Local Sporting Champions take the world by storm

More than 30 local athletes who have received Local Sporting Champions grants over the past two years gathered at a presentation with Federal Member for Flinders Greg Hunt so he could congratulate them on their sporting achievements.

“I was delighted to meet some dedicated young athletes who have been recipients of Local Sporting Champions grants at an event I hosted earlier this month,” Mr Hunt said. 

“These young athletes have my ongoing support as they chase their sporting dreams.”

Grants are awarded three times a year to young athletes in the Flinders electorate who are competing in events across the country and internationally.

“It was fantastic to see so many talented athletes in one place and to hear their stories,” Mr Hunt said.

“It was inspiring to hear about their achievements and future aspirations. Some may go on to become future Olympians, Commonwealth Games medalists or elite athletes in their field.”

“We heard from children as young as 11 years old, who have competed on the world stage or are at the top of their chosen sport at either a state or national level.”

Alex Bulte, 12, has been playing tennis since he was six years old and is currently ranked number one in Australia for his birth year. He recently represented Australia in the 12 and under European Tour.

“I love being able to tour the world and play against some of the best,” he said.

“I want to be the best I can be and go as far as I can with it. My dream is to one day play in a grand slam.”

The Local Sporting Champions grants contribute to the cost of travel, accommodation, equipment and uniforms to enable athletes to participate in a particular championship or event.

Individual recipients receive $500 and in the past teams have received $3,000 to assist our young athletes to fulfil their sporting ambition.

Mr Hunt congratulated all of the recipients of Local Sporting Champions grants on their achievements and wished them every success in the future.

“It is excellent to see so many people of varying ages and sporting aspirations actively involved in their communities and I am thrilled the Australian Government has been able to play a part in helping them to reach their potential and compete on the world stage,” he said. 

Applications for the next round of Local Sporting Champions grants are now open until February 28, 2015. Applications should be received before the competition start date. Visit www.ausport.gov.au for more information.

Local Sporting Champions grants recipients who were presented with certificates:

 

Teams

Mt Martha Life Saving Club

Southern Peninsula Basketball Association

Media contact: Samantha Robin on 03 5979 3188 or 0427 787 166

Download the related file: 271114 Media Release – Local Sporting Champions CRA.pdf