Academy a boost to South West sport - 9 July 2008
The South West Academy of Sport could be the launching pad for the next Adam Hunter, Mark Worthington or Troy Elder.
It could also provide the springboard for a number of exciting projects.
Western Australian sports authorities have signalled the academy, launched in Bunbury on Friday by South-West Minister Mark McGowan, is likely to boost sporting opportunities in a number of fields.
It will offer up-and-coming athletes from throughout the region the opportunity to enter elite training closer to home, reducing stress on those who would have previously had to travel to the metropolitan area to reach their potential.
WA Country Football League regional manager for South West football development Shane Atherton said the academy could lead to the development of South West teams participating in the annual WAFL 15s and 16s development carnivals.
“I see it as a catalyst for the South West to be more responsible for its own football development to the point the squad could be the nucleus amongst WAFL Colts teams," he said.
“There are nine WAFL development districts - we hope the South West district will one day be the tenth.”
Football West chief executive Garry Chandler said the academy would provide an important step in the pathway for participants to play soccer at an elite level.
He said it was timely Perth Glory Youth League would also commence this year.
“It will give talented young players in the South West a better chance to develop their skills, athletic ability and maximise their potential, exposing them to the very best athlete development programs available,” Mr Chandler said.
South West Basketball development director Steve Hawkins said the South West Academy of Sport could lead to more of its players following in the footsteps of basketball star Australind boy Mark Worthington.
“In the South West we have seven players who are in the State intensive training program,” he said.
“The academy will allow us to have 25 players training at an elite level.”
Hockey South West development officer Megan Pollard said the academy could increase the number of local players selected to compete at a State level, as well as the number of high level coaches developed in the region.
“The academy will improve hockey overall in the South West,” she said.
…ENDS
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Teneille Watson