Some world-beating young athletes have been among those honoured at the 41st Blacktown City Sports Awards gala dinner.
Players, officials and volunteers were recognised for their achievements and contributions at the well-attended function at Bowman Hall, Blacktown, on Saturday.
Nicolas Diaz Ballas of Kellyville Ridge was named Sportsperson of the Year after he became a world champion in trampoline gymnastics.
Chelsea Gomez of Acacia Gardens claimed Female Junior Sportsperson of the Year for outstanding taekwondo achievements, while race walking talent Isaac Beacroft of Quakers Hill was named Male Junior Sportsperson of the Year.
Diesel Thompson of Minchinbury received Sportsperson of the Year (people with a disability) for his impressive swimming results and improvement.
There was a record number of nominations for the awards and Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was grateful for the community support.
“Blacktown City has an incredible array of sporting talent and I am pleased Council’s awards continue to be a highly valued way of recognising outstanding sportspeople,” he said.
“This is the sporting capital of Western Sydney and we are providing quality facilities and services to promote healthy lifestyles.
“Congratulations to the award winners and everyone who was nominated.
“I particularly want to thank our volunteers and officials. Without you, there would be no sport.”
Guest speaker and former Australian rugby league captain Brad Fittler also congratulated winners and nominees and encouraged young athletes to follow their dreams.
Blacktown City Sports Awards began in 1983 and receive more than 100 nominations each year.
Past recipients of the Sportsperson of the Year award include:
- Footballer and Matildas representative Kyah Simon (2011)
- Weightlifter and Paris Games Olympian Kyle Bruce (2023)
Nominations for next year’s award open on 1 July 2024.
