SWSAS TimeOut
SportIntegrityAustraliapresentedahighlyinsightfullectureon anti-dopingandintegrityinsportasapartoftheAcademy's athleteeducationprogram.
The ClubsNSWRegionalAcademyGamestookplaceinWagga WaggaduringApril,withsixAcademyprogramscontestinga strongweekendofcompetitionagainsttheStatesbest.
AaronKingofAcademyStrengthandConditioning partner,FitClinicprovidesaninsightintohowthe partnershipwiththeAcademybenefitsitsathletes.
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: Alley Pritchard
Sport Services Coordinator: Catarina Di Ramio
Academy Chaplain: Rev Jim Dayhew
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, Brett Atkins Photography and Regional Academies of Sport Inc.
Cover Image: Academy Netball athlete Zoey Saba and Triathlete Matthew Fosse carry the banner for the Academy at the opening ceremony of the 2024 ClubsNSW Regional Academy Games.
From the CEO's Desk
own2032BrisbaneOlympicandParalympicGames.
I must say that it is highly interesting to attempt to identify who they currently are, as there are so many variables to take into consideration. Although a few personal attributes definitely stand out, and they include, an acceptance of every coaching opportunity available, be it on the court, pitch, track,pool,orinthegym.
To be considered as a genuine talent pathway athlete, athletes must also be committed to working on the many additional foundation pillars of an athlete’s personal development, and have a clear understanding of the importance of sports education, strength and conditioning, personal developmentandathletewellbeing.
Athletes must be committed, and clearly understand what they need to do, to succeed. Seeking out support where and when required, is really important. Athletes often do not know what is needed, or how to get support in a timely and appropriate manner. The Academy is available to provide assistancetoathletesandtheirfamilies,inthisarea.
The Academy has developed marvellous wide ranging internal and external support systems, specifically developed in conjunction with State, National and International organisations, which are availabletofurthersupportitsaspiringathletes.
This aspirational pathway is defiantly not for every Academy athlete, and that is fine, as an Academy experience offers so much more than just improving sporting prowess for those selected, it also provides an opportunity to develop wonderful sporting friendships and sporting memories, to lastalifetime.
Operationally, I am pleased to again report that each and every one of our corporate partners continue to recognise the enormous community value of the Academy, and have positively renewed their most valued support. On behalf of all associated with the Academy, I say thank you one, and all.
.
I am also pleased to announce a new and exciting corporate relationship with the outstanding locally based company, Multiquip Pty Ltd. We will provide more information regarding this valued partnershipinournextedition.
Speaking on behalf of the Academy, I wish to again thank the NSW Government - Office of Sport, and our long-term Academy ‘naming rights’ partner the Campbelltown Catholic Club, plus our Platinum Partner South32, Wests League Club, Multiquip, our region’s highly supportive local Councils, and all of our amazing corporate, and sports partners, who continue to demonstrate excellentcommunityspirit,insupportingtheAcademy.
It is with the greatest of pleasure that I also welcome Professor Sarah Lewis, Dean of the School ofHealthSciences,WesternSydneyUniversity,totheAcademyBoardofDirectors.
Another example of our ever growing sport science related partnership, between the Academy andtheUniversity.
In closing, and on behalf of all of the Academy, we send our best wishes, and a sincere thank you, to our departing Sports Program Manger, Alley Pritchard (Hanagan), who finishes with the Academy at the end of June, and wish Alley and her partner all the very best in her future endeavours.
As we also welcome Catarina Di Ramio to the position of Sports Program Manager from July, an extremelywelldeservedappointment.
Asalways,IthankallassociatedwiththeAcademy,foryourexcellentongoingsupport.
Gerry Knights, CEO Gerry
Knights
Pictured: Members of the Academy Board present at the Liverpool Mayoral Reception, including L to R; Cllr Karress Rhodes, Ms Denise McGrath, CEO Gerry Knights, Deputy Chairperson Ms Michelle Caruso, Chairperson Peter Campbell and Ms Amanda Coles.
RBI Softball Inter-Academy Challenge #1
Milton Park Softball Grounds
Sunday 23 June, 2024
RBI Softball Inter-Academy Challenge #2
Stanhope Gardens Reserve
Sunday 7 July, 2024
Academy Athlete Leadership Symposium
Thomas Hassall Anglican College
Friday 12 July, 2024
Thegameplan
27th Annual Sport Awards and Graduation Dinner
The Cube, Campbelltown
Friday 16 August, 2024
UAA Indigenous Talent ID Day
Minto Indoor Sports Centre
Friday 23 August, 2024
2024-2025 Academy QUBE Coach Induction Evening and Seminar
Wests League Club Campbelltown
Monday 26 August, 2024
2024 RASi Netball Challenge
Port Macquarie Indoor Sport Stadium
27-30 September, 2024
South West Sydney Academy Corporate Golf Challenge
Campbelltown Golf Club
Friday 15 November, 2024
Academy Calendar, powered by
Helping Make Dreams Come True
We are proud to support the South West Sydney Academy of Sport.
Since 2013, South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal has been supporting rising stars across all Academy sports.
Together we are making a difference to the lives of children and young people in our community.
South West Shines on State-Wide Stage
provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents across various sporting disciplines. With over 120 athletes and 25 coaches in attendance, the South West Sydney Academy of Sport emergedasaprominentpresence,demonstratingexcellenceandsportsmanshipthroughouttheevent.
Southern Sports Academy (SSA) took the helm as hosts of this year's games, orchestrating a seamless experience across six outstanding sporting facilities in Wagga Wagga. Their dedication and passion ensuredthattheeventsransmoothly,allowingathletestofocusongivingtheirbestperformances.
In the games’ last year in the hands of SSA, we acknowledge the efforts over three years as great hostsandlookforwardasitmovestoNorthernNSW.
Athletes and coaches were accommodated in two exceptional motels, the Wagga Wagga RSL Motel and the Best Western Ambassador Inn. The comfortable lodging provided a sanctuary for participants to relax and rejuvenate between intense competition schedules, contributing to the overall positive experienceoftheevent.
SportsProgramManager,AlleyPritchardsharedherexperienceoftheweekend.
It is always a delight to witness our athletes showcase their talents, and the recent Academy Games was no exception.
The passion and commitment demonstrated by our athletes throughout the three days of competition is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration to all. However, what truly stands out at the Academy Games is the camaraderie and bonds formed off the field.
From the lengthy bus rides to the early morning starts, and the camaraderie fostered in our simulated 'athlete village,' our athletes forged lasting memories.
They rallied behind each other, cheering on their teammates as they faced tough competition from across New South Wales.
I hope our athletes take time to reflect on the experiences Wagga offered them and carry these invaluable lessons into the next stage of their careers, both on and off the field.
The 2024 Regional Academy Games in Wagga Wagga served as a testament to the talent and dedicationofyoungathletesfromtheSouthWestSydneyAcademyofSport.
Their outstanding performances, coupled with dedicated coaches' support and the host city's hospitality,madethiseventmemorableandrewardingforallinvolved.
Congratulations to all participating athletes for their achievements and sportsmanship at this prestigiousevent.
Following three years at Wagga Wagga, we now look ahead to April 2025, with the Northern Inland Academy of Sport securing the rights to host the 2025, 2026 and 2027 editions of the Regional AcademyGamesinTamworth.
The Academy would like to shout out and recognise Kellanova, South City Quality Meats Wagga Wagga, and Wagga Fruit Supply, who all assisted the Academy by providing donated or significantly discounted cereal, meat, fruit and vegetables in helping us feed our over 120 athletes and 45 coach and support staff during the ClubsNSW Your Local Club Regional Academy Games.
Along with the Wagga RSL Hotel and Best Western The Ambassador, we thank you for your support during the past three editions of the Games, and will miss you as we head to Tamworth for 2025, 26 & 27.
The ‘Games Wrap Up
The UAA Insurance Basketball teams left a significant impact at the Academy Games, demonstrating remarkableresilienceanddeterminationinthefaceofstrongcompetition.
The Boys' team fought hard in each game, securing a commendable 4th place in Pool A, soundly defeating the Northern Inland Academy of Sport, after hard fought losses to the Central Coast, HunterandSouthernSportsAcademies.
The Boys showing great improvement and team cohesion throughout the tournament. Unfortunately they were unable to participate in the crossover playoff for a top-eight finish due to BNSW Metro Leaguecommitments,resultinginafinalplacingof9th.
An understrength Girls' team were able to compete after securing the support of four girls from the Scorers Academy in Canberra adding to our ever enthusiastic squad of five. After calling into Yass on the way to Wagga Wagga, the new-look team was formed, with all girls meeting their team mates for thefirsttime.
Despitetheobviouschallengesofhavingnotraining timetogether,theGirlsmanagedtogelina veryshorttime,withtheironcourtperformances characterisedbyteamworkandperseverance.
Theirteamrelationshipgrewrapidlyoverthegames, notingthatsuccessisnotjustdeterminedbyan award,butinthemanynewfriendshipsmade throughouttheweekend.
Anddespitenotabletomoveoffthebottomof theladderthroughouttheweekend,thegirls competitionwasindeedhighlightedbytheirpushing CentralCoastandNorthernInlandAcademiesall thewayintheirgames,forcingbothAcademiesto digdeeptogetoverourgirls.
Ourbasketballsquadssuccessintakingonany adversityandchallengewillgoalongwayinsetting astrongfoundationforfuturecompetitionsand showcasingthepotentialforgrowthandfurther achievementsinupcomingyears.
Basketball
The 'Games Wrap Up
Our Campbelltown Golf Club Golfers were a standout success, marked by individual and team accomplishments that showcased our athletes' growingdominanceinthesport.
With two seperate formats taking place over the Games weekend, athletes started by contesting a 36-hole Strokeplay tournament over Friday and Saturday, at the picturesque Wagga Wagga CountryClub.
Lucy Bowyer’s victory as the Girls Nett Winner and Priya Singh’s impressive performance as Runner Up, highlighted their personal skill and dedication, over the two-day's of intense individualcompetition.
Following on from the individual tournament, Academies best scores were tabled to provide a Team'sMatchplayevent,acrossthreedivisions.
Our Academy finished being placed in Division 3 alongside the Central Coast and Northern Inland Academies.
Theteam's2ndplacefinishinDivision3 reflecting the great culture that Head Coach Scott Martyn and Apprentice Coach Zackie Kadir, have constructed over the program year, with our athletes ability to over come what was challengingcourse.
Combined with tough individual scores amongst a very competitive field, the athletes ability to then combine as a team and score a credible result for the Academy, speaks volumes of each individuals ability overcome adversity within the game they love.
The 'Games Wrap Up
The Club Menangle Hockey squad demonstrated immense resilience and sportsmanship, with both sides heading to Wagga Wagga down on troops, and facing an assortmentofverytoughon-fieldcompetition.
Despite the challenges they faced, the Boys' team narrowly missed the semi final berth with a strong 5th place finish. Early wins against Northern Inland and Central Coast Academies, along with a draw against Illawarra had the Boys well and truly placed heading into Saturdayevening.
However losses to hosts, and eventual winners Southern and Sydney Metro, along with a heart breaking 1-0 loss to grand finalists Hunter Academy on Sunday morning kept our boys out of the finals with a record of 2 wins, 4 very close losses, and a draw from their seven games.
Our Girls team faced a similar challenge to our Girls Basketball team with a number of athletes unavailable, and as a result joined forces with the North Coast Academy of Sport. Despite these challenges, the Girls fought hard, finishingadetermined7thplace.
A narrow loss to Northern Inland to open the tournament, and a draw against Western Region the tournament highlights, with a final scorecard of 1 draw and 6 losses from their sevengames.
Jasmine Kaur was named in the Games Merit side in the Girls, as was Myron D'Souza for the Boys. The continued development of all athletes is a testament to the exceptional high quality of ourcoachingstaff.
Hockey
The 'Games Wrap Up
The Bingara Gorge Netball teams also showcased their skill and teamwork with impressivefinishesintheirrespectivepools.
The Academy's 1st team finished a well earned 3rd place in Pool A. After taking out wins against Illawarra, North Coast, Hunter and Sydney Metro Yellow, our girls were narrowly defeated by Western Sydney and the Sydney NetballAcademyintheirfinaltwogamesofthe tournament, finishing with a commendable 4-2 recordoverall.
TheAcademy's2ndteamfinishedtiedfor7thin Pool B, which in its own right is an incredible achievement having played four Academies "First” teams, whilst allowing a number of Girls to trial new positions on the court, that they maynothavepreviouslybeenfamiliarwith.
AdrawwiththehostSouthernSportsAcademy first team was a highlight of the tournament, withclosegamesagainstHunter2,SydneyRed and Western Sydney 2, adding to the fiercenessofthecompetition.
The tournaments Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards were presented to Saige Tautalafua and Rowina Mataiti, highlighting not just their individual performances, but also reflecting in the high level of leadership, play and dedication.
A special congratulations is also due to our Netball Umpires Lexi Vardy, Adelaide Bell, and Karlia Warwick, whose expertise and control over the court played a crucial role in facilitatingafairandcompetitiveenvironment.
The 'Games Wrap Up
Our SIMEC Tahmoor Coking Coal Triathlon squad,saweveryathleteshowcaseexceptional athleticism and endurance, at this year’s AcademyGames.
In the A Final, Joshua Persen secured 5th place, while Zoe Bruce finished 5th in the B Final. The Junior Mixed Team Relay comprising ZoeBruce,WillRobinson,HallePotter,andSam Bayada finished 3rd, while the Youth Team Relay teams secured 5th and 7th places respectively.
Throughout the event, several noteworthy occurrences shaped the course of competitions. Races faced a one-hour delay on both days duetothesignificantvariancebetweencoldair andwatertemperatures.
Notably, Alyssa, Phoenix, Matt, and Lachlan all attained their draft legal license this year, allowing them to compete at a higher level. However, an unexpected turn of events unfolded during the heats on Saturday morning, where athletes' times determined their placementinthesubsequentafternoonfinals.
Unfortunately, Lachlan and several other athletes in his heat miscounted their laps, resultinginautomaticplacementintheCfinal.
Despite this setback, Zoe's team delivered an impressive performance, clinching 3rd place in theJuniorRelayonSundaymorning.
Throughout the Academy Games weekend, coaches Caitlin, Harry, Bodhi, Cody, and Charlotte expressed immense pride in the squad'sperformancesandgrowth.
Triathlon
The 'Games Wrap Up
Our SVSR Minicrane Hire Volleyball teams continued their streak of triumphs, dominating the courts withtheBoysandGirls1stteamseachtakingouttheGoldMedalintheirrespectivecompetitions.
This repeated success for the third consecutive year in the Boys, and back-to-back Gold's for the Girls highlights the effective coaching and athlete dedication shown by the squad, and the sustained successtheVolleyballprogrampresentlyenjoys.
The Boys 1st team enjoying a clear run with straight-sets wins against Western Sydney and Illawarra Academies 1st teams, as well as North Coast Academies 2nd team, before proceeding on a finals demolition (again in straight sets) over Hunter and North Coast's 1st team to take out the Grand Final forathirdstraightyear.
The Girls 1st team set up their tournament run in similar fashion to the Boys with wins over Illawarra, North Coast's 2nd team, and Western Sydney's 1st team, before heading to the finals against a very familiaropponent.
Both Boys and Girls 1sts teams defeating the respective North Coast Academy teams in the Grand Final, with the Boys 2nd team also showing strong performances, securing 5th after a highly enthusiasticwinagainstWesternSydney's2ndteamandnear-upsetresultagainstNorthCoast'sand HunterAcademies1stteams.
The Girls 2nd team held the fate of the program in their hands, and in doing so ensured that South West wasrepresentedintheGrandFinal.
Despite falling narrowly to the Girls 1st team in the Semi Final, they regrouped quickly, just missing out on the Bronze medal to a fast finishing Western Sydney 1st team, to finish the tournament in a very commendable4th.
These results underscore the depth of talent within the academy, and our greater South West Sydney region.
Each Academy Games squad carries with them a unique characteristic, and Volleyball sure know how to ‘level up’ both on the court, as well as the supporters stands, with music pumping and chants making their debut, the atmosphere in Bolton Park IndoorStadiumcouldnothavebeenmoreexciting.
Volleyball
Campbelltown Celebrates Academy's Home
The Campbelltown Civic Reception, held in late May, and hosted by Deputy Mayor, Cr Masud Khalil took placetohonourlocalathletesfromtheSouthWestSydneyAcademyofSport.
Thisprestigiousevent,hostedbyCampbelltownCityCouncilprovidestheopportunitytonotonlyrecognise the regions local athletes within the Academy, but also the invaluable support provided by the Campbelltown City Council in dedicating resources to ensure that local talented athletes receive the best opportunitiesfortheirdevelopment.
The evening was a testament to the commitment and hard work of all, Campbelltown based Athletes, Parents, Coaches and Support Staff involved in the Academy's numerous high performance sport and athletesupportprograms.Everysportprogramundertheacademy'sbannerwasacknowledged,alongside thededicationandexpertiseofcoachesandsupportstaff.
The annual event highlighted Council’s crucial role in nurturing the sporting talents of the region, providing a robust platform for future sports stars toshine.
One of the highlights of the evening started as athletes walked into the venue, with Deniel Vermeulen (dubbed the Academy's fastest athlete on the evening) bringing her go-kart to display outsidethereception.
Spotting the Academy logo on the kart, those present were able to quickly identify the diverse range of sports within the Academy, albeit a little surprised of the presence of a racing go-kart on show,attheCampbelltownArtsCentre.
Picture: Wests Future Stars Kart-Racer Deniel Vermulan with her Kart at the Campbelltown Civic Reception
Following on from the traditional array of speeches and the presentation of local Campbelltown athletes, the evening was truly highlighted by the recounting of journeys from the 2023-24 sport program year, which was broughttolifethroughanengagingathleteand coachinterviewpanel.
The panel, comprising of Indianna Wilson (Olympic Weightlifting) and Deniel Vermeulen (Kart Racing) from Wests Future Stars athletes, Softball Assistant Coach Jasmine Taylor, plus Volleyball sensation Heromee Tibayan, they together shared their unique experiences and insights, offering a glimpse into the dedication and perseverance required to excel in their respectivesports.
The reception concluded on a high note with Heromee Tibayan delivering an athlete response speech. Heromee’s words resonated with pride and appreciation, embodying the spirit of the academy and its athletes. Her speech highlighted the transformative impact of the support from Campbelltown City Council andthebroaderlocalcommunity.
Through the combined efforts of the council, coaches, support staff, and the athletes themselves, the future of local sports talent in SouthWestSydneylooksexceptionallybright.
Photos:
Page Opposite: Top to Bottom: Left to Right: (with Deputy Mayor Masud Khalil and SWSAS Chairperson Peter Campbell; AFLW, Basketball, BMX, Hockey, Indigenous Athlete Program, Netball & Netball Umpires, Softball, Triathlon.
This Page: Top to Bottom: Volleyball, Wests Future Stars, Coach and Support Staff, and the Athlete Panel, with Sport Services Coordinator Catarina Di Ramio
Volunteers Recognised for Key Contributions
Recently, the Academy has been honoured to have a number of our volunteer coach and support staff recognisedfortheircontributionandservicetosportwithintheSouthWestSydneyregion.
These incredible volunteers were nominated by the Academy, and their sporting peers in recognition of thetime,commitmentandserviceprovidedwithintheirAcademysportprograms.
Held at Wests Leagues Club in late May, as a part of National Volunteer Week, the Wests Group Macarthur Sports Committee hosted an incredible night where it presented the 2024 Wests Sports VolunteeroftheYearAwards.
With over 100 nominations received, the Academy is proud to congratulate Academy Softball Assistant Coach Jasmine Taylor (pictured above), and AFLW Head Coach Ben Robinson as finalists for the Youth Volunteer and Volunteer of the Year awards respectively. Additionally, Academy chairperson Peter Campbell,wasrecognisedforhis20+yearsvolunteerserviceontheBoardoftheAcademy.
It was also noted on the evening that a significant number of additional Academy volunteers were nominated by their sporting clubs at the event, including Lexi Vardy (Netball Umpire) and Marsheal Walker(SoftballAssistantCoach).
Not to be out done, the SportNSW Community Sport Awards finalists have been announced, with AcademyVolleyballapprenticecoachVasilijaSimonovicbeingnamedaFinalistfortheYoungCommunity Coach of the Year, and BMX program coordinator Cara Wilde named as a Finalist in the Community CoachoftheYearcategory.
WewishboththebestofluckattheSportNSWCommunitySportAwardseveningtobeheldinJune.
You are the Athlete, You are Responsible
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport had the privilege of hosting a highly insightful lecture by Sport IntegrityAustraliaattheWesternSydneyUniversityCampbelltownCampus,onthetopicofSportIntegrity andAnti-Doping.
This event was a significant part of Sport Integrity Australia's mission to uphold and promote integrity withinthesportingcommunity.Thelecture,aimedtoeducateandinformourathletes,parents,coachesand support staff about the critical importance of integrity in sport. Which brought together athletes from various disciplines, their dedicated coaches, and sports administrators, providing them with essential knowledge and tools to navigate the complex landscape of modern sport, while maintaining the highest ethicalstandards.
Senior Education Officer Nathan Williamson, who is also a leading AFL Umpire, was the evenings keynote speaker. Williamson's extensive experience in sports integrity education was evident in his engaging and informativepresentation.
He focused on the latest developments in anti-doping measures, providing in-depth insights into current drugtestingtechnologies,thelegalimplicationsofdoping,andtheethicalconsiderationsthatathletesmust be aware of, and how the athlete’s position within the Academy fits in with the National Integrity Framework, and various sports drug testing pools. Williamson also addressed the prevention of matchfixing and corruption in sport, detailing the mechanisms used to detect and combat these activities, and highlightedthecrucialrolethatathletesandcoachesplayinmaintainingtransparencyandfairness.
The lecture emphasised the importance of continuous education and awareness, sharing information about various Sport Integrity Australia's initiatives aimed at educating young athletes on the risks and consequences of unethical behaviour, whilst reinforcing the core message - “You are the Athlete, You are Responsible”.
One of the key practical aspects discussed was how to check for illegal substances using the Sport IntegrityAustraliaapp,whichallowsathletestoverifysubstancesandsupplementsquicklyandefficiently.
Williamson taught participants what to look for in supplements to ensure they are free from banned substances, and how to properly handle Therapeutic Use Exemption's (TUE), which are criticalforathletesneedingtousemedicationsthat containprohibitedsubstances.
Sport Integrity awareness is a pivotal component of the education program for the South West Sydney Academy of Sport athletes, in fostering a culture of integrity. By addressing critical issues such as anti-doping, match-fixing, and the importance of mental health support, the event provided a comprehensive approach to sports integrity.
The positive reception and planned future initiatives underscore the importance of such events in nurturing ethical athletes who embody the true spirit of sport. We encourage our athletes and sports administrators to stay engaged with SportIntegrityAustralia'sprogramsandinitiatives. Let's continue to work together to promote and maintainintegrityinalloursportingendeavours.
CALLING ALL WSU SPORTS SCIENCE STUDENTS
INTERNSHIP
THE SOUTH WEST SYDNEY ACADEMY OF SPORT
Work directly with pre-elite athletes aged between 12-21 years and experienced coaches gaining practical skills in performance analysis, strength and conditioning and athlete wellbeing curriculums.
Access local facilities and equipment that will enhance your learning and professional growth.
Receive personalised guidance from an industry supervisor dedicated to helping you succeed in the competitive world of sports science.
Build valuable connections with professionals and organisations in the sports industry.
EOI’s Close on 21st June, 2024
With interviews to follow With interviews to follow
FOLLOW THE QR CODE TO APPLY NOW
The 2024 Indigenous Talent Identification Day will offer Indigenous athletes, including those with disabilities, from across the Academy region a unique chance to showcase their skills across various sports. Participants will engage in education and sport science testing in a high-performance setting, with the potential to join the academy
Indoor Sports Stadium 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM 9 Redfern Road, Minto New South Wales, 2566
Liverpool Recognises Academy Talent
HostedattheelegantCasulaPowerhouseArtsCentreinearlyJune,LiverpoolCityCouncilcelebrated its annualMayoralReception theoutstandingachievementsofathletes,coaches,andsupportstafffromthe SouthWestSydneyAcademyofSport.
Highlighting their dedication, hard work, and contributions to the local sporting community, the reception was a testament to the strong partnership between the Academy and foundation partner, the Liverpool City Council. The reception provided a platform to honour the exceptional performances of our athletes across various sports, reinforcing our shared commitment to fostering athletic excellence and community engagement.
These young athletes have not only demonstrated remarkable talent and determination but have also embodied the values of sportsmanship, perseverance, and integrity. The athletes achievements over the past year have brought pride to the Academy and inspired their peers to strive for excellence. The Civic Reception was led by council's Deputy Mayor Fiona McNaught, who, along with Cllr Rhodes praised the workoftheAcademy,bothformallyandinformally.
A highlight of the event was the athlete panel consisting of Luke Powell (Wests Future Star - Snow Skiing and Kart Racing), brothers Daniel and Thomas Kitsoukilias (Hockey), and Gabriella Arena (Netball) being interviewed by Academy Sport Operations Manager,StephenCraig.
The panel provided insights into their respective sports, their journeys, and the challenges they have faced. Gabriella Arena (Pictured Right), who also presented the athlete response speech, eloquently captured the spirit of the evening and the collective aspirationsoftheathletes.
Academy CEO Gerry Knights said, “Our coaches and volunteers play an indispensable role in the success of the Academy, with their dedication to training, mentoring, and support ofathletesthebackboneofourachievements.”,
The Liverpool Civic Reception was an excellent opportunity to recognise their tireless efforts and invaluable contributions to the Academy, withDeputyMayorMcNaughtprovidingspecial recognition to our volunteers who have gone aboveandbeyondintheirservice.
“Liverpool City Council's ongoing support enables the Academy to deliver high-quality programs that nurture athletic talent and promote community engagement, and we thank them for their commitment to the Academy”, expressedKnights.
The Reception also provided the Academy the opportunity to highlight the importance of community involvement in the success of our Academy, by recognising local Liverpool business and Volleyball program SVSR Mini Crane Hire, who was represented on the eveningbyDirectorKylieRidding.
“Together, through the support of Council and local partners, we can continue to foster a vibrant sporting community and help our athletes reach new heights", expressed Ridding.
Photos:
Page Opposite: Top to Bottom: Left to Right: (with Deputy Mayor Fiona McNaught and SWSAS Chairperson Peter Campbell; Basketball, AFLW, Netball, hockey, Volleyball (with SVSR Mini Crane Hire Director Kylie Ridding, Softball, Wests Future Stars and QUBE Coach and Support Staff.
This Page: Top to Bottom: The Athlete Interview Panel, Guests in attendance, SVSR Mini Crane Hire Director Kylie Ridding with Volleyball athlete Amelie Alnimer and Members of the Academy Board present at the Mayoral Reception.
ACADEMY RECIPIENT OF LOCAL SPORTS DEFIBRILLATOR GRANT
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport is pleased to announce it is a recipient of the 202324 NSW Government Local Sport Defibrillator GrantProgram.
The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program is aimed at improving availability and access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in community sporting and recreational facilities, for useinemergenciesinvolvingcardiacarrest.
AnAEDisadevicethatisusedinconjunctionwith Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and delivers a controlled shock to an individual experiencing cardiac arrest, increasing their chancesofsurvival.
The NSW Government provided $500,000 in grantstoeligiblesportingclubsandfacilityowners through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Programin2023/24.
Having received this grant, the Academy now has a brand new portable AED, provide by St Johns Australia,whichaddsacrucialpieceofequipmenttotheAcademy'sfirstaidcapabilities.
ThedefibrillatorprovidestheAcademyadditionalsecurityinprovidingtrainingsessionsatvenueswhere there either may not be an AED on site, or access to the local clubhouse during Academy training times, thatourathletes,coachandsupportstaffwillhaveapieceofessentiallylife-savingequipmentavailable duringtrainingsessionsthatareidentifiedathavingahigherriskofahealthemergency.
With the Academy conducting high-intensity fitness drills as a part of its sport science and functional movementscreeningtests,athletescanoftenbesubjectedtoahighleveloffitnessstress,thattheymay nothavebeensubjectedtobefore.
Yetwhilsttheseenvironmentsareverycloselymonitoredbyprofessionalsandserviceproviders,thereis anextremelysmallriskthatayoungathlete,giventheiryouth,(orcoachandsupportstaff),mayhavean undiagnosed health matter. Even though a small risk, it was one the Academy took the opportunity to address and be prepared, just in case. As is the opportunity to better prepare and educate Academy athletesoftheproperuseandbenefitsofanAEDwithinsportsfirstaidtraining.
When not out in the field, the AED will be located at the Academy's administration centre in Queen St, Campbelltown, providing staff and the local community additional security that should it be required, helpisnotfaraway.
3X3 TALENT SHOWCASED AT ACADEMY CORPORATE CUP
The South West Sydney Academy of Sport celebrated a remarkable day of athletic prowess and community spirit with the inaugural 3x3 Basketball Corporate Cup, held at the Thomas HassallAnglicanCollegeinlateApril.
This exciting event drew many of the region's best undiscovered talents out of the corporate world andontothecourts,deliveringathrillingshowcase ofskill,teamwork,andsportsmanship.
Following the foresight and support from Gold event partner Komatsu Australia, who themselves fielded three teams, the 3x3 Komatsu Corporate Cup took place with a strong field of competing teams.
The nature of the event, and indeed 3x3 basketball itself saw athletes from the Academy's Sharp EIT 3x3 Basketball program able to join in the competition, offering them a valuable opportunity to test their skills honed throughout theprogramyear.
“The interaction between corporate teams and academy athletes fostered a unique environment of learning and competition, highlighting the strength and potential of South West Sydney's sporting community” said Sport Operations Manager Stephen Craig, who also found himself behindthewhistleinanumberofgames.
"We had a great team of officials assist us on the day, including athletes from within our programs who stepped up to referee and promote 3x3 basketball”addedCraig.
Komatsu Australia indeed played a pivotal role as a primary partner, generously contributing to the event's success. Their support underscoring the importance of community engagement and investmentinlocaltalentdevelopment.
With the day commencing over a hot bacon and egg roll and coffee, provided by Thomas Hassall AnglicanCollege,formerAustralian3x3AsianCup championship and NBL player Tim Coenraad took each team through a skills clinic, with many ‘oooh ‘and ‘aaah’ moments as the differences between 3x3and"normal”basketballbecameclearer.
Once the clinic concluded, it was straight into action, with tight and intense competition across 31 games in just three hours,withstandoutperformancesleading tothefollowingdivisionfinals:
“Elite” Division: Luke Photography and VideodftSouthWestAllStarz
“Social” Division: Team Wests League ClubAdftKomatsuAustralia
Invitational Junior Boys: SWSAS UAA WhitedftSWSASSharpEITWhite
Invitational Junior Girls: Pacifika Ballerz2dftPacifikaBallerz1
The Girls' final, doubling as the last game oftheevent,wasparticularlyexhilarating, with both teams delivering a nail-biting performance, going into overtime, which, in 3x3 Basketball, continues until a team leadsbytwopoints.
“Normally3x3games,playedonjustahalf acourt,lasttenminutes.Itwasonlyfitting that the final game of the event went to overtime, lasting an incredible twenty-five minutes until a winner emerged” said Craig, who is already looking forward to seeing the Corporate Cup establish itself ontheAcademy'sannualeventscalendar.
CEO, Gerry Knights, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "The inaugural Corporate Cup has been a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to come together, engage with our athletes, and enjoy a day of friendly competition. It's events like these that strengthen our community and provide a platform for showcasing the incredible talentwehaveinSouthWestSydney."
The success of the Corporate Cup promisestomakeitastapleintheSWSAS calendar,withplansalreadyunderwayfor nextyear'sevent.
TheAcademyprogramisanexcellentkickstartinto StrengthandConditioningbeyondtheirsport.Though if an athlete is wanting to excel in their chosen sport,balancingthedemandsofparticipatinginthe sport should be supplemented with ongoing S&C training. S&C training builds strength, power, endurance, agility and capacity which an athlete thencanapplythatintheirsporttobecomebetter.
AnyS&Cprogramwillneedtobeadapteddepending upongoalsandseason.Fitnessandhealthareoneof those things that you keep paying your dues to maintainandmoveforward.
Whatisthemostexcitingaspectaboutthepartnershipbetween SWSASandFitClinic?
SeeingboththedevelopmentandexpansionoftheAcademy programforathletestogainaccesstoelitelevelcoaches andathleteswhohavedoneitallbeforethem.Theyhelp coachandguidethenextgeneration.
It'sanopportunitytoaccessthislevelofsupporttheymay nothaveotherwise.
TheAcademyhasalsobuiltitselfasacommunitypillar acrosstheSouthWestwithathletepathwayswherever theathletewantstogo.
It'sexcitingtobeapartofthis,beinginvolvedinand seeinghowmanyoftheathletestaketheseopportunities andapplyitwithagreatattitude,togoasfaraspossible.
Can you share a success story or notable achievement of a team from the academy that has participatedinyourstrengthandconditioningprogram
I can't pick out just one singular achievement as it's always a team effort, and the most important part of success is the athlete absorbing all the learnings in the program. But we've had multiple athletes being able to complete on the international stage. And it's always thrilling to see.
Athletes,parents,coachandsupportstaffare invitedtocompleteanevaluationsurveyonthe 2023-2024AcademySportprograms,and providetheirinputontheAcademy'sfuture direction.
Thesurveywillremainopenuntil30June2024, withresultstobeusedasanimportantpartof theAcademy’sstrategicreviewintoourmany sportprograms,aswellasoperationaland organisationalstrategicplansforourfuture.
Alumni Capture Pacific Nations Prize
A huge congratulations to our Academy Alumni Netball coaching staff Jacqua Pori-Makea-Simpson who hascoachedTongaNetballtoanincrediblefinishatthisyearsPacificNetballSeries,heldinBrisbaneearly June.
The Tongan 'Tala’ backed up an incredible run throughout the tournament, including a come-from-behind 64-63 win over Fiji in the rounds, to capture a fourth-straight Pacific Netball Series Championship, with a moredominant72-58displayagainstFijiintheGrandFinal.
Alongside Jacqua is our Bingara Gorge Netball program Coach Mentor and current member of the Academy’s Coach and Technical Advisory Group, Van Nguyen, who as head physio for Tonga, had the taskofkeepingtheteamrecoveredandreadytogoforeachmatch.
The Series win marking another crucial step towards Tonga returning to Netball's World Cup, where they debutedinSouthAfricalastyear,andarecurrentlyranked8thintheWorld.
Oncourt,alumniNetballathlete,LeislHopoatemadeherdebutwiththeTonganNationalteam,gainingan incredible and valuable experience within her Netball journey, and with Sydney hosting the Netball World Cupin2027,wehavenodoubtwemaygettoseealotmoreofLeislandtheTalaon-courtintheverynear future.
A great feature of this year's Pacific Netball Series was the inclusion of a First Nations team, with yet anotherAcademyalumniNetballathlete,CourtneyJonesbeingselectedtocompetefortheBlackSwans.
The continued success of representative selections into not just Australian, but International teams by Academy alumni Netball athletes in recent years continues to gives testament to the long-term development journey undertaken by athletes within the netball program since its inception within Regional Academies over twenty years ago, and with Netball making a strong push for inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Games, we remain excited by the endless possibilities available for our athletes now, and in the near future.
Our Wonderful Athlete Panel
SPORT ADMINISTRATION OFFICER
An important role supporting the growth of the Academy Experience in office administration, events, media and communication or within the fitness industry is highly desirable.
Opportunity to work within sports high performance pathways within the local South West Sydney region
CLOSES 21 JUNE 2024
email your CV and cover letter to hr@swsas.org.au
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. Act Now, by contacting the Academy for further information and, commence the
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