Grants support junior sport champions on the big stage

JUNIOR sport stars from around the region have received a financial boost, with Page MP Kevin Hogan recognising 60 teenagers under his Local Sporting Champions program.

The grants help the recipients attend regional, state and national competitions or pay for uniforms and other expenses along the way.

Nearly half of the current group were for netball with players having represented at NSW state carnivals last month.

There were also several junior baseballers, swimmers and rugby union players.

The baseballers have played at various state carnivals with the swimmers competing at national championships.

The program has been running for more than a decade and has helped hundreds of teens and parents cover the ongoing costs of representing at a higher level.

“The Northern Rivers has produced some outstanding sportspeople in the past, and it is important that we support the next crop of our local sporting talent,” Hogan said.

“Unfortunately succeeding in sport doesn’t just take talent and determination, parents also often have to put their hands in their pockets to get their children to competitions.

“I’m very pleased to be able to help these families with financial support through these grants.

“Sport is important in the development of young people; it teaches them lifelong skills like teamwork, keeps them fit and healthy, and allows them to excel in something they love and enjoy.”

The program also encourages junior umpires and referees to apply.

Anyone wanting to apply for the next round of grants can find out more at ausport.gov.au .