Emma Pritchard

Proudly holding their Local Sporting Champions Awards, a talented group of Clarence Valley teenagers were recognised for their amazing sports achievements last week by Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan who acknowledged their incredible feats and presented them with certificates during a ceremony at the South Grafton Bowling Sports and Recreation Club.

Describing the recipients as an incredible group of local teenagers who have excelled themselves representing the Clarence Valley at regional and national sporting events, Mr Hogan also confirmed their grants from the Local Sporting Champions program, which provides financial assistance to youths aged between 12 and 18 years to enable them to compete, coach or umpire in their chosen sport.

Mr Hogan said the Clarence Valley is renowned for producing exceptionally gifted sports personnel, and as he spent time chatting with the recipients, he said it was important that they are supported and encouraged to pursue their dreams in their respective sports.

The Federal Member said succeeding in sport doesn’t just take talent and determination, as he referenced the financial pressures many parents and carers experience in enabling their children to participate in competitions, both locally and nationally.

He said he was very pleased to be able to help families with financial support through the Local Sporting Champions Program.

“Sport is important in the development of young people,” he said.

“It teaches them life-long skills like teamwork, keeps them fit and healthy, and allows them to excel in something they love and enjoy.

“I encourage any budding champions out there who have the opportunity of competing at a state, national or international event to apply for a grant by contacting my office or checking out the website ausport.gov.au.”

During the ceremony, Sonny Churton was recognised for his cross country and athletics skills after recently finishing in the top 50 during a regional sports competition in Sydney.

Describing running as a sport he enjoys participating in, Sonny said he loves the opportunity to travel to compete and meet new people.

Watched by his proud grandma Robyn Wright, Sonny graciously accepted his award from Mr Hogan and told the Clarence Valley Independent he is looking forward to competing in more competitions.

“We’re all so, so proud of him,” Mrs Wright said.

“The family are also thankful for the programs contribution to allow him to travel to compete.

“It’s made a huge difference for us, and Sonny really enjoys himself.”  

Clarence Valley Sporting Champions:

Maia Adamson, 15, Grafton – Hockey

Savannah Cheney, 15, Alumy Creek – Hockey

Sonny Churton, 12, Yamba – Athletics

Dimity Clarke, 13, Palmers Island – Netball

Shanae Crispin, 14, Trenayr – Hockey

Maggie Davies, 15, South Grafton – Netball

Makayla Elms, 12, Iluka – Netball

Chloe Hannah, 16, Yamba – Netball

Beau Hartmann, 15, South Grafton – Rugby League

Samantha Hayman, 16, Yamba – Netball

Jessica Hinde, 12, Woombah – Netball

Ayla Howell-McLachlan, 15, Clarenza – Netball

Michael Luxton, 18, Grafton – Touch Football

Dakotah Mackay, 13, Townsend – Netball

Freya Meade, 12, Wooloweyah – Netball

Jessamine Motio Robson, 12, Maclean – Netball

Taya Murphy, 12, Yamba – Netball

Eleora Nichols, 13, Brooms Head – Netball

Thomas Palmer, 12, South Grafton – Hockey

Olana Plunkett, 15, Wooloweyah – Netball

Leilani Read, 15, Yamba – Netball

Charlie Rouse, 12, Grafton – Hockey

Chloe Ryan, 13, Gulmarrad – Netball

Evie Walters, 13, Angourie – Netball

Bridget Watters, 12, Grafton – Netball

Shelera Williams, 14, Grafton – Hockey

Riley Wondergem, 15, East Brisbane – Hockey

Lily Woods, 12, Townsend – Netball

Kyah Young, 12, Yamba – Netball