Wollongong’s brightest young athletes were recognised on Wednesday 19 June at the Wollongong City Council Mayoral Reception.
Attendees had the pleasure of hearing from and meeting with Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM, and other esteemed and valued members of the Wollongong community.
Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes Marci Davis-Cook (17) and Jake Barritt (13) spoke on behalf of the 2024 cohort, outlining the positive impact that the IAS has had on their sporting journey throughout the year, and thanked Wollongong City Council for their ongoing support.
“The Wollongong community is amazing,” Davis-Cook said.
“Not only do they support individual athletes like myself and Jake, but incredible organisations like the Illawarra Academy of Sport.
“Thank you to all the sponsors, especially tonight to Wollongong City Council for hosting this event and for your ongoing support of the academy, because as athletes in this room can attest to, without it we wouldn’t have the foundations to be great athletes of the future.”
Barritt, a dual scholarship holder in triathlon and cycling, thanked the IAS for their contribution towards his career as he continues to develop into a professional athlete.
“I have learned skills and developed as an athlete all thanks to the amazing team at the IAS,” Barritt said.
“They also have provided me with many opportunities including social media training, leadership programs and nutritional expertise.”
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said the region had a history of producing exceptional sporting talent.
“Wollongong has a proud sporting history and has seen young athletes in a wide range of codes rise through the ranks to be world champions and recognised across Australia and internationally for their skills and prowess,” Lord Mayor Councillor Bradbery AM said.
“This wouldn’t be possible without the opportunity for skills development locally and that’s where the Illawarra Academy of Sport plays an essential role.
“We’re proud to support the Illawarra Academy of Sport as they foster and support the development of the next generation of sporting superstars. Congratulations to all of those recognised at the scholarship reception.”
Illawarra Academy of Sport President Sharon Wingate praised the efforts of Wollongong City Council and thanked the organisation for their contribution towards the IAS.
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Wollongong City Council for their continued support and dedication to the Academy,” Wingate said.
“As one of the six founding members, Wollongong City Council has been a crucial contributor to the IAS, playing an integral role in nurturing and shaping some of Australia’s most decorated athletes who call the Illawarra home.
“Our current scholarship intake proudly comprises 290 athletes,150 of whom are from the Wollongong LGA.
“Our goal is to foster sporting champions, but we also strive to build confident, responsible, and resilient young citizens.”
