The Northern Inland Academy of Sport has run its first round of trials.
The turn out for the AFL in Inverell was so impressive that they’ve had to open a second round of trials with record numbers turning up.
“It was terrific to see so many kids turn up.
“There was plenty of talent on display and we can’t wait to get this program underway,” NIAS Inverell RSM AFL head coach Alan Martin said.
“There was plenty of talent on display and we can’t wait to get this program underway,”
- NIAS Inverell RSM AFL head coach Alan Martin
Attention then turned to the “Tamworth City Toyota” basketball trials over the weekend at the Sports Dome in Tamworth.
Tamworth has a strong history in basketball with the Thunderbolts performing so well in the State League and Nick Kay playing so well for the Boomers and Perth Wildcats.
The NIAS female basketball team has had great results at the “Your Local Club” Academy Games, picking up silver from their past two campaigns.
“Tamworth has been historically strong in Basketball, but it is great to see some other regions putting their hands up,” Program Coordinator Greg O’Toole said.
“We’ve seen some strong performances from Quirindi over the years and those kids are starting to flow into our program as well as a few from Manilla, Gunnedah and Armidale.”
Applications are also open for the new cycling program that NIAS will run in 2019. It is combining the Mountain Bike program with Road and Track cycling.
There will be mutual educational sessions that are appropriate for all forms of riding and then the athletes will break off into their disciplines for practical practice.
Alyssa Rogan will again head up the Mountain Bike aspect of the program, while former professional cyclist Sam Spokes will be taking charge of the road and track cycling. Applications close soon.
“I’m really looking forward to giving back the experience I’ve gained to the next generation of cyclists.
“I’ve been helping where I can, but it is terrific to be a part of this NIAS program and being able to foster the next wave of talented riders in the region,” Spokes said.
Applications can be made on the website at www.NIAS.org.au, follow the tab to “Sporting Programs” and follow the links or contact NIAS at 67662526 or niasoffice@nias.org.au
ATHLETE PROFILE: Cooper Wilkinson
Sport:
Tennis
What town or city are you from?
Gunnedah
How long have you been involved with NIAS?
2018 was my third year in the NIAS Tennis program
What age are you?
I’m 14 years old
What is your sporting ambition?
To be the best player I can be both physically and mentally, and to become a highly ranked tennis player
What is your highest achievement?
I won five OJT tournaments in singles and had six wins in doubles in 2018.
I was also proud to be named the NIAS Male Athlete of the Year.
Who is your sporting hero?
Roger Federer is my favourite athlete and a true inspiration.
