South West Academy of Sport gathers momentum - 15 January 2008
The development of a South West Academy of Sport (SWAS) is gathering steam, with a number of regional sporting groups applying to be part of the academy’s inaugural program.
“We asked for expressions of interest from sporting groups for up to four sports that could be part of the academy’s starting program,” South West Development Commission project officer and SWAS board member Tom Busher said.
“There was a high level of interest and enthusiasm for the South West Academy of Sport, with queries from 20 different sports and 10 official submissions.
“There were some very strong applications among the submissions, which has made it challenging for the selection panel to come up with a shortlist.”
The 10 applications for inclusion in the inaugural South West Academy of Sport program came from local basketball, Australian Rules Football, soccer, netball, roller skating, hockey, surf lifesaving, rowing, cricket and tennis.
“The positive aspect of the academy is that even sports that miss out on being part of the inaugural program will be eligible for up to 50 scholarships for individual athletes,” Mr Busher said.
“And as the academy grows, more sports will be inducted into its program, similar to the WA Institute of Sport.”
He said the academy would provide specialist skills training by top tier coaches at a local level, professional training such as nutrition and time management, injury prevention and movement coaching, life skills training and career counselling.
“Previously, rising athletes had to travel to the metropolitan area to advance their skills in these areas,” he said.
“We expect at least 300 athletes will benefit directly, but sport in general will benefit from the increased knowledge, skills and professionalism the South West Academy of Sport will bring to this region.”
The inaugural sporting programs are expected to be announced in the first part of 2008.
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