SWSAS TimeOut
Rising Stars Shine at Regional
Titles
No less than Nine athletes from the Academy recently competed at the Australian Softball Championships, playing out an incredible test of attrition in an all-NSW Final
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Trailblazing a Path through Triathlon to Multi-Sport Excellence
Juggling school and sport whilst still having an active family and social life can be challenging for any athlete. Hear how Academy Triathlete Zoe Bruce manages training for all three elements of triathlon, plus finds time to be a competitive cheerleader.
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She Hoops to Shine On and Off the Court
For some sport is more than just a game, it is a passion. And when your mentored by your hero, it only grows stronger.
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SWSAS TimeOut
‘TimeOut is the official quarterly magazine proudly produced in-house by the South West Sydney Academy of Sport for our South West Sydney community
‘TimeOut’ is published four times per year, with Editions published in March, June, September and December. Weekly updates, ‘The GamePlan’ are published on the Academy's social media channels to keep up to date with current and upcoming events.
For editorial or advertising enquiries, please email media@swsas.org.au
South West Sydney Academy of Sport
Chairperson: Peter Campbell
Chief Executive Officer: Gerry Knights
Sport Operations Manager: Stephen Craig
Sport Programs Manager: Catarina Julius
Sport Administration Officer: Tahlia Febbo
Academy Chaplain: Rev Jim Dayhew
Media intern: Abby Wijesekera
Contact the Academy:
Ph: (02) 4627 7622
Email: sport@swsas.org.au
Visit: 2/298 Queen St Campbelltown, NSW 2560
Post: PO Box 307 Macarthur Square, NSW 2560
Images provided by Academy Staff. Additional images used by permission from Luke Fuda Photography and Regional Academies of Sport Inc.
Cover Image:
The gameplan DatesfortheDiary Presents
Wollondilly Council Civic Reception
Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre, Picton
Wednesday 9 April, 2025
ClubsNSW Your Local Club Regional Academy Games
(Basketball, Golf, Hockey, Netball, Softball, Triathlon, Volleyball)
Tamworth, NSW
Friday 11 April - Sunday 13 April, 2025
Campbelltown Council Civic Reception
Campbelltown Arts Centre, Campbelltown
Thursday 8 May, 2025
Regional Academies of Sport Performance Support Staff Conference
Mingara Recreation Club, Gosford
Friday 30 May, 2025
Regional Academies of Sport Coach Conference
Mingara Recreation Club, Gosford
Saturday 31 May, 2025
Performance Extension Holiday Program
Thomas Hassall Anglican College, Liverpool
Thursday 10 - Friday 11 July, 2025
Annual Graduation and Sport Awards Dinner
The Cube, Campbelltown
Friday 8 August, 2025
Regional Academies of Sport Netball Challenge
Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley
28-29 September, 2025
QUBE Coach Connect Conference
Wests League Club, Campbelltown
Sunday 12 October, 2025
Mrs. Amanda Coles provides an abundance of financial expertise, and sound sports knowledge and a wealth of sports administration experience to the Academy, as well as a passion for fostering opportunities for young athletes to excel, both on and off the field
It is most interesting to note how many academy board members have moved on from our very own board, to represent our community at the Federal, State and Local level.
Mrs Anne Stanley current Federal Member for Werriwa, Mrs Judith Hannan current State Member for Wollondilly, Ms. Charishma Kaliyanda current State Member for Liverpool, Phil Costa State Member for Wollondilly, Geoff Corrigan State Member for Camden, Chris Patterson State Member for Camden, Michael Knight State Member for Campbelltown and the Academy’s Foundation Committee Chairperson, plus Minister for the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games
It seems that we are not only developing amazing athletes and coaches, but also Australia’s future political leaders.
Let’s hope they remember their roots when it comes to grants time… ha ha !!
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Athlete Monthly Check In
Stay connected to the Academy through the various online check in forms available for Academy Athletes including;
Wests Future Stars Monthly Engagement Forms
Results and Performance Update Forms
Goal Setting and Athlete Wellbeing Form
Check out your Academy Athlete Resource App today
Remember - we cannot promote you if we do not know about what you have achieved #wearesouthwestsydney
Coach Recognised as True Leader
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport’s mission on not just athlete education and development, but that of it’s large contingent of coach and support staff has this week been recognised, with Academy Basketball Head Coach Jeff Cooper awarded the 2025 Regional Academies of Sport (NSW) ‘Coach Leadership Award’, when all eleven Regional Academies of Sport from across New South Wales, came together at the Wenty Leagues Club in Parramatta on Tuesday 25 February, to celebrate and recognise the achievements of regional academy athletes and coaches, across five sport development categories.
Adding to his already impressive awards resume, which includes winning the South West Sydney Academy of Sport’s ‘Coach of the Year’ award in late 2024, Cooper has been an integral part of the Academy’s Coach Technical Advisory Group, who helps guide suggestions on not just coach development and education topics, but the overall pathway development for coaches within the Academy.
“Jeff’s commitment to self development in completing additional coaching courses and attending numerous coaching conferences whilst coaching within the Academy’s Basketball and 3x3 Basketball programs has been exemplary throughout the past three years, said Academy CEO Gerry Knights, who added that, “With his ongoing commitment to athlete and coach development within the South West Sydney region, Jeff has been appropriately recognised in winning this award”.
When asked about his journey so far and experience within the Regional Academy network, an emotional Cooper reflected on what he had learned within the many education and support sessions provided
“Being able to coach is about providing to the athletes, but the difference with the South West Sydney Academy of Sport is that they also provide the education and development for us as coaches,” said Cooper, as he received his award in front of fellow coaching peers, athletes and dignitaries from across NSW Regional Academies
“I am honoured to even be considered for this award, let alone win it, and must thank the staff of the Academy for giving me the opportunity to coach in the program along with the athletes, coaching staff and support staff who also give so much of their time” said Cooper, who was quick to add that he must also thank his wife Robyn, and family for their support over the years that has allowed him to give his spare time to coaching.
Cooper however was not the only one celebrated at the annual event, with four Regional Academy of Sport athletes recognised for their significant achievements throughout the year.
Each award winner was selected from nominations received from across all NSW Regional Academies.
The categories, and overall winners presented were:
Athlete of the Year – Sienna Toohey (Swimming), Southern Sports Academy
Athlete with Disability Athlete of the Year – Declan Budd (Para Swimming), Central Coast Academy of Sport
Indigenous Athlete of the Year – Ocea Curtis (Surfing), North Coast Academy of Sport
Athlete Leadership – Mia Richardson (Basketball), Western Region Academy of Sport
Coach Leadership – Jeff Cooper (Basketball), South West Sydney Academy of Sport
The annual Award dinner, proudly supported by Steadfast Group Limited, Underwriting Agencies of Australia Pty Ltd (UAA) and ClubsNSW was heralded as yet another crowning moment for Regional Academies of Sport, in NSW
The Regional Academies of Sport were grateful to host a significant number of dignitaries from a wide array of NSW State Sporting Organisations, along with key representatives of NSW Office of Sport, the NSW Institute of Sport, Australian Olympic Committee, and Paralympics Australia.
Guests included Dr Hugh McDermott MP, Member for Prospect, AOC Chief Executive of Community Engagement James Edwards, Olympians Bronte Campbell OAM, Melissa Wu, Gordon Allan, and Sarah Ryan OAM, plus representatives from the Regional Academies of Sport network’s major stakeholders, athletes, parents, and staff from the Regional Academies join together along with the South West Sydney Academy of Sport and Western Sydney Academy of Sport who co-hosted this year’s event.
The Regional Academies continue to represent an extensive geographic areas across NSW, with over 100 Local Government Areas and support services provided for over 2,000 athletes, and 300 coaching and program staff.
The Regional Academies of Sport network continues to grow in recognition and significance, across a wide range of organisations, such as the NSW Government, the NSW Institute of Sport, Paralympics Australia, and State Sporting Organisations, as we head towards Australia’s 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Alongside Jeff Cooper, the South West Sydney Academy of Sport fielded finalists in all categories, with Academy Indigenous Program athlete Isabella Stephens a finalist for the UAA Indigenous Athlete of the Year Award, whilst Triathlete Zoe Bruce was a finalist for the Steadfast Athlete Leadership Award.
Macarthur BMX racer Isla Basa was a finalist for the Athlete of the Year award, whilst Wests Future Stars Para-Swimmer Daniel Lill was once again a finalist for the Athlete with a Disability Athlete of the Year, marking his second time as a finalist at the event
Academy’s Rising Stars Shine at Regional Softball Championships
The recently contested U14 Australian Regional Softball Championships in Canberra in early March, was an action-packed tournament for the title of U14 National Champions Yet the highlight of the event was definitely in the showcasing the exceptional talent of the young athletes from the South West Sydney Academy of Sport
All up, nine (9) athletes from the Academy’s ‘The Mac’ Softball Program represented NSW at the tournament, proving themselves as rising stars in the sport, delivering intense performances, demonstrating impressive teamwork, and leaving a lasting impact on the competition.
The Academy athletes were Michael Daamen, Tyrese Saunders, and Lyell Walker, who represented NSW Sky, while Harry Dougherty, Jack Dougherty, Denzel Paratainga, Ziggy Paratainga, Nicholas Picone and Harry White showcased their skills as part of NSW Navy, with both NSW teams displaying remarkable determination and talent, setting the stage for an all-Blue Grand Final.
Throughout the seven-game Round Robin series, NSW Sky set the benchmark for excellence, securing the top spot in the standings. Close behind, NSW Navy followed in second place, proving that New South Wales were once again the dominant force throughout the competition.
Each match was a testament to the athletes' dedication and relentless effort, highlighting their potential for future success.
Adding to the squad’s achievements was Ray Gavin, a respected member of the Academy's coaching staff, who had the honour of serving as assistant coach for NSW Sky. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in guiding the team through the rigorous tournament.
After an outstanding performance in the preliminary rounds, both NSW Sky and NSW Navy advanced to the Grand Final, setting the stage for an unforgettable showdown. The championship match exceeded expectations, culminating in a gruelling thriller that lasted well over three hours.
From the very first inning, the game was a relentless back-and-forth contest, with neither team willing to concede an inch, both setting an incredible runs tally after the allocated seven innings. In true and typical NSW fashion, the teams could not be separated, and were deadlocked at 17-all, forcing the game into a tiebreaker innings.
With both squads refusing to lay down easily, it was the NSW Navy side, featuring six of the nine Academy athletes who ultimately emerged victorious by one run, claiming the title of U14 National Champions with a 19-18 run win.
Despite the heartbreaking loss in the tiebreaker, NSW Sky finished as tournament Runners-Up, rounding out the NSW 1-2, a remarkable achievement that reflects the states talent and resilience. The players' determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship were evident throughout the championship, exemplifying the values of elite-level softball.
“The experience gained from competing in such a high-intensity championship will undoubtedly shape the future careers of these young athletes. This level of competition not only enhances their technical abilities but also builds confidence, adaptability, and a deeper passion for the sport,” said Academy Head Coach Marsheal Walker.
Following their impressive performances at the U14 Regional Championships, the future looks incredibly bright for the Academy’s softballers. Their remarkable journey in Canberra is just the beginning, and with their skill, dedication, and drive, they will definitely be the team to watch at the upcoming ‘Your Local Club’ Clubs NSW Regional Academy Games in Tamworth. Held through April 11-13, Softball makes its long-awaited return to the Academy Games, having not been played at the state-wide event for several years.
“The Academy is definitely excited to see Softball return to the Games, and with our athletes recent success, are targeting this event to finish well up the podium” added Academy Sport Programs Manager Catarina Julius.
BMX Takes on the Snowy Mountains
Across the weekend of March 22-23, our ‘Bounce Back Physio’ BMX Squad headed south to the Snowy Mountains for it's first camp of 2025 and two-days of intense on track skills and race training, followed by a race day with it's local Snowy Mountains club.
With the Snowy Mountains BMX track relatively new, the on-track component of the camp served as a taste tester for those athletes who will return in mid-April for Round 2 of the NSW State Series - the first to be hosted by the Jindabyne-based club.
“A large part of Academy BMX camps is not just about riding, but supporting fellow regional clubs, such as the Snowy Mountains Club", said Academy Sport Program Manager Catarina Julius, “These camps allow our athletes to experience new tracks, as well as meet and race against fellow competitors in a more relaxed environment.”
Whilst there was a lot of on-track time practicing gate starts, timing sequences and overtaking, the squad had time to explore the sights and sounds of Jindabyne, with Athletes participating in a bare-foot bowls competition Many realising that their skills were definitely more refined to the BMX track.
And back at the accommodation, the squad were able to bond as a strong team unit, albeit through a simpler country lifestyle, with phone and internet coverage rather limited within the mountains.
The squad's focus now shifts somewhat over the next few months to their strength and conditioning program with ‘Bounce Back Physio’, as well as supporting each other through Local, State and National racing rounds, with the squad also well into the thick of planning for a Victorian Country Escapade (Tour) later in the year.
Trailblazing a Path through Triathlon to Multi-Sport Excellence
South West Sydney Academy of Sport Triathlete Zoe Bruce is no stranger to conflicting commitments, challenges and stepping outside of her comfort zone as she helps pave the way for the future of multi-sport athletes. While mastering a single sport is a challenge for many, Bruce thrives in the demanding world of multi-sport competition, excelling in both Triathlon and All Star Cheerleading, demonstrating the value of character in pursuing one’s ambitions
As a Triathlete, Bruce tackles the physically and mentally demanding disciplines of swimming, cycling, and running – all within the same single “race”. This test of endurance and strength also requires significant mental resilience, “Triathlon is a lot more mental than physical,” Bruce explains, adding that, “When it comes to race day, it comes down to your mental fitness ” Taking on this mindset has equipped her with the mental toughness to navigate not only race day, but also the external pressures and challenges faced by highperformance junior athletes, who are juggling sport, school and social commitments.
Bruce’s journey into triathlon began after a recommendation of a friend at her local club, Macarthur Triathlon, after having a successful venture in cross country running It was not long before her passion and drive within Triathlon became evident. Then, in 2021, she joined the South West Sydney Academy of Sport, an experience that has helped her develop both as an athlete and as an aspiring professional. “Being part of the Academy is not just about Triathlon,” reflected Bruce, “It’s about learning what happens to athletes in the professional world and preparing for that next level.”
Her dedication and embodiment of the Academy values were recognised when she was awarded the prestigious 2024 Chairperson’s Award at the Academy Athlete Graduation and Sport Awards Dinner –the Academy’s highest accolade for an individual athlete “Receiving the validation and accolades that I represent the academy values within not just my sport, but how I am seen to represent myself was very reaffirming to my character,” Bruce said, highlighting the significance of the honour
And it is her leadership traits in looking out for her teammates that shines through, even in Triathlon, while athletes compete fiercely during races, the bonds athletes form outside of competition are equally strong. “We are competitors in the race, but as soon as it is over, we can be best mates,” Bruce shares, emphasising the family-oriented nature of the sport She also values the competitive drive it instils, stating, “I like always having somebody that I can chase and push me as much as I push them, then we both benefit and get better.”
Bruce’s passion for her main sport has led her to become an ambassador for NSW Triathlon, where she regularly promotes the sport through social media posts and activations, whilst encouraging others to take up the challenge. “I get to promote the sport that I love, which is a pretty easy job when you love what you are doing,” she said enthusiastically.
Beyond Triathlon, Bruce is also a dedicated All-Star Cheerleader, which is fast becoming a sport known for its high risk and intense physical demands “It is considered one of the most dangerous sports with the highest injury risk,” she acknowledges. Whilst admitting, “I get to put on a sparkly uniform and jump around whilst doing stunts and tricks, like being thrown in the air, which I think is pretty cool within itself”. Balancing both spor management, with Bruce ex school, for example, becaus
Looking ahead, Bruce has ambitious goals in both her sporting and academic careers She aspires to become a high school PDHPE teacher while also working towards her dream of representing Australia in Triathlon at the Olympic level “If you don’t take the opportunity, it could be gone, and you may never get the same opportunity again,” she reflects, embracing each challenge with determination
With an unshakable mindset and an unwavering passion for her sports, Zoe Bruce is a name to watch. Whether in the water, on the bike, or on the track, she continues to push herself toward greatness one step at a time.
Your Mission: Dominate Go-Karting and Inspire the Next Generation
In just her second-year of the West Future Stars program at the South West Sydney Academy of Sport, athlete Deniel Vermeulen is on a mission to cement her name in the not so common sport of go-karting. In this male-dominated sport, Vermeulen proudly declares, “I don’t want them to view me as a girl; I want them to view me as a competitor.”
Recently, Academy Operations Manager Stephen Craig caught up with Vermeulen, who shared insights into the remarkable world of go-karting, addressing both the prejudices and breakthroughs she has encountered. She remarked, “There are two perceptions: either that it is an elite sport or that it’s not even a sport.” Vermeulen uses these misconceptions as motivation, striving to showcase the mentally and physically demanding nature of go-karting
With a keen interest in motorised sports from a young age, Vermeulen has dedicated herself to the sport with a passion that has driven her toward prestigious achievements, including winning the ‘Australian Women’s National Race’ in 2023. However it was through her early grassroots years, where she honed her skills and cultivated her passion through the Junior Race League, at Fast Lane Karting in Minto
As she continues to excel in the sport while balancing her educational commitments, Vermeulen remains deeply appreciative of her beginnings. This gratitude has inspired her to give back to the community, as she now combines her school and race commitments with coaching at Fast Lane Karting, sharing her knowledge and skills with young karters who admire her accomplishments
However, the sport comes with significant challenges. Vermeulen explains that the karts are equipped with “big horsepower engines…[which] hit around 125 km per hour.” Reflecting on one of her less than greatest moment – crashing, she recounts the experience of sustaining three crushed bones, requiring three surgeries and over six months of recovery.
The physically gruelling nature of go-karting, coupled with its mental demands, underscores Vermeulen’s resilience – using these setbacks as fuel to propel her forward and returned to the track, where she continues to pursue even greater ambitions.
It was this determination that led Vermeulen to find out about and ultimately be successful in gaining a position within the Academy’s West Future Stars program, which has been instrumental in developing athletes across various individual and niche sports.
The Future Stars program offers personalised mentorship aimed at fostering holistic growth, and in the highly competitive world of go-karting, Vermeulen has benefited from working closely with her mentors, who provide guidance on critical aspects such as nutrition, mental preparation, and building meaningful connections. She credits the Future Stars program with giving her the confidence to push her limits and achieve more.
Vermeulen has recently advanced to one of the top karting categories in Australia, where, as she notes, “There is only one other girl in Australia” competing at this level.
This category is not only male-dominated but also attracts an older demographic due to its physically demanding nature. Looking ahead, Vermeulen aims to travel to the United States this year to complete testing in an entry-level category for Open Wheelers, a key stepping stone toward her ultimate goal of competing full time in the U S IndyCar series
Vermeulen continues to impress the go-karting community with her unwavering dedication and fierce determination.
She defies stereotypes and excels in her field while inspiring and mentoring the next generation of young karters.
Her story is a testament to her exceptional talent, resilience, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sport, and through the help of the Academy's Wests Future Stars program, has her sights firmly set on whatever it takes to secure her success in the not to distant future.
Bingara Gorge Settles In For Year Ahead
We are pleased to announce that Bingara Gorge | Metro has continued their partnership with the South West Sydney Academy of Sport, as the program partner of the Academy Netball and Netball Umpires Program for a fourth consecutive year.
Through Bingara Gorge | Metro's ongoing support, the Academy is able to provide high-performance pathways for 30 athletes, 7 umpires and 8 coaches and support staff. This partnership helps foster talent and develop future netball stars through elite training, sports education and strength and conditioning programs.
In 2025, the Academy's Bingara Gorge Netball Program will take part in the Regional Academies Pathway Camp in March, the ClubsNSW Regional Academy Games in Tamworth in April and the Regional Academy’s Netball Challenge in the Illawarra in September.
As a part of the sponsorship announcement, several lucky athletes had the opportunity to participate in a photo shoot with Jeff Atkinson, Bingara Gorge Property Director, under the direction of renowned photographer Luke Fuda
A great afternoon was held by all who attended, and despite a rather untimely thunderstorm, the athletes looked amazing.
The photo shoot also providing a great opportunity to not just showcase the partnership between Bingara Gorge and the Academy Netball program, but provide the athletes an opportunity to shine under a different spotlight.
Included in the shoot was a meet and greet with Jeff, where athletes were able to share their background within the sport, and gain an insight and education into media opportunities that may present themselves in the future.
3x3 Basketball Locked In For First Ever Nationals Experience
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport is excited to announce that three teams from within its ‘Sharp EIT Solutions’ 3x3 Basketball Program have been successful in gaining an invitation to compete at the NBL 3x3 Hustle National Championships, to take place in Geelong April 14-16, 2025
The unique aspect of the 3x3 Basketball Program, in that finding performance opportunities has the team participating in several tournaments throughout the program. Presently the South West Sydney Academy of Sport is the only Regional Academy in NSW to host a dedicated 3x3 program alongside the more traditional Basketball format The 3x3 Hustle format provides a unique opportunity and pathway for its athletes from local tournament participation, through to a National tournament.
Following on from a successful Christmas Clash National Qualification tournament in Gosford in late December, where our 18 Boys won the event. Whilst our 18 Girls found themselves recipients of an automatic qualification following an exciting competition, much to the delight of the athletes and program staff. Continuing on from that event, our 14 Boys performed exceptionally well at the Sutherland Surf Clash in January, where they have then earned themselves a wildcard invitation directly from NBL Hustle.
As a result, the Academy will be sending three teams of four self-funded athlete representatives in the 18 Girls, 18 Boys, and 14 Boys Divisions to compete against fellow 3x3 teams from around the nation.
The selected athletes to represent South West Sydney include; 18 Boys: Max Brown-Tjakuapi, Brody Acorn, Logan Orazi and Oskar Vagaja. 18 Girls: Kaitlin Kumar, Emily Paulic, Tahlia Rushbrook and Jamison Page. 14 Boys: Max Biela, Xander Sylvester and Jake Diver, with a fourth athlete to be added prior to the tournament.
With the outstanding results of the 3x3 Basketball Program, the Academy is now looking ahead to build upon that success in its mainstream Basketball program in the years ahead.
She Hoops to Shine On and Off the Court
For South West Sydney Academy of Sport 3x3 Basketball athlete Kaitlin Kumar, basketball is more than just a game, it is a passion that continues to grow every day Kaitlin’s basketball journey is somewhat unique, as it began with a half-court built by her father, an avid Los Angeles Lakers fan. Somewhat of a memorial for the late Kobe Bryant, growing up, Kumar was immersed in physical culture, but it was not until she began high school, and that new half court, that her passion for basketball truly ignited.
"My Dad is a huge Kobe Bryant fan," Kumar shared, "He built the court to honour Kobe's legacy, and that is when I really fell in love with the game," said Kumar, adding that it was Bryant's bond with his daughter that mirrored her own relationship with her father, deepening her connection to the sport and inspiring her to pursue basketball in a more serious capacity.
Now, after two years in the Academy, Kumar has flourished not only as an athlete but as a role model. She began as part of the Academy's Indigenous Athlete Program in 2023, and has taken advantage of every opportunity since to improve her skills, both physically and most importantly, mentally
"Getting to do sports psychology really helps with the mental side of the game," she said, "You can be the fittest, fastest person in the room, but it comes down to the mental preparation."
Kumar’s dedication to her off-court development paid off when she represented with a NSW Fijian team at a tournament in New Zealand, where her side was successful in winning gold in the competition. The experience was both a challenge and a triumph, putting to the test the mental skills she had sharpened through the Academy program.
"Everyone has their own journey," she reflected, "Fighting those mental demons on the court was a huge part of that tournament, and because of the education I had received at the Academy, was able to put in those strategies to remind myself that I am good at what I do, I did deserve to be there That really helped”, said Kumar.
Kaitlin’s leadership skills have also taken another significant leap through the Basketball Australia She Hoops program, which was founded by Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson (pictured below with Kaitlin).
After being offered one of three of the Leadership and Confidence Scholarship in NSW on offer, which included several months of online education and mentoring sessions, Kumar attended a three-day camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, where she trained alongside other promising female athletes and earned both her basketball referee and coaching certificates.
"She Hoops is great about promoting women and empowering basketball, the experience not only boosted my confidence, but also helped grow my desire to inspire other young women to pursue basketball”, said Kumar.
The passion however was almost lost this season as the Wollondilly Razorbacks were unable to fill an Under-18 Girls team this season, forcing Kumar to switch associations
This transition was bittersweet as she stated, "The age jump from Under-16s to Under-18s in basketball sees a big drop-off of girls playing, and finding an association that has a pathway for me to keep playing after juniors late is always tough", said Kumar, adding that “I loved playing for the (Wollondilly) Razorbacks, they are a small, yet very family, community focused club, hopefully they will continue to build their girls program in the older age groups soon.”
Recognising the trend in older girls dropping out of basketball within the region, the Academy introduced the 3x3 basketball program in 2023, which has been a game-changer for athletes like Kumar.
"3x3 Basketball is a faster, more intense game. You really have to focus on refining your skills with one-on-one defence and offence."
The program's impact was evident when Kumar's team became the first from the Academy to qualify for the 3x3 Hustle Nationals, which take place in Geelong throughout April, on which Kumar stated "It made my day, it made my whole year "
Looking ahead, Kumar dreams of playing college basketball in the United States while also fostering her passion for forensic science.
Whilst her ultimate goal is to become a forensic psychologist, which she recognises will require as much discipline and dedication as her athletic pursuits. "I have a long way to go, but if I put my head down, I will get there one day "
Fuelling her drive is her supportive family and her desire to set an example for her younger sister Kherington, who is following closely behind Kaitlin’s basketball footsteps
"One of my main reasons that keep me going is that I want her to be able to look up to me," Kumar stated, "Because when I get on the court I have to be accountable for myself, and I want her to see that I was able to push through any challenge in front of me, and I want her to be successful in doing the same."
With her sights set high and her feet planted firmly on the court, Kumar is proving that with keen passion and unwavering mental strength anything is possible.
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport is excited to welcome former Academy Netball athlete Abby Wijesekera to the team in 2025 as our Media Intern.
With experience as a freelance sports journalist, social media content creator and event photographer, Abby has worked across multiple platforms to provide comprehensive coverage of events. Her skill set includes athlete interviews, feature writing, social media engagement and visual storytelling ensuring engaging content.
In her role with the Academy, Abby will focus on capturing the journeys of its athletes, sharing their achievements, and engaging with the Academy's media presence through written articles, photography, videography and digital content production.
As a former netball athlete with the Academy, Abby is now returning in a professional capacity, bringing a passion for sports media and digital storytelling Abby is currently studying a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) at the University of Technology Sydney, where she is developing an expertise in sports writing, digital media, content creation and photography
Abby's background as an athlete provides a unique perspective, allowing authenticity and insight in media and communications for the Academy. Welcome to the Team Abby
The 100-Point Leadership Wellness Protocol
High performance demands high wellness. Whether you're a leader, coach, parent, or partner, your ability to thrive hinges on your well-being. And while performance is a motivator, prioritizing self-care is fundamentally about recognizing your inherent worth as a human being.
This protocol is designed to help you consistently operate at your best, focusing on achieving 100 recovery points within a 24-hour period. While aiming for daily adherence is admirable, realistically, targeting five days a week is a sustainable goal for myself you might be different.
Remember, this is a customizable framework. Feel free to adjust point values and activities to align with your unique needs and preferences. The core principle is intentional wellness.
My Wellness Point System:
50 Points:
5-hour digital detox
60-minute coaching/mentoring call
8+ hours of sleep
40 Points:
45-minute aerobic exercise
45-minute strength training
30 Points:
1-hour screen-free family time
45-minute yoga session
30-minute creative activity (writing, painting, reading fiction, etc.)
20 Points:
30 minutes in nature (walk, run, garden, etc.)
20-minute meditation
15-minute sauna
Clean eating (unprocessed foods only)
10 Points:
30-minute brisk walk
15-minute leadership book reading
30-minute leadership podcast listening
5-minute journaling
5-minute gratitude practice (thank you note, etc.)
Abstaining from alcohol
Key considerations for Point Allocations:
Impact: Activities with greater positive influence on your well-being receive higher points.
Duration: Longer activities generally earn more points, though intensity also matters.
Effort: Activities requiring significant discipline may warrant higher points.
Personal Value: Tailor the protocol to your individual needs and preferences.
Intentionally allocating time to prioritise your well-being, will enhance your capacity to lead effectively and live a more fulfilling life. It is not selfish to take care of yourself, if requiredJ.P Nerbun.
Build your Brand With Us
Have you considered supporting the 'Dreams' of tomorrow's Australian sporting heroes, in a partnership that compliments both parties?
Something that is of benefit to the wider community and embraces the value of your organisation and its staff members; and
Supports your brand in its desire to be economically, socially, environmentally and culturally responsible;
Whilst supporting the development of young, local men and women into valued community leaders.
We have an opportunity for you to partner with us, and assist athletes realise their sporting potential. Opportunities exist for Corporate and Sport Pathway Partners, through to small businesses interested in sponsoring the costs for an individual athlete. Whatever your budget, the Academy can provide a partnership with benefits suited just for you. Your partnership will also be a direct investment into a better tomorrow.
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport is a not-for-profit community based organisation, which relies heavily on the financial and social support of its outstanding corporate partners, in providing these much needed development opportunities.
The Academy in return invests a large amount of its time back into its local sporting community, servicing local associations, clubs, schools and community groups, thereby increasing the reach of our corporate partners throughout the region.
Become a part of developing a culture of Youth, Sport and Excellence within your Community today.
Friends of the Academy Friends of the Academy
