The region’s best and brightest sporting talent was recognised at the Gippsland Sports Academy 2017 Awards Evening.
Now in its 21st year, the Gippsland Sports Academy champions outstanding athletes from across its multi-disciplinary programs in tennis, netball, volleyball, gymnastics, golf, swimming and clay target shooting.
Molly Van Berkel took out the David Drane Award for gymnastics which recognises an athlete who has shown consistent improvement in their sport.
At the 2017 Gippsland Championships Van Berkel placed first on beam and floor, second on bars and fourth on vault.
Chloe Huizer claimed the same title for her work on the netball court after an outstanding year of individual improvement while Ben Grumley took out the tennis gong.
The Darrell White Special Achievement Award for 2017 was presented to netballer Madelaine Galea, who captained the Gippsland League 17-and-under team to a grand final win at the Eastern Zone Premier Netball Competition.
Traralgon swimmer Ruby Storm was recognised for an outstanding year in the pool in multi-class swimming with the Rising Star Award.
In other awards presented on the night, Jackie Madden took out the Phil Shelley Sports Development Award for her work as part of the swimming program.
“To do what we do is absolutely amazing, and this is such an honour,” Madden said.
“From working with a six-year-old up to a 50-plus-year-old, it’s an absolute honour to be involved with swimming in this district.”
