Some of the Shoalhaven’s most talented young athletes were recently recognised at the Shoalhaven City Council Mayoral Reception.
The event, held at the Shoalhaven City Council Administration Building, celebrated the outstanding achievements of the 28 Illawarra Academy of Sport scholarship athletes from the Shoalhaven region.
Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes and their families enjoyed hearing from and meeting with Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Patricia White, IAS President Sharon Wingate, and other esteemed and valued members of the Illawarra Academy of Sport and the Shoalhaven community.
Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Patricia White praised the athletes for their success and wished them well for the future.
“Events like this provide an important opportunity to reflect upon the commitment and perseverance required by our young athletes to achieve at an elite sporting level,” Mayor Patricia White said.
“The dedication and hard work of these athletes is inspiring and it’s unsurprising the Shoalhaven continues to produce some of the state’s top sporting performers. I look forward to following their progress as they continue to represent our region with pride.
“It is clear that behind each athlete is a strong support network of family, coaches and mentors, whose contribution is vital to their success. I’d like to also congratulate these individuals and the Illawarra Academy of Sport for their important role in developing our young, local athletes and supporting them to reach their full potential.”
Illawarra Academy of Sport Future Stars athlete Kadance Naylor, who is a track and field athlete and competes in javelin throw, discus and shot put, delivered a vote of thanks speech on behalf of the Shoalhaven athletes, outlining the positive impact that the IAS has had on her sporting journey, and thanking Shoalhaven City Council for their ongoing support.
“I started my journey with the Illawarra Academy of Sport two years ago, with ambitious goals and targets in mind,” Naylor said.
“The support provided by the IAS, including expert guidance on nutrition, media training, and strength and conditioning, has been instrumental in my growth as an athlete, on and off the track.
“Notably, the gym sessions at the Bay & Basin Leisure Centre and Barnstorming Fitness in Nowra have enabled me to progress at a faster rate than I anticipated.
“The IAS program, with its wide range of sports and educational content, provides a complete package for young and future athletes like me. None of this would be possible without the backing and support of the Shoalhaven City Council, and on behalf of all the Shoalhaven athletes, I would like to say thank you.”
Illawarra Academy of Sport President Sharon Wingate praised the efforts of Shoalhaven City Council and thanked the organisation for its contribution towards the IAS.
“Shoalhaven City Council continues to support young athletes in this region, as it has for over 40 years. As a Foundation Member, you have always been both visible and valued, and we greatly appreciate the role you play in supporting youth across the Shoalhaven,” she said.
“To our athletes, we’re proud to recognise you today and even more excited to see what comes next. Each year I look around the room and wonder which of you I might one day see on a world stage, or even an Olympic podium.
“Enjoy this moment, keep working hard, stay connected to your community, and make the most of your time with us.”
