NIAS officials are delighted after a fine performance at the Academy Games on the Central Coast last weekend.
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The South Tamworth Bowling Club academy squad featured a record 115 athletes and took part in golf, rugby sevens, hockey, basketball and netball.
The three-day competition featured teams from all parts of the state and represents the pinnacle of the program for a number of athletes.
NIAS teams prevailed in two events, taking home gold medals.
The boys’ rugby sevens outfit claimed the inaugural championship on the back of an impressive campaign.
The boys’ basketball team made it back-to-back titles after repeating the deeds of 12 months ago.
NIAS had fruitful fortunes on the court, finishing runner-up in the girls division.
All-Star Medals were awarded to Anika Earsman, Ryan Bath and Will Meyers.
The honour is voted upon by other teams for the best players across the duration of the tournament.
On the hockey field, NIAS collected a bronze medal in the girls event.
The team featured Ellynie Cameron, named the most valuable player on the strength of her sterling performances throughout the three-day event.
The boys finished fourth overall, but also provided the player of the tournament.
Calvin Farmilo took out the most valuable player award.
Bronze was also won by the members of the girls rugby sevens team.
Like the boys, this event was the inaugural staging of the format after 15-a-side was played in the past.
The NIAS golf squad provided some impressive performances.
Tom Gill was the boys’ scratch and nett winner after rounds of 78 and 70.
Teammate Toby Cooper had led the tournament at the end of day one, but was overtaken by Gill along the way.
Netball is one of the most hotly-contested sports at the Academy Games, with NIAS sending down two squads to the tournament.
Despite not coming home with medals, NIAS did get two players selected in merit squads announced at the end of the carnival.
Gunnedah rising star Eliza Perkins was included in the division one team and Isla Folpp earned her spot in the division two side.
NIAS chief executive James Cooper said the results were the testament to hard work.
“It was a really good weekend to have our teams perform so well against a couple of academies from the Sydney area, Newcastle and Wollongong,” he said.
“There were a number of great efforts.
“It was the biggest touring party we’ve sent away and our strong results are a credit to the coaches and athletes on the respective teams.”
