SPORT is big business as far as Steve McMillan is concerned.
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The Armidale Sports Council chairman believes sport has contributed more than $14.5 million to the Armidale economy so far this year.
“Since 2007, sport has brought an estimated $150 million to the region,” McMillan said.
The president also believes the juniors are seeing other locals succeed in the top echelons of their chosen sports which gives the young athletes the confidence to know that it is possible.
And that makes tomorrow night’s Armidale Sports Awards at Armidale Bowling Club a big night.
McMillan said the popular awards night would be brimming with young talent and would pay homage to some of those talented juniors.
Tao Grieves is just one of a number of multi-sport junior stars nominated.
Grieves picked up the best batting average at the Armidale U12 cricket carnival, as well as excelling at hockey, indoor hockey and football, where he plays first grade for Demon Knights in the Premier League.
He is part of the Northern Inland squad as well as a Country development squad.
Jessica Prince is hoping to be recognised for a softball record.
The catcher and big hitter has been an integral part of the North West side from Year five to Year 12.
“She is knee high to a grasshopper but can smack them out of the park,” McMillan said.
Polocross player Nick Grills and his horse Bo Derek have been recognised on the national stage after NSW won the U16 title in Darwin.
Bo Derek was named best horse and is named after the former model-actress because of her good looks.
“There are so many kids worth a mention,” McMillan said.
“I think the local facilities have something to do with it as well. They are the best in northern NSW.”
The Armidale Sports Awards begin at 6.30pm tomorrow at the Armidale Bowling Club with special guest Youcef Abdi.