Matilda, Sophie and Katelyn all excel in whichever endeavour they attempt, but on Australia Day it was Matilda who was firmly in the spotlight.
She was named Young Sportsperson of the Year after a stellar year in athletics.
“As a passionate and dedicated sportsperson, she has achieved exceptional sporting success throughout 2022,” Matilda’s nomination read.
“Matilda has represented herself, Mathoura Public School, Deniliquin & District and Riverina at multiple district, regional and state sporting events in a range of athletic styles, achieving many victories and accolades in the process.
“Throughout the year, she competed at a state level in both cross country and athletics. This is the highest level of competition in the New South Wales PSSA sporting championships.
“At these events, Matilda displayed both impeccable sportsmanship and sporting prowess, finishing strongly in her events.”
Further to this, and in recognition of her contribution to the sport of athletics, Matilda was selected to recite the competitors’ oath at the 2022 NSW PSSA Athletics Championship Opening Ceremony.
Matilda had an incredibly successful journey to get her to these state events, competing in swimming and athletics at Mathoura Public School carnivals and being awarded age champion at several cross country events across the region.
“She was also awarded age champion at Deniliquin & District Athletics Carnival and set two local records, both in the 1500m,” her nomination highlighted.
“Matilda won the Riverina Cross Country Championships held in Gundagai and qualified for four separate athletics events at the Riverina level which led her to Sydney to compete in three events in the state competition.
“She was awarded the 11 year-old girls age champion at the Finley Little Athletics Carnival and was the Mathoura Public School’s Sportsperson of the Year.
“In short, if there has been an opportunity for Matilda to compete and succeed in a range of sporting disciplines, she has done so with dedication, commitment and a phenomenal level of athleticism.
“Matilda is not only a talented sportsperson but she also continually displays outstanding sportsmanship and humility.
“She is always seen encouraging her peers and congratulating other competitors.
“Matilda is clearly an outstanding member of the local community and has demonstrated dedication and commitment to her sports.”
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