Jake Hazell (centre) with some of his Tamworth Little As (from left) Nick Price, Brianna McPherson, Ashleigh Price, Emma Klase, Mitchell Henderson, coach Hazell, Bridie Martin, Grace Barry, Laura Jeffery, Kate Pianta. Photo: Geoff O’Neill 091012GOD01
JAKE Hazell was a Little A, now he’s a big A. Athlete that is.
Hazell, 19, came through the Tamworth Little Athletics ranks and while he’s too old to compete is giving something back by
coaching.
He’s already “done” his Level 2 sprints and relay coaching certificate and helping a number of younger Little As prepare for the upcoming State PSSA Athletics Championships.
“When I finished in the Little As I wanted to keep going so I came back as a coach,” Jake told The Leader on Tuesday afternoon.
Hazell, who turns 20 next week, is a wall and floor tiler by trade but also looking to start a senior club now.
He’s hoping there are other Little As out there who have completed their junior athletics careers and want to continue on with senior competition.
In the meantime he has a number of talented young athletes preparing for the State PSSA Championships.
“They’re all going well,” Hazell said.
“They’ve been training hard. I’m surprised how far they’ve come. They’ve improved tenfold and all of them are breaking records. All are running or throwing PBs.”