia’s most decorated athletes who call the Illawarra home.
“Our goal is to foster sporting champions, but we also strive to build confident, responsible, and resilient young citizens.”
